One Pan Curly-Roni
A hearty one-pan pasta dish featuring flavorful ground beef, savory spaghetti sauce, and curly-roni macaroni, perfect for quick weeknight dinners and satisfying cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 4-quart saucepan, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Stir in spaghetti sauce, water, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil.
- Add curly-roni macaroni and return to a boil.
- Cover and cook on low for 10 minutes or until macaroni is tender.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and simmer, uncovered, until thickened.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding chopped onions or garlic while browning the ground beef. If you prefer a lighter version, swap half the ground beef for turkey or chicken. You can also use whole wheat curly-roni for a healthier option. Make sure to stir occasionally while cooking to prevent the pasta from sticking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve One Pan Curly-Roni with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top adds a nice touch. It pairs beautifully with Linda'S Goulash(Quick 'N Easy) for those looking for hearty comfort food options. Consider offering grated cheese at the table for guests to add to their liking.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of water or a bit of extra spaghetti sauce to the pan to prevent the pasta from drying out. Heat over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of One Pan Curly-Roni contains roughly 231 calories, with 18g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (104% of the Daily Value) and protein (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1973mg per serving (86% 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 pasta?
Yes, you can substitute curly-roni with any small pasta shape like elbows or shells. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose, ensuring it remains al dente.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or cooked lentils for a hearty vegetarian version. Adjust the seasoning to enhance the flavors according to your taste.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
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).