Eliza'S Hamburger Macaroni
A hearty, comforting dish combining seasoned ground beef with tender macaroni in a flavorful tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry hamburger or ground chuck until light brown.
- Drain and set aside.
- In boiling water, cook the macaroni until tender.
- Drain the macaroni.
- Using the same cooker, add the cooked hamburger to the macaroni.
- Pour enough tomato juice to cover the macaroni mixture completely.
- Add sugar and stir well.
- Let the mixture simmer on warm until the macaroni takes on the flavor of the tomato juice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced onions or bell peppers while frying the hamburger. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a creamy texture, stir in some shredded cheese towards the end of cooking. This dish can be customized with spices like Italian seasoning for added depth, similar to flavors found in Cheesy Real Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A slice of garlic bread pairs well, complementing the flavors of the macaroni. For a fun twist, consider topping with crushed potato chips for added crunch. This meal is also great for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave on medium power until heated through, stirring occasionally. You can also add a splash of tomato juice to prevent it from drying out during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Eliza'S Hamburger Macaroni contains roughly 18 calories, with 1g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (71% 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 whole wheat macaroni instead of regular?
Yes, whole wheat macaroni can be used for a healthier option. It will add more fiber and a nuttier flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as whole wheat pasta may require a few extra minutes to cook until tender.
What can I do if the mixture is too dry?
If the macaroni mixture seems dry, simply add more tomato juice gradually until you reach your desired consistency. Stir well to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed. This is especially helpful if you’ve made a larger batch or reheated leftovers.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the hamburger with a plant-based protein such as lentils or textured vegetable protein (TVP). Additionally, consider adding more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to enhance the dish and maintain a hearty 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).