Meaty Macaroni And Cheese
A hearty and comforting macaroni and cheese with savory ground beef, vegetables, and melted cheddar, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions; drain.
- Brown ground beef, chopped onion, and sliced celery in butter in a large skillet; drain off excess fat.
- Stir in tomato sauce or tomatoes, salt, and pepper.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the beef mixture and pour into a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Top with shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the cheese topping before baking. If you prefer a different protein, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the beef. For extra flavor, add garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the meat mixture. This dish also pairs well with a side salad for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Meaty Macaroni And Cheese hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs excellently with steamed broccoli or a crisp green salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside garlic bread or toasted rolls. This dish is a comforting choice for family gatherings or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Meaty Macaroni And Cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, cover with foil and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meaty Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 204 calories, with 9g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (88% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1668mg per serving (73% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time by assembling it in the casserole dish and refrigerating it before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the refrigerator.
What can I use instead of Cheddar cheese?
If you want a different cheese flavor, mozzarella or Monterey Jack are great alternatives. You can also mix cheeses for a more complex taste. Just ensure they melt well for the best texture.
Can I freeze Meaty Macaroni And Cheese?
Yes, this dish freezes well. To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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).