Grammy Labar'S Macaronis
A hearty and flavorful baked macaroni dish featuring a savory tomato sauce, melted sharp cheese, and seasoned ground beef, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook tomato sauce, tomato juice, parsley, celery, onion, peppers, salt, and pepper; then add hamburger and cook thoroughly.
- Add sugar until the sauce tastes sweet.
- Cook noodles and cut sharp cheese into cubes.
- Place cooked noodles in a roaster pan.
- Pour the sauce over the noodles and top with cheese cubes.
- Bake at 375° to 400°F until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding some Italian seasoning or garlic powder to the sauce. If you want a healthier twist, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger. You can also use whole wheat elbow noodles for added nutrition. Adjust the sweetness by starting with a small amount of sugar, tasting as you go. This dish is versatile and pairs beautifully with Baked Lima Beans In Tomato Sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Grammy Labar's Macaronis with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings. It also pairs well with a light red wine. For an extra kick, consider serving it alongside Spicy Hash Brown Potatoes for a delightful contrast in flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the macaronis in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions; just add a splash of water to keep the noodles moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grammy Labar'S Macaronis contains roughly 102 calories, with 9g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (76% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (54% of the Daily Value), and potassium (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1878mg per serving (82% 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 pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow noodles are traditional, you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rotini. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type to achieve the desired texture.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the hamburger and add more vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. You can enhance the flavor with plant-based protein options or even lentils for added texture and nutrition.
Can I freeze the macaronis for later?
Yes, you can freeze the macaronis! Cool the dish completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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).