Macaroni-Beef Skillet Supper
A hearty and flavorful skillet dish combining tender macaroni, seasoned ground beef, and a savory tomato-based sauce. This comforting meal is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a balanced mix of protein and pasta with a tangy, slightly sweet flavor profile that appeals to families and casual diners alike.
Ingredients
- 1 cup elbow macaroni ⓘ
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 cup diced onions ⓘ
- 1 clove garlic ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 (8 oz.) can tomato sauce ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper ⓘ
- 1 cup catsup ⓘ
- 1 (8 oz.) can mushroom stems and pieces, drained
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning ⓘ
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni in boiling water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Saute the ground beef, diced onions, and mashed garlic in oil until the meat loses its pink color and the onions are tender.
- Add salt, black pepper, tomato sauce, catsup, drained mushrooms, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning to the meat mixture.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and then simmer gently for about 5 minutes.
- Mix in the cooked macaroni and simmer for an additional 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute lean ground turkey for the beef. Adding drained black beans can also enhance the dish's protein content. Experiment with different pasta shapes like penne or shells for variety. For added flavor, consider sautéing additional vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini. This dish is a great way to use leftovers or incorporate ingredients from recipes like Johnny Marzetti.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty macaroni-beef skillet supper with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. It also pairs well with steamed vegetables or a simple coleslaw. For a comforting twist, consider serving it with a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top or alongside dishes like Beef And Bean Casserole for a satisfying dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the skillet supper in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking, and stir until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe dish, covered, for about 2-3 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni-Beef Skillet Supper contains roughly 425 calories, with 6g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1056mg per serving (46% 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 macaroni-beef skillet supper ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture and macaroni ahead of time. Simply cook the beef and sauce, then store it separately from the cooked macaroni. When ready to serve, combine them in a skillet and heat through. This saves time on busy weeknights and allows flavors to meld beautifully.
What can I use instead of tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce, you can substitute it with crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes for a chunkier texture. Alternatively, use a combination of tomato paste and water to achieve a similar consistency. Just adjust the seasoning to your taste, as different tomato products can vary in acidity.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or lentils for a vegetarian version. You can also add more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach to enhance the flavor and nutrition. This adaptation not only makes it vegetarian-friendly but also adds a colorful variety to the dish.
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).