Quick Macaroni Dish
A quick, hearty macaroni dish packed with savory meat, tomato flavor, and vegetables, perfect for satisfying weeknight dinners and adaptable with leftover meats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the chopped onion, garlic, and celery in hot fat.
- Add the leftover meat; brown lightly.
- Add the condensed tomato soup, water, salt, and pepper; simmer for 30 to 40 minutes.
- Cook the macaroni until tender and drain.
- Place the cooked macaroni on a platter or serving dish.
- Pour the meat sauce over the macaroni.
- Optional: sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the tomato soup. If you don't have celery, chopped bell peppers or carrots can work as a substitute. You can also use any leftover meat like chicken or beef, or even swap for tofu for a vegetarian option. For added flavor, try incorporating Italian herbs such as oregano or basil.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the macaroni dish with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For extra flavor, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with Hot Orange Cider for a cozy dinner experience, especially in colder months.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, microwave on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce seems too thick.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Macaroni Dish contains roughly 244 calories, with 2g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1981mg per serving (86% 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 whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for the macaroni. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, as different types of pasta may cook differently.
What can I do if I don't have condensed tomato soup?
If you don't have condensed tomato soup, you can make a quick substitute by blending canned tomatoes with a bit of tomato paste and seasoning. Alternatively, a homemade tomato sauce can be used, though the cooking time may increase slightly.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, this macaroni dish freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then heat in the microwave or oven until warmed 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).