Tasty Macaroni And Beef
A hearty and flavorful macaroni and beef dish featuring tender ground beef, vegetables, and a rich tomato sauce, perfect for satisfying family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Using a large frying pan, cook chopped onion and sweet pepper until tender.
- Add garlic powder and ground beef; cook until the meat is browned.
- Add undiluted tomato soup, canned tomatoes, bouillon cubes, water, and a pinch of salt.
- Simmer until all ingredients are well mixed and flavors meld.
- Turn off heat.
- Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions.
- Mix cooked macaroni with the meat mixture and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you don’t have bouillon cubes, chicken or beef broth can work in place of water. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can elevate the dish, adding freshness that complements the savory flavors. Serve with a side salad for a refreshing contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Tasty Macaroni and Beef hot, garnished with freshly grated cheese or chopped parsley for added color and flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving alongside roasted vegetables or a refreshing coleslaw. It also makes a great filling for Biscuit Burgers, creating a fun twist on classic comfort food.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also heat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Avoid reheating more than once for best quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tasty Macaroni And Beef contains roughly 1261 calories, with 31g protein, 106g carbohydrates, and 86g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (61% of the Daily Value), iron (48% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 551mg per serving (24% 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 meat mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, cook the macaroni and mix it with the prepared meat sauce. This makes for a convenient weeknight dinner option, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Can I freeze this macaroni and beef dish?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and heat thoroughly on the stove or in the microwave.
What can I add to make it more nutritious?
You can enhance the nutritional value by adding vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or carrots to the meat mixture. Just sauté them along with the onions and peppers. Additionally, using whole wheat elbow macaroni can increase fiber content. This way, you can enjoy a hearty meal that’s also packed with nutrients.
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).