Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni

Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni is a delightful dish that brings the warmth of home-cooked meals to your table. This comforting recipe combines savory beef, vibrant vegetables, and creamy cheese, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Its unique blend of flavors and textures ensures everyone will enjoy a hearty serving, whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply indulging yourself.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, making it a great choice for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: With a rich combination of spices and ingredients, every bite is packed with deliciousness.
• Versatile Meal Option: Perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to potlucks with friends.
• Cheesy Goodness: The generous layer of melted cheddar cheese on top creates an irresistible crust that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make all the difference when cooking. Here are the essentials you’ll need to create Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni efficiently.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large skillet
• Blender or food processor
• 9×13 baking dish
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons

Why These Tools Matter

• Large skillet: Ideal for browning the beef and sautéing vegetables evenly.
• Blender or food processor: Helps you combine sauces smoothly for a well-blended flavor.
• 9×13 baking dish: Perfect size for baking and serving this hearty meal.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures perfectly cooked macaroni that adds texture to your dish.

Ingredients

For the Beef Mixture

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, seeded and diced

For the Pasta and Sauce

• 10 oz uncooked elbow macaroni
• salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• (14.5 oz) can stewed tomatoes, undrained
• 8 oz tomato paste
• 1 cup vegetable stock

For Topping

• 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided

How to Make Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350˚F.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions. Once cooked, drain it well and set aside.

Step 3: Brown the Beef and Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Add the ground beef, chopped onion, sliced mushrooms, diced celery, and diced bell pepper.
2. Cook until the beef is browned (about 10 minutes).
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Blend the Sauce

In a blender or food processor:
1. Combine sugar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, stewed tomatoes (with juice), tomato paste, vegetable stock, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth.
3. Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

In a 9×13 baking dish:
1. Add the beef mixture along with the cooked macaroni.
2. Pour the blended sauce over everything.
3. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.

Step 6: Bake It Up

Top your mixture with the remaining cheddar cheese:
– Bake in preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbling.

Enjoy your homemade Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni as a comforting meal that everyone will love!

How to Serve Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni

Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni is a hearty and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serving it correctly can enhance the overall dining experience, making it even more delightful for your guests or family.

Classic Presentation

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Add a sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil on top before serving for a fresh touch.
• Serve with Extra Cheese: Offer additional shredded sharp cheddar cheese on the side for those who love their macaroni extra cheesy.

Pair with Salads

• Simple Green Salad: A refreshing green salad with lettuce, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the macaroni.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons of a Caesar salad provide a nice contrast to the dish.

Add a Crunch

• Garlic Bread: Serve slices of toasted garlic bread to scoop up the macaroni or enjoy on the side.
• Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins add a delightful texture and flavor that pairs wonderfully with the dish.

How to Perfect Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni

To ensure your Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Flavoring: Use fresh ingredients whenever possible. Fresh vegetables enhance the taste significantly.
• Cheese Blend: Experiment with different cheeses. Mixing sharp cheddar with mozzarella can add creaminess and new flavors.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercook your elbow macaroni, as it will absorb some sauce during baking without becoming mushy.
• Layering Technique: Layer half of the beef mixture and macaroni, then add sauce, followed by another layer to ensure even distribution of flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni

When planning a meal featuring Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni, selecting suitable side dishes can elevate your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables seasoned with garlic make for a colorful and nutritious side.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity that balances out the rich flavors of the macaroni.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a healthy green element and is easy to prepare.
4. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes offer versatility with toppings like sour cream or chives for added flavor.
5. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the savory macaroni.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs add texture and heartiness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni, it’s easy to overlook some important steps. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring the Pasta Cooking Time: Overcooking or undercooking the macaroni can lead to a mushy or hard texture. Always follow the package directions for perfect pasta.
• Underseasoning the Dish: Failing to season properly can make your dish bland. Taste as you go, and don’t be afraid to add more salt and pepper.
• Not Browning the Beef Properly: Skipping browning can result in less flavor. Make sure to cook the beef until it’s well-browned before adding other ingredients.
• Skipping the Cheese Layer: Cheese adds creaminess and flavor; omitting it will change the dish significantly. Ensure you include cheese both in the mixture and on top before baking.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients elevates your dish. Opt for fresh vegetables and good-quality cheese for the best results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3-5 days in the refrigerator.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni

• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It will remain good for about 2-3 months in the freezer.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, cover with foil, and bake for 20-30 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni?

Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni is a flavorful baked pasta dish made with ground beef, vegetables, and cheese, perfect for family dinners.

Can I customize Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni?

Yes! You can add your favorite vegetables or swap out ground beef for chicken or turkey to suit your taste.

How long does it take to prepare Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni?

Preparation takes about 15 minutes, followed by a baking time of approximately 30 minutes.

Is Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It’s a great option for meal prepping as it stores well in both refrigerator and freezer.

Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?

Yes! Gluten-free elbow macaroni works well as a substitute if you need a gluten-free version of Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni.

Conclusion

Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different proteins or vegetables based on what you have on hand. This comforting dish is perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. Give it a try and enjoy its rich flavors!

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