Mom Kahn'S Elbows And Chopped Meat
A hearty and flavorful pasta dish with chopped meat, tomato sauce, and vegetables, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers seeking robust flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook and drain the elbow macaroni.
- In a pan, sauté chopped onion and bell pepper until tender.
- Add chopped meat and brown it.
- Add tomato sauce, water, and spices to taste, then bring to a boil.
- Lower the heat and simmer covered for 1 hour.
- Uncover and cook on high to dry out excess liquid.
- Optionally, add kidney beans if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier dish, consider adding kidney beans or even frozen mixed vegetables for extra nutrition. If you prefer a spicier flavor, try adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for the chopped meat for a lighter option. Cooking the macaroni just until al dente will prevent it from becoming mushy during the simmering process.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mom Kahn's Elbows and Chopped Meat with a side of crusty bread or a simple Layered Cabbage Salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan or a dollop of sour cream on top can enhance the flavors. This dish pairs well with a light dessert like Strawberry Cloud Pie to finish off the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to the dish and warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This will help maintain moisture in the dish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom Kahn'S Elbows And Chopped Meat contains roughly 594 calories, with 14g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (27% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2490mg per serving (108% 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 wheat elbow macaroni instead?
Yes, whole wheat elbow macaroni is a great substitute and adds a nutty flavor along with more fiber. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as whole wheat pasta may require a slightly longer cooking duration to achieve the desired tenderness.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
What can I add for extra flavor?
For extra flavor, consider incorporating garlic while sautéing the onions and bell pepper. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can also enhance the taste. A splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce can add depth, too. Feel free to experiment to find your perfect balance.
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).