Pasta In A Pot
Pasta In A Pot is a comforting, hearty dish that combines the richness of ground beef or turkey with the savory flavors of sautéed onions, garlic, and a medley of sauces. Topped with creamy Provolone and Mozzarella cheeses, it's perfect for family dinners or gatherings, satisfying even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients
- 3 medium onions, chopped ⓘ
- 1/4 cup margarine, melted ⓘ
- 1 1/2 to 2 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 (15 oz.) jar spaghetti sauce ⓘ
- 1 (16 oz.) can stewed tomatoes ⓘ
- 1 (4 oz.) can mushrooms, drained ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp garlic salt
- 1 (8 oz.) pkg seashell macaroni ⓘ
- 1 (8 oz.) sliced Provolone cheese ⓘ
- 2 cups sour cream ⓘ
- 1 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- Saute onions in melted margarine until translucent.
- Add ground beef or turkey to the pot and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in spaghetti sauce, stewed tomatoes, mushrooms, and garlic salt. Mix well and let simmer for 20 minutes.
- Cook seashell macaroni according to package instructions, then drain.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker meal, consider using pre-cooked ground beef or turkey. You can also substitute the shells with any pasta you have on hand, like elbow macaroni or penne. If you prefer a creamier texture, add an extra cup of sour cream. For added flavor, try incorporating some Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta dish hot, topped with additional shredded Mozzarella cheese for extra cheesiness. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider pairing it with a slice of Meat Loaf In Slow Cooker or some roasted vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. You can also microwave individual portions until heated through, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta In A Pot contains roughly 1142 calories, with 56g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 87g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (112% of the Daily Value), calcium (89% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1628mg per serving (71% 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?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives if you're looking for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the meat is fully cooked.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked pasta. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and heat in a saucepan or microwave until warmed through.
What can I add to enhance the flavor?
Consider adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving for a burst of freshness. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top can also elevate the dish. For a twist, you can mix in some Quick Salami or other favorite meats to add depth to the flavors.
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).