Yum-Chow
Yum-Chow is a comforting, hearty dish featuring tender macaroni, flavorful ground beef, and savory tomato soup, perfect for satisfying family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil macaroni until tender; drain.
- Melt oleo in a large skillet or pot.
- Add ground beef, chopped green pepper, salt, and pepper; cook until beef is browned.
- Add tomato soup and water to the meat mixture.
- Simmer gently for 15 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve topped with a cheese triangle and allow it to melt slightly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or a dollop of sour cream to the beef mixture. If you're short on time, substitute ground turkey for the beef for a lighter option. Chopped onions or mushrooms can also enhance the flavor profile, making it reminiscent of other hearty Beef recipes. Ensure the macaroni is al dente to retain its texture during simmering.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Yum-Chow with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the dish. For a fun twist, top with crushed tortilla chips for added crunch. This dish pairs beautifully with a cheese triangle that melts perfectly over the hot macaroni. For a complete meal, you might also enjoy it alongside El Slop O for a hearty gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently, or heat on the stove over low heat with a splash of water to prevent drying out. This dish also freezes well for up to two months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Yum-Chow contains roughly 213 calories, with 9g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1014mg per serving (44% 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 instead of macaroni?
Absolutely! While macaroni is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type. The key is to ensure the pasta is cooked al dente before mixing it with the meat sauce for the best texture.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes! You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based alternative, like lentils, tempeh, or a meat substitute like Beyond Meat. Additionally, increase the amount of green pepper and add other vegetables such as zucchini or corn to enhance the flavor and texture, making it a satisfying vegetarian dish.
What can I do if I don't have tomato soup?
If you don't have tomato soup on hand, you can create a quick substitute by mixing canned crushed tomatoes with a bit of sugar, salt, and Italian seasoning. Alternatively, a combination of tomato sauce and a splash of broth will work well. This allows you to maintain the dish's flavor while using what you already have in your pantry.
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).