Stuffed Macaroni
A hearty baked pasta dish featuring stuffed manicotti shells filled with seasoned sausage and ground beef, topped with creamy mushroom sauce for a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, mix together the sausage and ground chuck with your hands.
- Stuff the sausage and ground chuck mixture into the manicotti shells.
- Lay the stuffed shells in a 9 x 13-inch glass baking pan.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding herbs like oregano or basil to the meat mixture. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute turkey sausage for the bulk sausage. You can also use ricotta cheese mixed with spinach as a stuffing alternative for a vegetarian twist. Be cautious not to overstuff the manicotti shells to prevent them from bursting during baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed macaroni with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a Marinated Antipasto Tray for added variety. For a bit of spice, consider a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving. This dish also goes well with a glass of red wine.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stuffed macaroni in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Macaroni contains roughly 510 calories, with 34g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (77% of the Daily Value) and protein (68% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1061mg per serving (46% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed macaroni in advance. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes and then bake as directed.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup or a homemade béchamel sauce. This will alter the taste slightly but will still provide a creamy texture that complements the dish well.
Can I freeze the stuffed macaroni?
Yes, this dish freezes well. After assembling, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To cook from frozen, bake at 350°F for about 1 hour, removing the foil for the last 15 minutes to allow the top to brown.
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).