Fusilli And Chopped Meat
Fusilli and chopped meat combine in this hearty, flavorful dish featuring tender green peppers, onions, and a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for a satisfying family dinner, it offers a comforting blend of pasta and savory meat, with a hint of freshness from the vegetables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put a small amount of oil in a large frypan.
- Cook green pepper and onion until tender.
- Remove from pan and set aside.
- Cook chopped meat until browned, then drain all fat.
- Return chopped meat, green pepper, and onion to the frypan.
- Mix the two cans of tomato soup together.
- Pour the soup mixture into the frypan with the meat and vegetables, and mix well.
- Cook the fusilli pasta until al dente.
- Drain the cooked pasta.
- Return the drained pasta to the pot, add the soup mixture, and mix well.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or Italian herbs to the meat as it cooks. If you prefer a lighter dish, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the chopped meat. You can also use homemade tomato sauce instead of canned soup for a fresher taste. Remember to adjust cooking time if you use whole wheat fusilli, as it may require a few extra minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish warm with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. A side salad or garlic bread pairs beautifully with Fusilli and Chopped Meat. For a complete meal, consider serving with Vegetable Bundles to add a colorful and nutritious side. You can also customize the dish with additional vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to the pasta to prevent it from drying out. Heat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw and reheat before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fusilli And Chopped Meat contains roughly 19 calories, with 1g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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?
Absolutely! While fusilli works well for this dish, any pasta shape, such as penne or rotini, can be used. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose to ensure it's cooked to al dente.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this Fusilli and Chopped Meat recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare a large batch and portion it into individual containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just follow the storage tips to keep it fresh.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply substitute the chopped meat with a plant-based alternative like lentils or a meat substitute product. You can also enhance the flavor with spices or add more vegetables, making it a hearty and satisfying meal.
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).