Beef And Macaroni Skillet Meal
A hearty skillet meal combining seasoned ground beef, tender macaroni, and tomatoes, perfect for a quick, flavorful dinner that appeals to the whole family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- On high heat, brown the onion and ground beef together in a skillet.
- Add the uncooked elbow macaroni, tomatoes, salt, and sugar to the skillet.
- Place a cover over the skillet.
- When steam comes from the vent, turn the heat to low.
- Allow to cook for 30 minutes without removing the lid.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cheese at the end. You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a bit more flavor, add garlic or bell peppers when browning the meat. Using whole wheat elbow macaroni could increase the nutritional value of your dish. This meal is great for busy nights as it can be made in one skillet, minimizing cleanup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Beef And Macaroni Skillet Meal with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A sprinkle of grated cheese on top just before serving can enhance its flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with breadsticks or garlic bread for a comforting dinner experience. Consider browsing more American recipes for additional meal ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth if it appears dry. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef And Macaroni Skillet Meal contains roughly 269 calories, with 13g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (54% of the Daily Value) and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1814mg per serving (79% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole grain macaroni instead of regular elbow macaroni?
Yes, whole grain macaroni is a great alternative and adds extra fiber to the dish. Just be aware that whole grain pasta may require a slightly longer cooking time, so adjust accordingly to ensure it's cooked to your liking.
What can I add for extra flavor?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding spices like paprika, Italian seasoning, or red pepper flakes to the mixture. You can also incorporate vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for added nutrition and taste. A dash of Worcestershire sauce can also deepen the flavor profile.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, this Beef And Macaroni Skillet Meal can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and follow the reheating instructions.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).