Macaroni & Beef Simple Supper

This Macaroni & Beef Simple Supper is the ultimate weeknight comfort meal. It combines hearty whole-wheat macaroni with savory beef chunks simmered in a rich, aromatic sauce infused with tomato, basil, and oregano. The dish is robust yet simple, delivering a warm, home-style flavor that satisfies the whole family. Perfect for busy evenings when you need a nutritious, filling main course that comes together quickly. The whole-wheat pasta adds a pleasant nutty texture and extra fiber, while the herbs provide a fresh, Mediterranean-inspired aroma. It&# 226;ÂÂs a reliable, crowd-pleasing dish that warms the soul without requiring hours of prep time.

Cooking Method: Boiling, Stewing

Cuisine: Global

Courses: Main Courses

Difficulty: Intermediate

Servings: 4

Calories: 803.5

Description

This Macaroni & Beef Simple Supper is the ultimate weeknight comfort meal. It combines hearty whole-wheat macaroni with savory beef chunks simmered in a rich, aromatic sauce infused with tomato, basil, and oregano. The dish is robust yet simple, delivering a warm, home-style flavor that satisfies the whole family. Perfect for busy evenings when you need a nutritious, filling main course that comes together quickly. The whole-wheat pasta adds a pleasant nutty texture and extra fiber, while the herbs provide a fresh, Mediterranean-inspired aroma. It&# 226;ÂÂs a reliable, crowd-pleasing dish that warms the soul without requiring hours of prep time.

Ingredients

9 ounce Macaroni, Whole-Wheat
2 ounce Freeze-Dried Beef Chunks
4 ounce Beef Bouillon Cubes (crumbled) or Beef-Flavored TVP
2 ounce Tomato Crystals (reconstituted) or 1 cup Tomato Paste
1 teaspoon Dried Basil
1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
1/4 teaspoon Garlic Powder
1 envelope Cream of Onion Soup Mix (optional, for richness)
4 cups Water or Beef Broth

Directions

1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole-wheat macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2
In a separate large skillet or Dutch oven, combine the freeze-dried beef chunks, beef bouillon cubes (or TVP), tomato crystals (or paste), basil, oregano, and garlic powder.
3
Add 4 cups of water or beef broth to the skillet. Stir well to dissolve the bouillon and tomato crystals.
4
Bring the liquid mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for 5-10 minutes to allow the beef chunks to rehydrate and the flavors to meld.
5
If using the cream of onion soup mix, whisk it into the simmering sauce until fully incorporated and thickened slightly.
6
Add the drained macaroni to the skillet with the beef sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly.
7
Simmer together for another 2-3 minutes to ensure the pasta absorbs the sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
8
Serve hot directly from the skillet into bowls.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 803.5kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 19.1g30%
Saturated Fat 6.5g33%
Cholesterol 78.0mg26%
Sodium 72.0mg3%
Total Carbohydrate 117.0g39%
Dietary Fiber 7.6g31%
Sugars 1.3g
Protein 45.8g92%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

If using freeze-dried ingredients, ensure they are fully rehydrated in the hot liquid before adding the pasta. You may need to add an extra half-cup of water if the sauce becomes too thick.

For a fresher flavor, substitute dried herbs with 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped basil and 1 teaspoon of fresh chopped oregano.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to restore moisture.

This recipe is designed to work with pantry staples like freeze-dried beef and tomato crystals, making it ideal for camping or long-term storage, but fresh ingredients yield a more vibrant taste.

Keywords: beef, macaroni, pasta, comfort food, one-pot, weeknight dinner, whole wheat, herbs, tomato sauce, hearty, family meal, easy recipe, simmered, basil, oregano, garlic, onion, supper

Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/macaroni-beef-simple-supper/