Elbow Macaroni And Chopped Meat
A hearty pasta dish featuring elbow macaroni combined with savory chopped meat, onions, red wine, and herbs, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook 8 to 11 minutes; drain.
- Heat margarine or oil in a frying pan.
- Add chopped meat and stir until lightly browned.
- Add chopped onion and cook until browned.
- Pour in red wine, beef stock, and add chopped tomato, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook over low heat for about 15 minutes, uncovering towards the end to reduce the liquid.
- Stir in chopped herbs before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream to the meat mixture before serving. You can substitute the chopped meat with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a bit more heat, add crushed red pepper flakes while cooking the onion. This dish is reminiscent of American recipes that bring comfort and flavor in every bite.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this elbow macaroni and chopped meat dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving can elevate the flavors. This dish pairs beautifully with Steve's Chili Concoction for a hearty family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or beef stock in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it in a covered dish, adding moisture to keep the pasta from drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Elbow Macaroni And Chopped Meat contains roughly 2259 calories, with 217g protein, 207g carbohydrates, and 75g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (435% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (317% of the Daily Value), and iron (222% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 pasta shape?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use other shapes like penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta shape you choose.
Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?
Yes! You can replace the chopped meat with lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based meat substitute. Additionally, ensure that the beef stock is swapped with vegetable stock to keep the dish completely vegetarian while maintaining its hearty flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just cook the macaroni fresh when you're ready to serve to ensure it stays al dente. Combine both components just before serving for the best texture.
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).