Dunbar Macaroni with Beef
Nearly every cook in Newberry County makes his or her own rendition of Dunbar macaroni. In Gourmet's kitchens, we combined some favorite additions to the basic recipe to come up with this version.
Nearly every cook in Newberry County makes his or her own rendition of Dunbar macaroni. In Gourmet's kitchens, we combined some favorite additions to the basic recipe to come up with this version.
- 1 tablespoon worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 1/2 stick unsalted butter, melted
- 1 lb boneless chuck, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 (14 1/2-oz) can beef broth
- 1(28- to 32-oz) can whole tomatoes in purã©e
- 2 cups fresh bread crumbs
- 1 lb sharp cheddar, grated (4 cups)
- Carbohydrate 54 g(18%)
- Cholesterol 52 mg(17%)
- Fat 13 g(20%)
- Fiber 4 g(17%)
- Protein 23 g(45%)
- Saturated Fat 6 g(32%)
- Sodium 537 mg(22%)
- Calories 423
Step-by-step
- Simmer chuck in broth in a 2-quart saucepan, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until meat is very tender, about 1 hour.
- While meat simmers, break up tomatoes by squeezing them into a bowl with puree. Cook onion in half of butter in a 4-quart saucepan over moderate heat, stirring, until softened. Add tomatoes with puree, Worcestershire sauce, and sugar, then simmer, stirring occasionally, 15 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- To make topping, toss together bread crumbs, 1 cup Cheddar, remaining melted butter, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook macaroni in boiling salted water until al dente, then drain in a colander. Cool macaroni 3 minutes, then transfer to a large bowl. Toss with tomato sauce, beef with broth, remaining 3 cups cheese, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer macaroni mixture to a buttered 13- by 9- by 2-inch glass baking dish and spoon topping evenly over. Bake in middle of oven, uncovered, 25 minutes, or until topping is golden brown and mixture is bubbling.
My Family's Favorite Comfort Food: Dunbar Macaroni with Beef
As a busy mom, finding time to cook a delicious and satisfying meal for my family can feel like a Herculean task. Weeknights are often a whirlwind of homework, extracurricular activities, and the general chaos of family life. But there’s one dish that always manages to bring us all together – our family’s version of Dunbar Macaroni with Beef. It's a recipe passed down, adapted, and perfected over years of family dinners, and it consistently delivers a hearty and comforting meal that everyone enjoys.
This isn't just any macaroni and cheese; it's a culinary journey. The rich, savory beef simmered in broth provides a depth of flavor that elevates the dish beyond the ordinary. The homemade tomato sauce, simmered slowly to perfection, adds a bright, tangy counterpoint to the richness of the cheese and beef. And the crispy, golden-brown breadcrumb topping? Let's just say it's the perfect finishing touch. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. It's easy enough for a weeknight dinner, yet elegant enough to serve to guests.
What I love most about this dish is the way it brings back memories. The aroma alone transports me back to my childhood, filled with the warmth of family gatherings and the cozy comfort of a home-cooked meal. It's a dish that’s as much about the experience as it is about the food itself. It's about slowing down, gathering around the table, and sharing stories and laughter. And that's what makes it truly special. It’s become more than just a meal; it’s a symbol of togetherness, a comforting ritual in the midst of our busy lives.
The process of making Dunbar Macaroni with Beef is almost as enjoyable as eating it. The slow simmering of the beef, the careful preparation of the tomato sauce, and the satisfying act of layering the ingredients before baking create a sense of ritual and calm amidst the chaos of daily life. It's a therapeutic experience, a moment of mindfulness in an often frenetic world. And the result? A dish that nourishes not just the body, but also the soul.
So, the next time you’re looking for a hearty, comforting, and undeniably delicious meal that's perfect for a weeknight or a special occasion, try making Dunbar Macaroni with Beef. You'll discover it's not just a recipe; it's a love letter to family, tradition, and the simple joys of home-cooked goodness. It's a reminder that even in the midst of our busy lives, there's always time for a delicious and comforting meal shared with loved ones.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce for a little kick.
- Cheese variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack is a delicious option.
- Add vegetables: Enhance the flavor and nutrition by adding chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the tomato sauce.
- Make it ahead: The macaroni and cheese can be assembled ahead of time and baked just before serving.
This recipe is more than just a dish; it’s a testament to the power of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary through love, care, and a little bit of time in the kitchen. It's a recipe that nourishes the soul, bringing family and friends together around a table filled with warmth, laughter, and the comforting aroma of home-cooked goodness. And that, my friends, is what truly makes it special.
