BBQ Beef Macaroni Skillet: Easy One-Pan Recipe

BBQ Beef Macaroni Skillet: Get ready to ditch the same old weeknight dinners because I’m about to introduce you to a flavor explosion that’s both comforting and incredibly easy to make! Imagine tender ground beef simmered in a smoky, tangy barbecue sauce, all nestled within a creamy, cheesy macaroni base. Sounds amazing, right?

This isn’t your grandma’s mac and cheese (though we love her version too!). This BBQ Beef Macaroni Skillet is a modern twist on a classic comfort food, borrowing inspiration from the American South’s love affair with barbecue and the universal appeal of cheesy pasta. While the exact origins are a bit hazy, the combination of barbecue and macaroni has been a beloved pairing at potlucks and family gatherings for years. It’s a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into something truly special.

What makes this dish so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. The barbecue sauce adds a depth of flavor that elevates the macaroni and cheese to a whole new level. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient! This one-pan wonder minimizes cleanup, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The creamy texture, the satisfying chew of the macaroni, and the rich, meaty flavor all combine to create a truly unforgettable meal. Trust me, once you try this BBQ Beef Macaroni Skillet, it will become a regular in your dinner rotation!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand!)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Optional toppings: chopped green onions, sour cream

Preparing the Beef and Vegetables:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet (cast iron is ideal) over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. Make sure to get all the beef browned for the best flavor!
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell peppers to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. You want the onions to be translucent and the peppers to be slightly tender.
3. Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (undrained), beef broth, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your liking! If you prefer a sweeter BBQ flavor, add a little more BBQ sauce. If you like it spicier, add a pinch more cayenne.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will be.

Cooking the Macaroni:

1. While the beef mixture is simmering, cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions. Be sure to cook it al dente, as it will continue to cook in the skillet. Overcooked macaroni will become mushy in the final dish, so keep a close eye on it!
2. Once the macaroni is cooked, drain it well.

Combining and Baking:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Add the drained macaroni to the skillet with the beef and vegetable mixture. Stir well to combine, ensuring that the macaroni is evenly coated in the sauce.
3. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the macaroni mixture. Don’t skimp on the cheese! A generous layer of cheese is what makes this dish so irresistible.
4. Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the sauce is heated through. The top should be lightly golden brown.
5. Remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and prevents it from being too runny.

Serving and Optional Toppings:

1. Serve the BBQ beef macaroni skillet hot, directly from the skillet.
2. Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as chopped green onions and a dollop of sour cream. Other great options include crumbled bacon, chopped cilantro, or a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce. Get creative and customize it to your taste!

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up: For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture. You can also use a spicy BBQ sauce.
• Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the skillet, such as corn, black beans, or diced tomatoes.
• Use different cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground beef or lentils for a vegetarian version.
• Slow Cooker Option: You can adapt this recipe for the slow cooker. Brown the beef and vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients (except the macaroni and cheese) and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cooked macaroni and cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Freezer Friendly: This dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat leftover BBQ beef macaroni skillet in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of beef broth or water if needed to prevent it from drying out.

Detailed Ingredient Notes:

• Ground Beef: I prefer using lean ground beef (85/15) to minimize the amount of grease. However, you can use any ground beef you prefer. Just be sure to drain off any excess grease after browning.
• Olive Oil: You can substitute olive oil with any other cooking oil, such as vegetable oil or canola oil.
• Onion: Yellow or white onion works best in this recipe.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is always best, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder to substitute for 2 cloves of garlic.
• Bell Peppers: I like to use a combination of green and red bell peppers for color and flavor, but you can use any color you prefer.
• Tomato Sauce: Use a good quality tomato sauce for the best flavor.
• Diced Tomatoes: I prefer to use diced tomatoes with their juice, but you can use crushed tomatoes or tomato puree if you prefer.
• Beef Broth: You can substitute beef broth with chicken broth or vegetable broth if needed.
• BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite brand of BBQ sauce. I recommend using a BBQ sauce that is not too sweet or too spicy, as the flavors will intensify during baking.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Worcestershire sauce adds a savory, umami flavor to the dish.
• Smoked Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a smoky flavor that complements the BBQ sauce.
• Chili Powder: Chili powder adds a mild heat and depth of flavor.
• Cayenne Pepper: Cayenne pepper is optional, but it adds a nice kick of heat.
• Elbow Macaroni: You can substitute elbow macaroni with any other small pasta shape, such as penne, rotini, or shells.
• Cheddar Cheese: I recommend using sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor, but you can use any type of cheddar cheese you prefer.

Equipment You’ll Need:

• Large oven-safe skillet (cast iron is ideal)
• Large pot
• Colander
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

• Calories: Approximately 600-700 per serving
• Protein: 30-40 grams
• Fat: 30-40 grams
• Carbohydrates: 50-60 grams

Enjoy your delicious BBQ Beef Macaroni Skillet!

Conclusion:

This BBQ beef macaroni skillet is more than just a meal; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen in your kitchen! I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a quick, satisfying, and utterly delicious dinner option. The combination of savory ground beef, smoky BBQ sauce, tender macaroni, and melty cheese creates a symphony of textures and tastes that will have everyone coming back for seconds (and maybe even thirds!).

What makes this recipe so special? It’s the perfect balance of comfort food and bold flavors. The BBQ sauce adds a tangy sweetness that complements the richness of the beef and cheese, while the macaroni provides a comforting base that ties everything together. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile!

Looking for serving suggestions? I love to serve this skillet with a side of coleslaw for a cool and crunchy contrast. A simple green salad also works wonders, adding a touch of freshness to the meal. For a heartier option, consider pairing it with some grilled corn on the cob. And don’t forget the toppings! A sprinkle of chopped green onions, a dollop of sour cream, or a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce can elevate this dish to the next level.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Feel free to experiment with variations to make this recipe your own. Try using different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or smoked gouda for a deeper, smokier flavor. You can also add vegetables like diced bell peppers, onions, or even some chopped jalapenos for extra heat. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using pulled pork instead of ground beef for an even more authentic BBQ experience. For a vegetarian option, substitute the beef with plant-based crumbles or black beans. The possibilities are endless!

This BBQ beef macaroni skillet is also perfect for meal prepping. You can easily make a large batch on Sunday and enjoy it throughout the week. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven, making it a convenient and delicious option for busy weeknights. It’s also a great dish to bring to potlucks or gatherings. I guarantee it will be a crowd-pleaser!

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the deliciousness for yourself. I’ve poured my heart into creating a dish that is both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. I truly believe that this BBQ beef macaroni skillet will become a staple in your household.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. And most importantly, don’t forget to share your experience with me! I would love to hear your feedback, see your photos, and learn about any variations you’ve tried. Tag me on social media or leave a comment below. I can’t wait to see what you create! Happy cooking!