Beefaroni Skillet Dinner
A hearty one-pan pasta dish featuring ground beef, beans, and barbecue flavors, perfect for quick weeknight dinners and satisfying comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef in a skillet, then drain the excess fat.
- Add chopped onion to the skillet and stir well.
- Add the pork & beans, uncooked macaroni, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, and water to the skillet.
- Stir all ingredients together thoroughly.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until the macaroni is tender, adding more water if needed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding spices like garlic powder or smoked paprika to the beef while browning. If you're out of elbow macaroni, any small pasta shape works well. You can also substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a bit of heat, try adding some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Beefaroni with a side of crispy green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. It pairs beautifully with Green Beans With Hamburger for a hearty meal. You can also sprinkle some shredded cheese on top before serving for extra flavor. Enjoy it with garlic bread for a complete dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Beefaroni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to the skillet and heat over low until warmed through, stirring occasionally. This will help to prevent the pasta from drying out and ensure a creamy consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beefaroni Skillet Dinner contains roughly 426 calories, with 13g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 707mg per serving (31% 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Beefaroni up to a day in advance. Just follow the recipe, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat gently on the stove, adding a little water if necessary.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or simply use more beans and vegetables. Try adding bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor. This way, you'll still enjoy a hearty dish without the meat.
Can I freeze the Beefaroni?
Yes, Beefaroni can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stove, adding a little water if needed to maintain the desired consistency.
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).