Macaroni (With Chipped Beef)
Creamy macaroni with chipped beef, cheddar cheese, and celery soup offers comforting flavors perfect for a hearty, satisfying meal for family or friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put cooked macaroni in a butter or margarine-lined baking dish.
- In a saucepan, combine milk, cheddar cheese, celery soup, chopped onion, and chipped beef.
- Cook over medium heat until cheese is melted and mixture is heated through.
- Pour the cheese mixture over the macaroni in the baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier consistency, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or sour cream to the cheese mixture. You can substitute the cheddar with Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a bit of spice, adding red pepper flakes can enhance the dish. Make sure to chop the chipped beef into smaller pieces for better distribution throughout the macaroni.
Serving Suggestions
This macaroni dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For an extra crunch, serve with garlic bread or a crispy baguette. It also works well as a comforting side dish alongside meat-based entrees like the Pinwheel Meat Loaf or A-1 Chili.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a covered baking dish and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni (With Chipped Beef) contains roughly 1395 calories, with 47g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 85g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (95% of the Daily Value), calcium (93% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (59% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2203mg 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 pasta?
Yes, you can substitute the macaroni with other pasta shapes like shells, penne, or fusilli. Just ensure they are cooked al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can omit the chipped beef and use a vegetable-based soup instead of the celery soup. Adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach can also enhance the flavors while keeping the dish vegetarian.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
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).