Macaroni And Bean Bake
A hearty baked macaroni and bean casserole with melted Cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, colorful peppers, and seasoned tomatoes, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spray a 9-inch square glass baking dish with cooking spray.
- Combine cooked macaroni, 1 1/2 cups Cheddar cheese, drained pinto beans, stewed tomatoes, and diced green and red peppers in a bowl; mix well.
- Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining Cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until heated through.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mixture before baking. You can also swap the pinto beans for black beans or kidney beans for a different flavor profile. If you're looking to add more veggies, diced zucchini or spinach would be great additions. Additionally, use a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack for a variation on the classic Cheddar flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Macaroni and Bean Bake pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve alongside grilled chicken or roasted vegetables. It also makes a great potluck dish or a comforting family dinner. Consider serving with a dollop of salsa or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni And Bean Bake contains roughly 756 calories, with 42g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (185% of the Daily Value), protein (84% of the Daily Value), and calcium (80% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1570mg per serving (68% 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 macaroni is traditional, feel free to substitute with penne, rotini, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just ensure to adjust cooking times based on the pasta type and size.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this Macaroni and Bean Bake is perfect for meal prep. Assemble it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freeze it before baking. Just remember to add extra baking time if cooking from frozen.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the macaroni mixture. You could also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking for an extra kick.
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).