Meal-In-A-Mug
A hearty and satisfying one-mug meal combining ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and pasta, seasoned with Sloppy Joe mix. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this dish offers bold flavors and comforting textures, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a filling portable meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, brown the ground beef; drain excess fat.
- Add water, pork and beans, tomatoes with liquid, and Sloppy Joe mix to the saucepan. Bring to a boil.
- Add elbow macaroni to the mixture, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes or until the macaroni is almost cooked.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker preparation, use pre-cooked ground beef or substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option. You can replace elbow macaroni with any small pasta like shells or orzo. If you like a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. This dish can be customized further by incorporating veggies like bell peppers or corn, making it similar to American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Meal-In-A-Mug hot, garnished with shredded cheese or fresh herbs like parsley for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or crusty bread. For an easy variation, consider serving it alongside Biscuit Barbecups for a fun twist. This dish is hearty enough to stand alone but also invites creative sides.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or heat in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. This meal is great for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meal-In-A-Mug contains roughly 757 calories, with 6g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 80g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (17% of the Daily Value) and protein (11% 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 recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by substituting the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or simply using more beans and vegetables. Consider adding lentils or chickpeas for protein, and use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add spice, try incorporating diced green chilies, crushed red pepper flakes, or a few dashes of hot sauce while cooking. You can also serve it with jalapeños on the side for those who enjoy extra heat, creating a personalized flavor experience.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! This meal freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or microwave until hot throughout.
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).