Macaroni Buffet Skillet
A hearty skillet dish featuring seasoned ground beef, macaroni, corn, and tomatoes, offering comforting flavors perfect for weeknight family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook onions, garlic, green pepper, and ground beef in vegetable oil, stirring until meat is broken up and loses its red color.
- Add uncooked macaroni, corn, tomatoes, salt, pepper, cheese from the package, and water.
- Heat to boiling.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes or until macaroni is cooked, stirring frequently.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or a dollop of sour cream before serving. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you want more vegetables, feel free to toss in some diced carrots or peas. This dish also works well with different types of cheese if you want to experiment beyond the packet provided.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty macaroni buffet skillet with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It makes a fantastic weeknight dinner that pairs beautifully with Cheese Dip Or Sandwich Spread as a fun appetizer. Consider topping each serving with grated cheese or fresh herbs for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of water and microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. You can also reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little water if needed to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni Buffet Skillet contains roughly 900 calories, with 14g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 74g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (118% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (115% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (63% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 967mg per serving (42% 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 dish vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the ground beef and adding extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. You can also use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor, and ensure that your macaroni and cheese mix is meat-free.
What type of macaroni and cheese should I use?
Any brand of macaroni and cheese dinner will work, but for a creamier texture, opt for a brand that includes a cheese sauce packet. You can also try using a gluten-free version if you have dietary restrictions. Just ensure the cooking time remains the same.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, this macaroni buffet skillet can be frozen! Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then heat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
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).