Sharon'S Macaroni And Hamburger Dish
A hearty macaroni and hamburger casserole with savory ground beef, mushrooms, olives, and melted cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients, except green olives, with browned ground beef and onion.
- Simmer for at least an hour.
- Just before serving, stir in green olives and simmer another 15 minutes.
- Stir in cooked macaroni.
- Top with cheese and melt.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream while mixing. If you don’t have shell pasta, any short pasta like penne or elbows will work well. You can substitute ground beef with turkey for a lighter option or use plant-based meat for a vegetarian version. Enhance the flavor with spices like paprika or Italian seasoning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty macaroni and hamburger dish with a side salad for a fresh contrast, or pair it with garlic bread for a comforting meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving with steamed vegetables or roasted Brussels sprouts. This dish also pairs beautifully with Aunt Clara'S Homemade Chili for those who enjoy a little spice.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out, and warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sharon'S Macaroni And Hamburger Dish contains roughly 160 calories, with 6g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (80% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C.
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 prepare this macaroni and hamburger dish a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the point of adding cooked macaroni. Store it in the fridge, and when ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove, adding the macaroni before serving.
Is it possible to add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Adding bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach can enhance the nutritional value and flavor of the dish. Just sauté them with the onion before mixing them with the other ingredients. This flexibility makes it a great way to use up leftover veggies.
What type of cheese works best for topping?
Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for this dish, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella for a milder flavor or a blend of cheeses for added complexity. Just make sure to melt it thoroughly on top for that delicious, gooey finish.
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).