Quick Skillet Macaroni
A hearty, flavorful skillet dish combining ground beef, tomatoes, and macaroni, perfect for quick weeknight dinners and satisfying all ages with its savory taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown beef and onion in shortening. Drain off excess fat.
- Stir in water, tomatoes, Heinz 57 sauce, sugar, and uncooked elbow macaroni.
- Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until macaroni is tender.
- Garnish with minced parsley if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or bell peppers while browning the beef and onion. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative. You can also use whole grain elbow macaroni for a healthier twist. Adjust the sugar to taste, especially if your tomatoes are very sweet.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Quick Skillet Macaroni with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Beefy Rice Dinner for a hearty spread. Consider garnishing with freshly minced parsley or shredded cheese to enhance the presentation and flavor. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Skillet Macaroni contains roughly 352 calories, with 6g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (139% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. It also contributes 9g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 elbow macaroni with any small pasta shape like penne or fusilli. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type, as some may require longer or shorter cooking periods to reach the desired tenderness.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when browning the beef. You can also use spicy diced tomatoes or a hot sauce of your choice to elevate the flavor and spice level of the dish.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the Quick Skillet Macaroni for up to three months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm in a skillet or microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of water can help maintain moisture.
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).