Skillet Macaroni & Spam
A savory skillet dish combining seasoned ground meat, tender macaroni, vegetables, and a tangy tomato sauce, perfect for a comforting family meal or quick dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the meat in a large skillet until browned slightly.
- Remove the meat from the skillet and set aside.
- Add the uncooked macaroni, minced onion, and chopped green pepper to the skillet with the meat fat.
- Cook until the macaroni turns yellow, indicating it is lightly cooked.
- Return the meat to the skillet.
- Add tomato sauce, salt, pepper, water, and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet.
- Cover and simmer for 15 minutes or until the macaroni is cooked to your taste.
- Optional: Add one can of whole kernel corn for extra flavor and texture.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, consider browning the Spam or ground meat until crispy. This adds a nice texture and depth of flavor. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, try using ground turkey or chicken. You can also substitute the elbow macaroni with whole grain or gluten-free pasta. If time is short, pre-cooked pasta can be used to speed up the cooking process.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Skillet Macaroni & Spam hot, garnished with shredded cheese or chopped fresh herbs for added flavor. Pair it with a simple side salad or 'Seven Day' Slaw(From Hudson'S Restaurant In Hilton Head, South Carolina) for a refreshing contrast. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside some crusty bread or garlic knots.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. If you prefer, you can microwave it in a covered dish, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Skillet Macaroni & Spam contains roughly 385 calories, with 8g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (111% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2402mg per serving (104% 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 instead of Spam?
Absolutely! Ground beef, turkey, or chicken work well in this recipe. You can also opt for a plant-based ground meat substitute for a vegetarian version. Just ensure that the cooking times are adjusted according to the meat you choose.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you want to add some heat to your Skillet Macaroni & Spam, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the mix. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the top before serving for an extra kick.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! This dish is quite versatile. You can add frozen peas, diced tomatoes, or even spinach for added nutrition. Just add them along with the macaroni and cook until they are tender.
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).