Skillet Beef And Macaroni
Skillet Beef and Macaroni is a hearty one-pan dish that combines seasoned ground beef with macaroni and a rich tomato sauce. The addition of green peppers and chili powder gives it a comforting yet slightly spicy flavor. Perfect for family dinners or a quick weeknight meal, this dish satisfies with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a skillet, cook beef and onion until the meat is browned and onion is tender.
- Drain.
- Stir in the remaining ingredients; bring to boil.
- Reduce heat; cover and simmer until macaroni is tender, about 20 minutes.
- Stir occasionally, adding additional water if needed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using ground chuck or adding a splash of beef broth along with the water. You can substitute elbow macaroni with any small pasta shape if preferred. To boost nutrition, add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. If you're short on time, pre-cooked macaroni can be added towards the end of cooking to reduce simmering time and make this dish even quicker.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. For added flavor, top with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream before serving. It pairs beautifully with American recipes like Jiffy Beef Stroganoff for a comforting dinner. You can also sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a touch of freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Skillet Beef and Macaroni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking, or microwave in short intervals until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Skillet Beef And Macaroni contains roughly 194 calories, with 6g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (125% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1797mg per serving (78% 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 meat in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the meat's fat content, so ensure it's cooked through.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for this dish?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat substitute. Additionally, consider increasing the quantity of vegetables for a hearty vegetarian version that still delivers on flavor.
How do I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider increasing the chili powder or adding crushed red pepper flakes. You could also incorporate diced jalapeños or serve with hot sauce on the side for those who prefer a kick in their meal.
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).