Mantel Beef
A hearty and flavorful beef pasta dish combining ground beef, onions, spicy rotel, and cheesy goodness, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef and chopped onions in a skillet, then drain excess grease.
- Add the can of manwich and rotel to the beef mixture and heat thoroughly.
- Add cheese to the mixture and stir until melted.
- Stir in the cooked and drained elbow macaroni.
- Optional: Add a can of pork and beans, or a can of whole kernel corn, or both, if desired.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic powder or smoked paprika to the beef mixture. You can substitute the elbow macaroni with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rotini. If you want to lighten the dish, use lean ground turkey instead of beef. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or a meat substitute in place of the ground beef.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Mantel Beef hot, garnished with shredded cheese or chopped green onions for added flavor. It pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For an extra kick, consider serving with jalapeños or hot sauce. This dish is also a great option for potlucks, similar to Texas Party Dip.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Heat in short intervals until warmed through. You can also reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mantel Beef contains roughly 233 calories, with 15g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (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 use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative. Each option will provide a different flavor and texture, but the recipe will still work well with those substitutions. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, consider using spicy Rotel or adding diced jalapeños to the mixture. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes or hot sauce into the dish before serving. Adjust the spice level to your preference for a kick that suits your taste.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the point of mixing in the macaroni, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave and then add the macaroni before serving.
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).