Dried Beef Macaroni
Creamy dried beef macaroni combines tender pasta with savory dried beef and rich cheeses, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease a 2 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Mix all ingredients together and put into the dish.
- Refrigerate overnight.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding an extra cup of cheese or using a mix of cheeses like mozzarella and cheddar. If you don’t have dried beef, diced ham or cooked ground beef can be good substitutes. Make sure to finely chop the onion to blend seamlessly with the other ingredients. If you want to add some vegetables, frozen peas or spinach can brighten the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This Dried Beef Macaroni dish is a hearty main course that pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for balance. Consider serving it alongside crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For a comforting twist, try pairing it with Chicken With Cream Soup Marinade for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover to retain moisture, heating in short intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dried Beef Macaroni contains roughly 774 calories, with 23g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (45% of the Daily Value), iron (42% of the Daily Value), and calcium (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2408mg per serving (105% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute macaroni with other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose. The key is to cook it until al dente before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
Absolutely! You can use whole wheat macaroni for added fiber, and opt for low-fat versions of the cream soups and cheese. Adding vegetables like broccoli or zucchini can also boost the nutritional value while keeping the dish delicious.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for making ahead! After preparing the mixture, refrigerate it overnight as directed. It can also be assembled and frozen for future meals; just thaw it in the refrigerator before baking and follow the cooking instructions as usual.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).