Macaroni And Ground Beef
A hearty, comforting dish combining tender macaroni with savory ground beef, tomatoes, and melted American cheese—perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the ground beef with chopped onion until browned and cooked through.
- Cook the macaroni in boiling salted water until al dente, then drain.
- Add the cooked macaroni, canned tomatoes, and grated American cheese to the beef mixture.
- Season to taste and let simmer for about 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or bell peppers while browning the beef. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef. Additionally, using whole wheat macaroni can boost the nutritional value. Experiment with different types of cheese if you want a unique twist; cheddar or mozzarella can also work well in this dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty macaroni and ground beef dish with a side salad for a balanced meal. It pairs well with garlic bread or rolls to soak up the flavorful sauce. For an added kick, consider a side of pickled vegetables or serve with a dollop of sour cream. This dish is comforting and ideal for family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat in the microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni And Ground Beef contains roughly 304 calories, with 15g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (154% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (46% of the Daily Value), and protein (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 846mg per serving (37% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the macaroni and beef mixture ahead of time. Simply cook everything and let it cool before transferring to an airtight container. When ready to serve, reheat thoroughly on the stove or in the microwave. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights.
What can I use instead of canned tomatoes?
If you prefer fresh ingredients, you can substitute canned tomatoes with about 2 cups of diced fresh tomatoes. Alternatively, crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce can work as well. Just be mindful to adjust the seasoning, as some canned tomatoes come seasoned.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, this macaroni and ground beef dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then heat in the oven or microwave until warm. This makes it perfect for meal prep.
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).