Hamburger-Macaroni
A hearty, cheesy hamburger macaroni casserole with savory beef, tender pasta, and rich tomato flavor, perfect for family dinners and comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger in a heavy pan.
- Add chopped onion, tomato soup, milk, salt, and pepper to the pan.
- Cook the mixture for about 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes.
- Add the cubed cheese to the mixture and turn off the burner.
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions.
- Drain the macaroni well and pour into a bowl.
- Add the sauce to the macaroni and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider browning the hamburger with minced garlic or adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce. For cheese, feel free to substitute with your favorite melting variety like Monterey Jack or cheddar. If you prefer a healthier option, use whole wheat macaroni and add some frozen vegetables to the mix, making it a great option similar to *Catch-All Casserole*.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Hamburger-Macaroni hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread. For a comforting twist, consider serving it alongside *Grandma'S Hot Dish* or a slice of cornbread to soak up any extra sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hamburger-Macaroni contains roughly 463 calories, with 19g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (38% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1882mg 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 ground turkey instead of hamburger?
Yes, ground turkey is a great leaner substitute for hamburger in this recipe. It will still provide a hearty flavor while reducing the fat content. Just make sure to season it well to enhance its taste.
What can I add for extra vegetables?
You can incorporate diced bell peppers, frozen peas, or spinach into the sauce. Adding vegetables not only boosts the nutritional value but also enhances the dish's flavor and texture, making it more satisfying.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the macaroni ahead of time. Just combine them right before serving. This dish is convenient for meal prep and can be refrigerated or frozen, making it a perfect choice for busy nights.
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).