Spanish Macaroni
A hearty Spanish-inspired macaroni casserole combining tender pasta, savory ground beef, cheesy goodness, and a flavorful tomato sauce topped with crunchy bread crumbs.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion and green pepper in margarine in a skillet until tender.
- Add ground beef, salt, and pepper; cook until beef is browned and crumbly, stirring frequently.
- Add tomato soup, cubed cheese, and cooked macaroni; mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Top with bread crumbs.
- Bake at 350°F for 25 to 30 minutes until heated through and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic or a pinch of smoked paprika when sautéing the veggies. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a lighter version. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a bit of cream cheese or sour cream along with the cheese. To enhance the flavor further, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This Spanish Macaroni is a hearty main dish that pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables. For a complete meal, serve it alongside garlic bread or crusty rolls. It also goes well with a light white wine or iced tea for an enjoyable dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, you can microwave individual portions or place the entire dish in an oven preheated to 350°F until warmed through, approximately 15-20 minutes. Adding a splash of water can help prevent it from drying out during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spanish Macaroni contains roughly 269 calories, with 11g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (85% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 818mg per serving (36% 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 cheese?
Yes, you can use any cheese you prefer or have on hand. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses can work well. Just make sure it melts nicely to create that creamy texture in the dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through completely.
What can I add for extra vegetables?
You can easily incorporate vegetables like diced tomatoes, corn, or even spinach into the mixture. Just sauté them along with the onion and green pepper to ensure they are tender before combining them with the rest of the ingredients.
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).