Beef Macaroni Skillet
A hearty and flavorful skillet dish featuring seasoned ground beef, tender macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this comforting meal combines savory, tangy, and mild spicy notes, appealing to families and anyone craving a satisfying, quick-to-make dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onion in a 12-inch skillet.
- Add tomato sauce or juice, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, salt, pepper, and dry mustard to the skillet.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes or until the macaroni is tender, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding garlic powder or fresh garlic when browning the beef and onions. If you don't have elbow macaroni, any small pasta shape will work. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. To add a bit of heat, try mixing in some red pepper flakes or hot sauce. This Beef Macaroni Skillet is also reminiscent of classic American recipes like Mom's Goulash.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Beef Macaroni Skillet with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. It pairs well with steamed vegetables or a light coleslaw. For a comforting twist, consider topping it with shredded cheese or fresh herbs just before serving. This dish is hearty enough to stand alone but can also complement other beef recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef Macaroni Skillet contains roughly 177 calories, with 5g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (170% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1831mg per serving (80% 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 wheat macaroni instead of regular?
Yes, whole wheat macaroni is a great substitute and will add a nutty flavor along with extra fiber. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as whole wheat pasta may require a slightly longer cooking time to reach the desired tenderness.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils for a vegetarian option. Additionally, use vegetable broth instead of meat-based sauces to maintain the dish's flavor profile while keeping it meat-free.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Beef Macaroni Skillet ahead of time. Cook it fully, let it cool, and then store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights.
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).