Ern'S Skillet Macaroni And Beef
Ern's Skillet Macaroni and Beef offers a hearty, comforting meal with savory ground beef, tender macaroni, and flavorful tomato sauce. The green peppers and onions add a fresh touch, making it a family-friendly dish perfect for weeknights and satisfying for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet; remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, cook the macaroni, chopped onions, and chopped green pepper in the beef fat until the macaroni turns yellow.
- Return the cooked beef to the skillet; add the tomato sauce, water, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Cover and simmer for 25 minutes or until the macaroni is cooked to your liking. If it becomes too dry, add another can of tomato sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of lean ground beef and Italian sausage. You can also swap elbow macaroni with other pasta shapes like shells or penne. If you want to add more veggies, diced tomatoes or frozen peas work well. Be careful not to overcook the macaroni; it should be al dente before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a sprinkle of shredded cheese or fresh herbs on top. It’s a perfect option for family dinners or potlucks, and is sure to be a hit with those who enjoy American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or extra tomato sauce to keep it moist, and heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ern'S Skillet Macaroni And Beef contains roughly 484 calories, with 24g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (101% of the Daily Value), protein (48% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2052mg per serving (89% 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 a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Alternatively, for a vegetarian version, consider using lentils or a plant-based meat substitute, adjusting the cooking time as necessary.
What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce on hand, you can make a quick substitute using soy sauce mixed with a little vinegar and sugar. This will give a similar depth of flavor that complements the dish well.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the skillet macaroni and beef ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it on the stove, adding a bit of water or sauce to prevent it from drying out. It’s a great make-ahead meal 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).