Grandma'S Good And Easy Goop
A hearty and comforting ground beef and macaroni dish with cheesy tomato flavor, perfect for quick weeknight dinners and satisfying all ages with its rich taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger in a skillet.
- Boil the macaroni noodles until tender.
- Drain the noodles and set aside.
- Add cooked noodles, cheese packet, tomato paste, milk, and butter to the cooked hamburger.
- Stir well and simmer for 15 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic powder or onion flakes to the hamburger while browning. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger for a lighter option. If you prefer a creamier texture, add an extra splash of milk or use half-and-half instead. Adding some frozen peas or corn can also enhance the dish and provide additional nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For added flavor, serve with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese on top. You can also browse more American recipes for additional side ideas that complement the hearty nature of this goop.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to revive the creaminess.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S Good And Easy Goop contains roughly 734 calories, with 15g protein, 104g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (56% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (45% of the Daily Value), and calcium (38% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 578mg per serving (25% 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 instead of macaroni?
Yes, you can substitute macaroni with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rotini. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type, keeping an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the hamburger with plant-based ground meat or lentils for a vegetarian option. Additionally, use vegetable broth instead of milk for a dairy-free version that still tastes delicious.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. You can also sprinkle in some red pepper flakes to enhance the spice level according to your taste.
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).