Italian Macaroni
A hearty Italian-inspired beef and pasta dish featuring tender roast beef simmered in a rich tomato sauce, perfect for satisfying family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place beef roast in a large, heavy kettle with margarine or butter; brown all sides.
- Remove meat and set aside.
- Add chopped or sliced onions and thinly sliced garlic to the kettle.
- Cook slowly for 15 minutes.
- Add canned tomatoes, tomato paste, and bay leaves.
- Return the meat to the kettle.
- Cook very slowly until the sauce has a thick, oily texture, the longer the better.
- Season with salt to taste.
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
- Serve the beef with the sauce over cooked macaroni and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a cut like chuck roast, which becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked. If you're short on time, you can substitute the beef with shredded rotisserie chicken. For added depth, try incorporating fresh herbs like thyme or oregano. To enhance the sauce, a splash of red wine can be a nice touch. This recipe is similar to the flavors found in Crock-Pot Italian Roast Beef.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Italian Macaroni with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal. This dish pairs beautifully with Betty's Spaghetti Sauce for a more traditional Italian flavor. For an extra touch, sprinkle some fresh basil or parsley on top just before serving to enhance the presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Italian Macaroni can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. You can also microwave it in a covered dish, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Macaroni contains roughly 348 calories, with 9g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (53% of the Daily Value), potassium (31% of the Daily Value), and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 721mg per serving (31% 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 cheese?
Absolutely! While shredded cheese adds creaminess, you can substitute it with mozzarella for a melty texture, or use parmesan for a sharper flavor. Feel free to mix cheeses for a more complex taste.
How do I know when the beef is fully cooked?
The beef is ready when it is fork-tender and easily shreds apart. Cooking it slowly allows the flavors to develop, so aim for a simmering cook time of at least 2-3 hours. Using a meat thermometer can also help; it should register at least 145°F.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be made a day in advance. Simply prepare as directed, let it cool, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat slowly on the stovetop or in the oven. The flavors will intensify overnight, making it even more delicious!
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).