Macaroni And Quick Sauce
A hearty and flavorful macaroni dish with a savory tomato sauce, seasoned with oregano and Italian spices, perfect for quick family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown and drain the hamburger; set aside.
- Cook green peppers and diced onion (covered with 2 tablespoons water) until tender, stirring occasionally.
- Add tomato soup, oregano, Italian spice, dried onion, and cooked hamburger into a 2-quart pot and simmer for approximately 15 minutes.
- Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions, then drain.
- Mix cooked macaroni into the sauce and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomato soup. Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger for a lighter option. You can also mix in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added nutrition. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the macaroni and quick sauce hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley. It pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad, such as the California Salad (Makes 6 To 8 Servings). For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside a simple green vegetable like steamed broccoli or green beans.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to the pot and warm over low heat, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni And Quick Sauce contains roughly 1008 calories, with 31g protein, 235g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (464% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 130g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 instead of elbow macaroni?
Absolutely! You can substitute elbow macaroni with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even whole grain options. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose to ensure it's cooked al dente.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the hamburger and replacing it with plant-based protein options like lentils or crumbled tempeh. You can also add more vegetables, such as zucchini or mushrooms, to enhance the flavor and texture.
How can I add more flavor to the sauce?
To enhance the flavor of the sauce, consider adding additional spices like garlic powder, black pepper, or even some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. For a deeper flavor, you can sauté the onions and peppers in olive oil before adding them to the sauce, which will bring out their natural sweetness.
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).