Chuck Wagon Skillet Dinner
A hearty skillet dinner combining ground beef, cheese, vegetables, and noodles for a satisfying meal perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put all ingredients in a large covered skillet.
- Cook onions until tender.
- Add ground beef, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Brown the meat slowly, turning often.
- Layer cheese, chopped celery, and sliced olives over the meat.
- Add uncooked noodles on top.
- Pour stewed tomatoes and water over all ingredients.
- Cover the skillet and bring to a boil.
- Do not remove the cover while cooking.
- Turn heat to low and simmer for 30 to 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a can of Rich And Zesty Mushroom Soup to the skillet. You can also substitute ground turkey for a leaner option or use whole grain noodles to boost nutrition. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can enhance the dish's freshness. Ensure you stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
This Chuck Wagon Skillet Dinner pairs beautifully with a simple garden salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve with crusty bread or cornbread. Consider complementing the dish with a side of American recipes like Beefy Corn Bread for a comforting, satisfying dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out, and cover until heated through. Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish until warm, stirring halfway for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chuck Wagon Skillet Dinner contains roughly 446 calories, with 14g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (28% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2625mg per serving (114% 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 different types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for grated cheese, you can use any meltable cheese such as mozzarella, cheddar, or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Mixing cheeses can also add depth to the flavor and richness of the dish.
How do I adjust the cooking time if I use cooked noodles?
If you choose to use cooked noodles, reduce the simmering time to about 15-20 minutes. You want to ensure everything is heated through without overcooking the noodles. Just add them along with the stewed tomatoes and water, mixing gently to combine.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Certainly! Feel free to include vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or peas to enhance the nutritional value and flavor. Just chop them finely and add them with the onions in the initial steps for even cooking.
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).