Western Mac
Western Mac is a hearty baked pasta dish combining macaroni and cheese with seasoned ground beef, vegetables, and a savory tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare macaroni and cheese dinner as directed.
- Brown ground beef, sliced celery, chopped green pepper, and chopped onion; cook until tender.
- Stir in drained corn, tomato paste, water, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooked macaroni; mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of milk or some shredded cheese to the macaroni and cheese before mixing it with the other ingredients. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils. Adding a dash of hot sauce can also enhance the flavor. This recipe is similar to American recipes like the Cheeseburger Broiled Dinner.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Western Mac with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs well with sides like coleslaw or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner. For a comforting twist, consider serving alongside the Heaven Bound Casserole for a hearty feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel, heating in short intervals until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Western Mac contains roughly 374 calories, with 18g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (67% of the Daily Value), potassium (38% of the Daily Value), and protein (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1325mg per serving (58% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute macaroni with other pasta types such as shells, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose to ensure it is cooked al dente before mixing it with the other ingredients.
What can I do if I don't have tomato paste?
If you don't have tomato paste, you can use tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes as a substitute. Just reduce the amount of water slightly to maintain the right consistency. You can also enhance the flavor with a bit of sugar or Italian seasoning to mimic the richness of tomato paste.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add spice, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when cooking the beef and vegetables. You can also top the finished dish with sliced hot peppers or a drizzle of spicy sauce before serving for an extra kick.
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).