Quick Macaroni Supper
A hearty, quick-cooking macaroni dish with savory ground beef and vegetables, perfect for busy weeknights and satisfying for the whole family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef slightly in a skillet.
- Add chopped onion, celery, and green pepper to the meat and cook until vegetables are tender.
- Add tomato sauce or canned tomatoes and a small can of tomato paste for color and flavor.
- Set the meat and vegetable mixture aside.
- Boil 2 cups of macaroni in salted water until tender.
- Drain the macaroni and add it to the meat and vegetable mixture.
- Simmer everything together for 15 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker prep, use pre-chopped vegetables or frozen mixed veggies. Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the beef for a lighter option. If you prefer a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream or a handful of cheese before serving. To enhance the flavor, add Italian herbs or garlic powder to the meat while cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty macaroni dish with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a fun twist, top with shredded cheese and broil until bubbly. It pairs beautifully with Cold Weather Soup for a comforting dinner on chilly nights. A sprinkle of fresh parsley can add a pop of color and freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until heated through or warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent drying out. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Macaroni Supper contains roughly 346 calories, with 20g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (95% of the Daily Value), protein (39% of the Daily Value), and potassium (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. At about 346 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 macaroni instead of regular?
Yes, whole wheat macaroni is a great alternative and will add extra fiber to your meal. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary slightly from regular macaroni.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or use a combination of beans and lentils to create a filling vegetarian dish. Make sure to enhance the flavor with additional spices.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes while cooking the vegetables. You can also serve with hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy an extra kick.
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).