Macaroni Lunch
A hearty and flavorful macaroni dish featuring spicy pan-fried sausage in a rich tomato sauce, perfect for a comforting lunch or casual dinner. The combination of savory sausage, tender pasta, and seasoned tomato broth appeals to family and friends, offering a satisfying and easy-to-make meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pan fry sausage into crumbled pieces and drain on paper towels.
- In a large boiler, bring to boil tomatoes, tomato sauce, water, salt, pepper, canola oil, and celery seed.
- Add cooked macaroni and fried sausage into the tomato mixture.
- Stir well, turn off heat, cover with lid, and leave to sit for 5 minutes.
- Serve hot with crackers and salad or coleslaw.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using Larry'S Hot Sausage for a spicier kick. You can substitute the elbow macaroni with penne or shells if you prefer a different texture. If you're short on time, use pre-cooked sausage or even a vegetarian sausage option to cater to dietary preferences. Don't hesitate to add some vegetables, like bell peppers or onions, for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the macaroni lunch hot, accompanied by a side of crackers for crunch or a fresh salad for a refreshing contrast. Coleslaw also pairs well, adding a creamy texture. For a complete meal, consider serving with crusty bread or a side of garlic bread. This dish also complements a chilled beverage such as iced tea or lemonade.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or extra tomato sauce to prevent drying out. Microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring gently until warmed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni Lunch contains roughly 263 calories, with 1g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (54% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 665mg per serving (29% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the macaroni and sausage mixture ahead of time. Just cook the pasta and sausage, then combine them with the sauce and store in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit of water if necessary.
What can I do if I don't have canned tomatoes?
If you don't have canned tomatoes, you can use fresh tomatoes instead. Simply chop about 2 pounds of ripe tomatoes and cook them down until they break apart and release their juices. You can also use tomato puree as a substitute if you're looking for a smoother sauce.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, this macaroni dish can be frozen for up to three months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little liquid to restore moisture.
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).