Tomacaroni Stew
Tomacaroni Stew combines tender beef, tomatoes, peas, mushrooms, and macaroni in a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat salad oil in a large pot and brown the cubed steak.
- Remove the meat and cook chopped onions and minced garlic until golden brown.
- Return the browned meat to the pot with onions and garlic.
- Add salt, pepper, and drained chopped tomatoes to the mixture.
- Cover and simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours or until the meat is tender.
- Add undrained canned peas and sliced mushrooms to the stew.
- Stir in the uncooked macaroni.
- Cover and cook for an additional 15 minutes or until the macaroni is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider marinating the cubed steak in your favorite spices overnight. If you're short on time, beef broth can be used instead of water for a richer taste when simmering. Feel free to substitute the macaroni with whole grain or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option. Adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce can enhance the stew's richness.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty Tomacaroni Stew pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty bread or a fresh side salad, such as Orange Fruit Salad, to balance the richness. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Copper Kettle Carrots for added sweetness and color. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top can enhance the presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stew in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the stew seems too thick, you can add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomacaroni Stew contains roughly 673 calories, with 31g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (62% of the Daily Value), vitamin D (50% of the Daily Value), and iron (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1854mg per serving (81% 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 meat in this stew?
Yes, you can use chicken or pork as alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as they may require less time to become tender. Ground meat can also be used, but the texture will differ from cubed steak.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the meat with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of water and add more beans or lentils to maintain protein content, making it a satisfying vegan meal.
How do I know when the meat is tender?
The meat is tender when it can be easily pierced with a fork and shreds apart without resistance. Simmering for 1 1/2 to 2 hours should achieve this, but you can check periodically to ensure it's cooked to your preference.
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).