Skillet Casserole
A hearty skillet casserole combining ground beef, fresh vegetables, and tender pasta, all simmered to develop rich flavors. Perfect for family dinners, it offers a comforting, savory meal with a balance of tomato tang and seasoned goodness, suitable for those craving a filling and flavorful dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put oil in skillet.
- Add hamburger, onions, and green pepper. Brown.
- Pour off excess grease and add cooked tomatoes.
- Simmer for 1 hour.
- Add macaroni and cook another 20 minutes or until tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken in place of hamburger. You can also incorporate other vegetables like zucchini or corn for a more colorful dish. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in some cheese before serving. Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed. This recipe is versatile, so feel free to explore your favorite combinations.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Skillet Casserole with a fresh side like Summertime Salad for a refreshing contrast. It also pairs beautifully with crusty bread or rolls to soak up the delicious sauce. For a complete meal, consider offering a side of steamed vegetables or a simple green salad. This dish is filling enough to stand alone, but these sides can elevate your dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to retain moisture, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Skillet Casserole contains roughly 868 calories, with 25g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 57g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (77% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (60% of the Daily Value), and protein (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1563mg per serving (68% 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 other types of pasta instead of macaroni?
Absolutely! While macaroni is traditional, you can use any short pasta like penne or fusilli. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose. Cooking times may vary slightly, so check for doneness as you add the pasta to the skillet.
Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the hamburger and using plant-based ground meat or lentils for protein. Additionally, adding more vegetables like mushrooms and spinach can enhance the dish's texture and flavor, making it a satisfying meal without meat.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Certainly! You can prep the ingredients the night before and assemble the casserole in the skillet. Just cover and refrigerate overnight. When ready to cook, just follow the instructions, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time as the ingredients will be cold. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights.
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).