Italian Beef and Macaroni Stew
Italian Beef and Macaroni Stew, often called 'Beef and Mac' or 'American Goulash' in some regions, is a hearty, one-pot comfort food featuring ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a tomato-based sauce. It typically includes onions, garlic, and a blend of Italian herbs like oregano and basil, sometimes enriched with bell peppers or a touch of tomato paste for depth. This dish is a staple of American home cooking with Italian-inspired flavors, popular for its simplicity and satisfying nature.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This stew is a balanced, high-protein meal with a moderate amount of carbohydrates from the pasta and a moderate fat content from the beef. It provides a good source of iron, zinc, and B vitamins from the meat, along with lycopene from the tomatoes, and a typical serving contains roughly 400-500 calories.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbs | 42 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 8 g |
| Sodium | 750 mg |
| Iron | 4 mg |
| Zinc | 5 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 2.5 mcg |
| Potassium | 600 mg |
| Lycopene | 6 mg |
| Vitamin C | 15 mg |
| Calcium | 80 mg |
| Phosphorus | 300 mg |
Per 1.5 cups (360 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, it's a fascinating example of how Italian immigrant cuisine adapted and evolved in American kitchens, becoming a beloved, budget-friendly family meal. Nutritionally, it's a complete meal in a bowl, combining protein, carbs, and vegetables, making it a practical choice for feeding a crowd.
