Tomato And Beef Macaroni
A hearty and cheesy beef and tomato macaroni bake with savory flavors, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers seeking a quick, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet and drain excess fat.
- Stir in the stewed tomatoes, cooked macaroni, mayonnaise or Miracle Whip, and any desired vegetables.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake at 350° to 400°F until the cheese bubbles, about 20 to 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a variation, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor. You can substitute the elbow macaroni with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option. If you prefer a creamier dish, increase the amount of mayonnaise or use sour cream instead. This recipe is flexible, so feel free to experiment with different cheeses or spices to enhance the taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Tomato and Beef Macaroni alongside a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Broccoli And Ground Beef Casserole for a comforting dinner spread. For a touch of freshness, consider garnishing with chopped parsley or grated Parmesan before serving.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the dish cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato And Beef Macaroni contains roughly 755 calories, with 37g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (94% of the Daily Value), calcium (91% of the Daily Value), and protein (75% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1248mg per serving (54% 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 recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the meat is fully cooked.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time by assembling it without baking, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What can I do if I don't have stewed tomatoes?
If you don’t have stewed tomatoes on hand, you can use diced tomatoes or crushed tomatoes instead. You might want to add some Italian seasoning or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity, ensuring your dish maintains a rich flavor.
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).