Pot Pasta
A hearty baked pasta dish combining ground beef, creamy sour cream, melted cheeses, and rich tomato sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Simmer ground beef, onions, stewed tomatoes, sauce, and garlic for 20 minutes.
- Cook the shell macaroni according to package instructions and drain.
- Mix half of the cooked macaroni with half of the sauce and pour into a large baking pan, spreading a small amount of sauce in the pan first.
- Spread half of the sour cream over this mixture.
- Top with one package of shredded Provolone cheese and one package of shredded Mozzarella cheese.
- Mix the remaining sauce and macaroni, then pour over the sour cream layer.
- Spread the remaining sour cream over the top.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded Mozzarella cheese over the entire dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 35 to 45 minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef to lighten the dish, or use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a tangy twist. Feel free to mix in vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to enhance nutrition and flavor, similar to what's found in Country Vegetable Soup.
Serving Suggestions
This pot pasta pairs beautifully with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside Cowboy Cornbread. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil for a fresh touch. Consider offering a selection of hot sauces for those who enjoy a little extra spice.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish covered with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pot Pasta contains roughly 1060 calories, with 51g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 60g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (102% of the Daily Value), calcium (83% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1673mg per serving (73% 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 assemble the pot pasta ahead of time and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When you're ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's cold from the fridge.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Provolone and Mozzarella are great choices, you can use other cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile. Just ensure they melt well for the best texture. Mixing in some Parmesan cheese can also add a nice depth to the dish.
Is this recipe easily adaptable for dietary restrictions?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for dietary preferences. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta. To make it vegetarian, replace the ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute. For lactose-free versions, use dairy-free cheese and sour cream alternatives to enjoy this comforting dish.
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).