Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni

Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni is a delightful dish that brings together comforting flavors and hearty ingredients. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of savory ground beef, fresh vegetables, and gooey cheese creates a meal that is sure to please everyone. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The blend of spices and fresh ingredients makes each bite bursting with flavor.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love cheesy pasta dishes, making this a hit with the whole family.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a main course or side dish; you can even customize it with your favorite vegetables.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare in advance and bake when ready—perfect for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking more efficient and enjoyable. Here are essential items you’ll need to create this delicious Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large skillet
• Baking dish (9”x13”)
• Blender or food processor
• Measuring cups and spoons

Why These Tools Matter

• Large skillet: Ideal for browning the meat and sautéing vegetables evenly.
• Baking dish: A sturdy dish ensures even cooking and easy serving for your Creole macaroni.
• Blender or food processor: Perfect for quickly combining sauces, saving time on preparation.

Ingredients

For the Meat 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

• 10 oz uncooked elbow macaroni

For the Sauce

• 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

Preparation:
Preheat oven to 350˚F. Cook pasta according to package directions, then drain and set aside. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add beef, onion, mushrooms, celery, and bell pepper to the pan. Cook until beef is browned (about 10 minutes), then season with salt and pepper. Blitz together sugar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, tomatoes, tomato paste, vegetable stock, salt, and pepper in a blender or food processor. Stir in 1/2 cup cheese. Add beef mixture and macaroni to a 9”x13” baking dish; top with sauce. Stir well to combine. Top with remaining cheese and bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbling.

How to Make Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350˚F (175˚C) so it’s ready for baking once you have everything prepared.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.

Step 3: Brown the Meat Mixture

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

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

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

Step 5: Combine Everything

In your prepared baking dish:
1. Add the cooked beef mixture along with elbow macaroni.
2. Pour the sauce over the top.
3. Stir well until everything is evenly coated in sauce.

Step 6: Bake

Top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese:
– Bake in your preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until it’s golden brown on top and bubbly around the edges.

Enjoy your delicious Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni!

How to Serve Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni

Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a comforting family meal or a dish for entertaining, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A mix of greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce paired with creamy dressing and croutons complements the macaroni well.

Enjoy with Garlic Bread

• Classic Garlic Bread: Toasted bread spread with garlic butter makes for a perfect side to soak up the sauce.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: Elevate the classic by adding cheese before toasting for extra flavor.

Add a Side of Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious and vibrant contrast.
• Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots add color and sweetness to your plate.

How to Perfect Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni

To elevate your Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni, consider these helpful tips for an even tastier dish.

• Bold flavors: Use fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor right before serving.
• Creamy texture: For a creamier sauce, stir in some cream cheese along with the cheese mixture.
• Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick that enhances the Creole flavor.
• Make ahead: Prepare the dish ahead of time and refrigerate. Bake it just before serving for convenience.
• Adjust cheese types: Mixing different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or mozzarella, can add depth to the flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni

Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni pairs beautifully with several side dishes that can complement its rich flavors. Here’s a list of delightful options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort alongside the macaroni.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and balances the richness of the macaroni.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is simple yet delicious, especially when grilled or boiled.
4. Baked Beans: Hearty baked beans offer a sweet and savory contrast to the dish.
5. Fried Green Tomatoes: Crispy fried green tomatoes introduce a Southern twist that pairs well with Creole flavors.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with vegetables adds nutrition while keeping things fresh.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls to ensure a delicious outcome.

• Boldly overcooking the pasta: Cooking the macaroni too long can make it mushy. Follow the package instructions and aim for al dente.
• Neglecting seasoning: Forgetting to season your beef and vegetables can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Skipping the cheese mix: Not blending half of the cheese into the sauce can result in uneven cheesiness. Always incorporate some cheese into the sauce for a richer taste.
• Using low-quality tomatoes: Low-quality canned tomatoes can affect the dish’s flavor. Choose high-quality stewed tomatoes for the best results.
• Not baking long enough: Undercooking in the oven may leave your dish watery. Bake it until it’s golden brown and bubbling for optimal texture.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni will last up to 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni

• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure it’s cooled completely before freezing.

Reheating Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni?

Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni is a flavorful baked pasta dish that combines ground beef with spices, vegetables, and plenty of cheese.

Can I customize Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables or use various types of cheese based on your preference.

How can I make Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni vegetarian?

Simply substitute ground beef with plant-based meat or skip it entirely and add more vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni?

Consider adding some hot sauce or Cajun seasoning for extra spice. Fresh herbs like parsley can also brighten up the dish!

Conclusion

Woolworth’s Creole Macaroni is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by swapping out ingredients or adding your favorite spices. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!