Easy Skillet Macaroni And Beef
A hearty skillet meal combining seasoned ground beef, tender macaroni, and vibrant vegetables in a savory tomato sauce, perfect for quick family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Lightly brown the ground beef in a skillet; remove from heat.
- Cook macaroni, minced onion, and chopped green pepper in the beef fat until the onion is soft. If the beef fat is insufficient to prevent sticking, add Wesson corn oil.
- Return the cooked beef to the skillet.
- Add tomato sauce, water, salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Cover and simmer for 25 minutes, or until the macaroni is cooked to your taste.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of ground meats like beef and pork. If you don't have elbow macaroni, any pasta shape will work. To add some heat, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. If you're short on time, pre-cooked macaroni can be added directly to the skillet with the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the skillet macaroni and beef with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a side of Red And Green Cabbage Salad for a refreshing crunch. For a complete meal, consider adding garlic bread or a simple green salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the skillet and warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, microwave in a covered bowl for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Skillet Macaroni And Beef contains roughly 733 calories, with 19g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 60g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (37% of the Daily Value) and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1649mg per serving (72% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be excellent substitutes for ground chuck. While they may produce a slightly different flavor, they will still yield a delicious dish. Just be mindful of cooking times, as leaner meats may cook faster.
What can I add to make it healthier?
To boost the nutritional value, consider adding vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms. You can also swap out regular pasta for whole grain or gluten-free options. For a lighter version, use lean ground turkey instead of beef.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before serving. Just follow the recipe until the simmering step, let it cool completely, then store it in a sealed container. When ready to serve, reheat on the stove or in the microwave until hot.
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).