Saucy Skillet Supper
A hearty, cheesy skillet dish combining pasta, ground beef, and vegetables in a savory tomato sauce, perfect for quick weeknight dinners and satisfying family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare macaroni according to package directions and drain.
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef, sliced celery, and chopped onion until browned.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet.
- Add canned tomatoes (breaking them up with a spoon), tomato sauce, salt, and pepper to the skillet.
- Simmer the mixture for 15 minutes.
- Stir in the cooked macaroni and heat on low for an additional 5 minutes.
- Just before serving, stir in grated Cheddar cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try substituting ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also add in some chopped bell peppers or spinach for extra veggies. If you prefer a creamier dish, stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving. This saucy skillet supper is reminiscent of Easy Stewfort Collins, Colorado, making it a comforting choice any night of the week.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Quickie Casserole With Hamburger for a family-friendly dinner option. For a bit of crunch, consider topping with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs before serving, adding texture and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but cover them to prevent drying out. Adding a splash of water can help maintain moisture during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Saucy Skillet Supper contains roughly 489 calories, with 23g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (91% of the Daily Value), protein (46% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 937mg per serving (41% 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 in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the jumbo macaroni with other pasta shapes like penne or rotini. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package directions to ensure it remains al dente.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or add more vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of tomato sauce for added flavor.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers for up to 2 months. Ensure the dish is completely cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, and add a little water if it appears dry.
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).