Pesky Beef And Macaroni
A hearty, cheesy beef and macaroni casserole with savory green onions and tomatoes, perfect for satisfying family dinners with bold flavors and comforting textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- While cooking the macaroni according to package instructions, heat oil in a heavy, deep skillet.
- Dice the green onions and sauté in the oil for about 5 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and sprinkle with seasoned salt and pepper.
- Cook until the meat loses its red color, then drain excess fat.
- Add the stewed tomatoes and chili sauce to the skillet and heat through.
- Drain the cooked macaroni.
- Combine the macaroni with the beef and sauce mixture, then transfer to a baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven until cheese is melted and bubbly, about 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or a dollop of sour cream to the beef mixture before baking. If you prefer a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Using whole grain macaroni adds more fiber to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a side salad for a refreshing balance, or pair it with garlic bread for a hearty meal. It also goes well with steamed vegetables for added nutrition. This recipe is a comforting choice for family dinners and can be a great addition to potlucks alongside other American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in an oven-safe container covered with foil at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes or until heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pesky Beef And Macaroni contains roughly 834 calories, with 9g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 83g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (59% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1375mg per serving (60% 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 beef and sauce mixture and cook the macaroni in advance. Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I use if I don't have chili sauce?
If you don't have chili sauce on hand, you can substitute it with a mixture of ketchup and hot sauce or barbecue sauce. This will maintain the flavor profile while providing a slightly different taste. Adjust the amount based on your preference for sweetness and heat.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) until 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).