Heart-Healthy Macaroni and Beef

Savor the comforting flavors of a classic favorite with a healthier twist in this Heart-Healthy Macaroni and Beef recipe. Made with wholesome whole wheat macaroni, extra-lean ground beef, and a medley of nutrient-packed vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, mushrooms, and spinach, this dish transforms a beloved family meal into a guilt-free delight. With its rich tomato base, infused with aromatic spices like cumin and oregano, every bite delivers a burst of satisfying flavor while keeping sodium and fat to a minimum. Easy to prepare in just 45 minutes, this one-pot wonder is perfect for busy weeknights. Serve it piping hot and enjoy a nutritious, balanced meal that’s as good for your heart as it is for your taste buds.

Nutriscore Rating: 81/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 8 oz whole wheat macaroni
• 1 lb extra-lean ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion
• 3 garlic cloves
• 1 bell pepper
• 1 carrot
• 8 oz mushrooms
• 14.5 oz low-sodium diced tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups baby spinach

Directions

Step 1

Cook the whole wheat macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a large non-stick skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Step 3

Finely chop the onion and garlic. Dice the bell pepper and carrot, and slice the mushrooms.

Step 4

Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until translucent.

Step 5

Add the bell pepper, carrot, and mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.

Step 6

Add the extra-lean ground beef to the skillet. Cook and crumble the beef until it is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 7

Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato paste, and beef broth.

Step 8

Season the mixture with ground cumin, dried oregano, and black pepper.

Step 9

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 10

Stir in the baby spinach and cooked macaroni. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and everything is heated through.

Step 11

Remove from heat and let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving.

Step 12

Serve warm and enjoy your Heart-Healthy Macaroni and Beef!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2038.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2160.1

Total Fat 68.1g	0%
Saturated Fat 18.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 5.2g
Cholesterol 340.2mg	0%
Sodium 992.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 234.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 38.9g	0%
Total Sugars 42.1g
Protein 158.1g	0%

Vitamin D 31.8IU	0%
Calcium 411.3mg	0%
Iron 28.3mg	0%
Potassium 5055.1mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 28.1%

Protein: 28.9%

Carbs: 43.0%