Mama Sarah'S Own Macaroni Elbow Casserole
A hearty and cheesy casserole combining macaroni, seasoned ground meat, fresh vegetables, and crispy bread crumbs, perfect for family dinners and comforting meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni and drain.
- Brown the hamburger or sausage and drain off the grease.
- In a buttered casserole, make layers of macaroni, hamburger, canned tomatoes, diced celery, and grated cheese.
- Repeat the layers and top with bread crumbs.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of sour cream or cream cheese between the layers. If you're out of sharp cheese, cheddar or mozzarella can work as a substitute. For a twist, you might add some sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to the mix. This dish can also be adapted for those who prefer turkey or chicken sausage instead of beef.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or your favorite crusty rolls. For a comforting touch, consider serving it with a warm bowl of soup, like the Ozark Mountain Bean Soup, for a complete family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mama Sarah'S Own Macaroni Elbow Casserole contains roughly 237 calories, with 10g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of protein (19% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (17% of the Daily Value), and calcium (16% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1814mg per serving (79% 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 whole grain macaroni instead of regular elbow macaroni?
Yes, whole grain macaroni is a great substitute and will add extra fiber to your dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as whole grain pasta may require a few extra minutes to become tender.
Can I freeze this casserole after baking?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole after it has cooled completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the hamburger or sausage with a plant-based meat alternative, or you can simply add more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach. Adjust the seasoning to your taste to ensure a flavorful vegetarian version.
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).