Save Pin A hearty, comforting skillet dish featuring tender BBQ pork ribs, creamy macaroni, and a tangy barbecue sauce, all baked together for irresistible flavor.
I first made this skillet on a chilly night when all I had in the fridge were leftover ribs and pasta. It always brings everyone to the table thanks to its smoky, cheesy layers.
Ingredients
- Cooked pork ribs: 1 lb (meat removed from the bone and shredded)
- Elbow macaroni: 10 oz
- Red onion: 1 small, finely chopped
- Red bell pepper: 1, diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Barbecue sauce: 1 1/4 cups
- Chicken broth: 1/2 cup
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 cup
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: 1/2 cup
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Salt: 1/4 tsp
- Fresh parsley (optional): 2 tbsp, chopped
- Sliced green onions (optional): for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Oven:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Cook Macaroni:
- Boil macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside
- Sauté Vegetables:
- In a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat, cook onion and bell pepper for 4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more
- Add Rib Meat and Seasonings:
- Stir in shredded rib meat, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Warm through for 2 minutes
- Simmer Sauce:
- Add barbecue sauce and chicken broth; mix well and simmer for 3 minutes
- Combine:
- Fold in cooked macaroni and half the cheddar cheese until evenly combined
- Top with Cheese:
- Sprinkle remaining cheddar and all mozzarella cheese on top
- Bake:
- Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until bubbly and golden
- Finish and Garnish:
- Let rest 5 minutes. Garnish with parsley and green onions before serving
Save Pin This dish quickly became a weeknight favorite in our household, and it is always requested for family gatherings because everyone loves the combination of smoky meat and creamy macaroni.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this skillet with a crisp green salad or refreshing coleslaw to balance the richness, making it a complete meal for dinner.
Ingredient Swaps
Try using rotisserie chicken or jackfruit for a different protein, and feel free to add a dash of hot sauce or chipotle for a little extra heat.
Nutrition Facts
Each serving provides about 640 calories, 25 g fat, 70 g carbohydrates, and 34 g protein.
Save Pin A little smoky rib and melty cheese make this skillet a crowd-pleaser every time. You can enjoy any leftovers for lunch the next day.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can other proteins be used instead of pork ribs?
Yes, rotisserie chicken or jackfruit are great alternatives for different dietary preferences.
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Elbow macaroni holds sauce well and bakes evenly in the skillet, making it an ideal choice.
- → How can I add a spicy kick to the skillet?
Incorporate a dash of hot sauce or chipotle pepper to enhance the heat and depth of flavor.
- → Is it necessary to bake the skillet after combining ingredients?
Baking melts the cheese topping and helps meld flavors while creating a bubbly, golden crust.
- → What garnishes pair well with this dish?
Chopped fresh parsley and sliced green onions add a bright, fresh finish to the rich skillet.
- → Are there common allergens to consider?
This dish contains dairy, gluten, and pork; always check barbecue sauce labels for possible allergens.