One Dish Macaroni Beef
A hearty one-dish macaroni and beef casserole bursting with savory flavors, perfect for quick family dinners and comfort food lovers seeking a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Crumble ground beef into a 2-quart glass casserole.
- Stir in the chopped onion.
- Cover with a glass lid or plastic wrap.
- Microwave on High for 3 minutes.
- Drain excess fat from the beef mixture.
- Stir in the remaining ingredients: macaroni, tomato sauce, water, catsup, corn, brown sugar, salt, pepper, and chili powder.
- Re-cover and microwave on Defrost for 30 to 35 minutes or until macaroni is tender.
- Let stand, covered, for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider adding garlic or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture. If you don’t have macaroni, any small pasta shape works well. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. To add more vegetables, consider stirring in some bell peppers or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking. This dish pairs beautifully with Glazed Beef for a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve One Dish Macaroni Beef with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A sprinkle of shredded cheese on top just before serving adds a delicious creamy element. You can also pair it with crusty bread to soak up the sauce. For a cozy night in, consider serving it alongside Homestyle Vegetable Soup for a comforting combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. If the dish seems dry, add a splash of water or broth before reheating to maintain moisture. This makes for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of One Dish Macaroni Beef contains roughly 285 calories, with 5g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1713mg per serving (74% 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?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives if you prefer. Just be mindful of cooking times, as leaner meats may require less time in the microwave. Adjust seasonings to taste, as different meats can alter the flavor profile.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a few shakes of your favorite hot sauce into the mixture. You could also increase the amount of chili powder or add crushed red pepper flakes. Adjust the spice level to your liking for a customized kick!
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time. Assemble everything in the casserole dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. When ready to cook, microwave as directed, adding a few extra minutes if starting from cold to ensure everything is heated through.
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).