Macaroni And Meat Sauce
A hearty and flavorful pasta dish featuring seasoned ground beef, chopped vegetables, and a rich tomato sauce, topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, it combines comforting flavors with a satisfying texture and is easily customizable to suit different tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground beef, chopped onions, and chopped green pepper together until browned; drain off excess fat.
- Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper to the cooked macaroni and beef mixture.
- Mix well and transfer to a baking dish.
- Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 15 minutes.
- Top with shredded Cheddar cheese and bake until cheese is melted and browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, or mix in some Italian sausage. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with lentils or chopped mushrooms. Adjust the herbs to your taste; fresh herbs can enhance the flavor significantly. For added creaminess, stir in a dollop of sour cream before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Macaroni and Meat Sauce with a side salad for a balanced meal. Garlic bread or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans complement the dish well. For an extra touch, sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving. This meal pairs beautifully with other hearty American recipes like Beef 'N Potato Bake.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, or microwave in 1-minute intervals until hot. You can also freeze the dish for up to 3 months; just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni And Meat Sauce contains roughly 337 calories, with 16g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (89% of the Daily Value), iron (38% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (34% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2218mg per serving (96% 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 Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, you can experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the cheese melts well for that gooey topping.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. Assemble it up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I add for extra vegetables?
Adding vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms can enhance the nutritional value of this dish. Simply sauté them with the onions and peppers before adding the meat for a delicious veggie boost.
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).