Italian Pasta And Beef
A hearty Italian-inspired pasta and beef casserole with tomato, beans, and corn, perfect for a quick, satisfying family dinner with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni as directed on the package; drain.
- Meanwhile, in a large saucepan over medium heat, brown the ground beef and chopped onion; drain excess fat.
- Stir in the cooked macaroni, condensed Italian tomato soup, undrained kidney beans, and frozen corn.
- Cook until thoroughly heated.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing garlic or bell peppers with the onion. If you prefer, swap out the kidney beans for black beans or pinto beans for a different taste. You can also use whole wheat shell macaroni for a healthier option. To enhance the dish, sprinkle some Italian herbs like oregano or basil before serving. This recipe is similar to classic Italian recipes like Pasta Fagoli.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It pairs wonderfully with Italian Meat Loaf(Microwave) or can be enjoyed on its own. For a touch of freshness, top with grated Parmesan cheese or chopped parsley before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. You may want to add a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Pasta And Beef contains roughly 351 calories, with 19g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (41% of the Daily Value), protein (39% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. At about 351 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 for this recipe?
Absolutely! While shell macaroni works well, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta package instructions for best results.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or simply using more beans and vegetables. Consider adding mushrooms or zucchini for extra flavor and texture.
Can I freeze this pasta dish?
Yes, you can freeze this dish. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm in the oven or microwave.
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).