Gosh That'S Good
A hearty, cheesy beef and macaroni casserole with vegetables, perfect for comforting family dinners and those craving a savory, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet; add diced celery and onion and cook until slightly browned.
- Add tomato sauce and Velveeta cheese to the meat mixture and stir until cheese melts.
- Cook the macaroni in salted water until al dente, then drain.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the meat mixture and add canned tomatoes.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake at 250°F (120°C) for 1 hour.
- If the mixture appears dry during baking, add tomato juice to keep it moist.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or your favorite herbs to the beef mixture. If you're out of Velveeta, any creamy cheese like cream cheese or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella can work well. Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and taste. This dish is reminiscent of hearty American recipes that are perfect for family gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
This dish serves well as a comforting main course and pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it with garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up any extra sauce. For a fun twist, consider topping with crushed tortilla chips or cheese for a crunchy texture.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover to prevent drying out, heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated, adding a splash of tomato juice if necessary to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gosh That'S Good contains roughly 456 calories, with 19g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1928mg per serving (84% 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 meat in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If using turkey, consider adding a bit of olive oil to keep the dish moist, as it can be drier than beef.
What can I do if I don’t have canned tomatoes?
If you don’t have canned tomatoes, you can use fresh diced tomatoes or even a jar of salsa for added flavor. Adjust the quantity to taste, as salsa can be spicier.
Can this recipe be made in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish ahead of time, assemble it, and refrigerate before baking. Just increase the baking time slightly if cooking from cold, or bake it straight from the fridge for about 15-20 minutes longer.
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).