Salmon Macaroni Dinner
Creamy salmon macaroni combines tender pasta with flaked salmon, velvety soup, and melted cheese, creating a comforting dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni until tender, then drain without rinsing.
- Stir in the cream of celery soup and evaporated milk into the cooked macaroni.
- Drain the salmon, flake it with a fork, and add it to the macaroni mixture along with the chopped pimentos.
- Add half of the shredded American cheese to the mixture and stir well.
- Turn the mixture into a 6-cup casserole dish.
- Arrange the remaining shredded cheese on top of the casserole.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a tablespoon of butter or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese to the mixture before baking. If you're out of cream of celery soup, you can substitute with cream of mushroom or chicken soup. For added flavor, experiment with herbs like dill or parsley, which pair well with salmon and enhance the dish's taste.
Serving Suggestions
This Salmon Macaroni Dinner is a hearty dish that pairs perfectly with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a touch of freshness, serve with lemon wedges on the side. It also makes a comforting lunch option the next day, and you can explore more American recipes that feature salmon for variety.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium power until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Salmon Macaroni Dinner contains roughly 589 calories, with 15g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (55% of the Daily Value), iron (45% of the Daily Value), and calcium (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 911mg per serving (40% 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 a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with other short pasta shapes like shells or penne. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose to ensure it's al dente before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
To make this dish healthier, consider using whole grain pasta and low-fat cheese. You can also add more vegetables, such as peas or spinach, to boost the nutritional value without compromising flavor, creating a well-rounded meal.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When you're ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's 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).