Rattlesnake Stew(Not Really)
A hearty, flavorful stew featuring ground meat, vegetables, and macaroni in a savory tomato-based sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground meat and chopped onion and cook until browned; drain well.
- Add tomato sauce, chili powder, whole kernel corn, English peas, sliced mushrooms, and their juices to the meat mixture.
- Add two cans of tomato sauce full of water; stir well and then add the macaroni.
- Cover and cook on low heat until the macaroni is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider browning the meat in olive oil and adding garlic or bell peppers to the onion while cooking. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground meat with a plant-based alternative or use lentils. You can also adjust the chili powder to your taste or use a mild blend for a gentler heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Rattlesnake Stew with a side of warm cornbread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. A fresh garden salad pairs well, and for a unique twist, try drizzling some Cold Slaw Dressing over the salad. This stew also goes great with a refreshing glass of Sparkly'S Surprise Punch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rattlesnake Stew(Not Really) contains roughly 271 calories, with 9g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (45% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (31% of the Daily Value), and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1736mg per serving (75% 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 other types of meat in this stew?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with turkey, chicken, or even pork. If you want a richer flavor, consider using ground lamb. Just ensure that the cooking times are adjusted accordingly to ensure all meats are thoroughly cooked.
How can I make this stew thicker?
To thicken the stew, you can add a slurry of cornstarch mixed with water or simply let it simmer uncovered for a longer time to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. Another option is to incorporate mashed beans or lentils, which will also enhance the stew's heartiness.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, this stew freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm on the stovetop or microwave 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).