Dunbar Macaroni Pie
Dunbar Macaroni Pie is a hearty, cheesy baked pasta dish with savory beef and tomato flavors, perfect for family dinners or comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni until tender, then drain and set aside.
- Brown hamburger in a skillet, then add finely chopped onion and cook until translucent.
- Mix cooked macaroni, browned beef mixture, cheese, tomatoes, tomato juice, cooked bouillon cubes, and red pepper together.
- Transfer the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of garlic powder or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture. If you're short on cheese, a mix of cheddar and mozzarella can provide a nice texture and taste. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a leaner option.
Serving Suggestions
This Dunbar Macaroni Pie pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For an even heartier dish, serve with garlic bread or crusty rolls. A light drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can add a refreshing touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of tomato juice to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dunbar Macaroni Pie contains roughly 372 calories, with 16g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (121% of the Daily Value) and protein (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 734mg per serving (32% 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 make this macaroni pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the macaroni pie ahead of time by assembling the ingredients and storing it in the refrigerator before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly. When you're ready to bake, it may need a few extra minutes in the oven if it's cold from the fridge.
What can I substitute for beef in this recipe?
You can easily substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat alternative like lentils for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed based on the protein you choose.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! You can add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture for some heat. Additionally, serving it with hot sauce on the side allows everyone to customize their spice level.
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).