Thelma'S Beef Macaroni
A hearty and flavorful beef macaroni casserole with chili beans and melted cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef and chopped onion together in a skillet.
- Add hot chili beans, tomato sauce, and water to the beef mixture.
- Simmer the mixture for about 30 minutes.
- Add elbow macaroni to the skillet and cook on low until the macaroni is done, stirring a couple of times.
- Place slices of cheese over the cooked macaroni and cover until the cheese melts.
- Serve hot once the cheese has melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture. If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative. Using whole wheat elbow macaroni can add a nutty flavor and extra fiber. To enhance the dish, try incorporating some garlic powder or cumin for additional depth of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Thelma's Beef Macaroni with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. For a fun twist, pair it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chopped green onions on top. This hearty dish also pairs beautifully with American recipes like Cheeseburger Delight or Crock-Pot Hamburger Soup for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it in a covered dish, stirring occasionally until heated through. This dish is perfect for meal prep!
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Thelma'S Beef Macaroni contains roughly 717 calories, with 34g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (68% of the Daily Value), iron (45% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1215mg per serving (53% 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 any pasta shape you have on hand, such as penne or fusilli. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta's package instructions to ensure it's perfectly al dente.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make Thelma's Beef Macaroni healthier, consider using lean ground beef or ground turkey instead of regular ground beef. You can also add more vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to increase the nutritional value without sacrificing flavor.
Can I freeze Thelma's Beef Macaroni?
Yes, this dish freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it on the stove or in the microwave until 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).