Pasta Pot
A hearty pasta bake featuring flavorful meat sauce, melted provolone and mozzarella cheeses, and tender shell macaroni, perfect for comforting family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the shell macaroni until tender and drain.
- Combine the cooked macaroni, cooked hamburger, spaghetti sauce, chopped onions, chopped green pepper, stewed tomatoes, and mushrooms in a large pot.
- Simmer the mixture for 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Remove from heat and stir in the sour cream.
- Transfer to a baking dish, top with Provolone and Mozzarella cheeses.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until cheese is bubbly and golden, about 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the hamburger with garlic and spices before adding it to the pot. You can substitute the Provolone with Gouda for a smokier flavor or use a dairy-free sour cream for a lighter version. If you have leftover vegetables, like spinach or zucchini, feel free to toss them in for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty pasta dish hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil for added color. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad and garlic bread. To elevate your meal, consider serving alongside Ol' Fashion Farm Fry for a comforting combo.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta Pot contains roughly 434 calories, with 21g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (88% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (82% of the Daily Value), and protein (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 754mg per serving (33% 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 pasta?
Absolutely! While shell macaroni works great, you can substitute it with penne, rotini, or any pasta of your choice. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make this dish vegetarian by replacing the hamburger with a plant-based meat alternative or by using a mix of mushrooms and lentils for a hearty texture.
How can I make this dish spicier?
For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when simmering the sauce. You can also use spicy sausage instead of hamburger for a flavorful twist.
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).