Save A hearty, comforting skillet dish featuring tender BBQ pork ribs, creamy macaroni, and a tangy barbecue sauce, all baked together for irresistible flavor.
I tried this recipe last weekend on a chilly evening, and my family couldn't stop raving about how satisfying and flavorful it was. The savory rib meat and cheese made for the ultimate comfort food.
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Ingredients
- Cooked pork ribs: 1 lb (450 g), meat removed from the bone and shredded
- Elbow macaroni: 10 oz (280 g)
- Red onion: 1 small, finely chopped
- Red bell pepper: 1, diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Barbecue sauce: 1 1/4 cups (300 ml)
- Chicken broth: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Cheddar cheese: 1 cup (115 g), shredded
- Mozzarella cheese: 1/2 cup (60 g), shredded
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Salt: 1/4 tsp
- Chopped fresh parsley: 2 tbsp (optional for garnish)
- Sliced green onions: (optional for garnish)
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Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Cook Macaroni:
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- In a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion and bell pepper for 4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
- Add Ribs & Seasonings:
- Stir in the shredded rib meat, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Warm through for 2 minutes.
- Add Sauce:
- Add the barbecue sauce and chicken broth; mix well and simmer for 3 minutes.
- Combine Pasta & Cheese:
- Fold in the cooked macaroni and half the cheddar cheese until evenly combined.
- Top & Bake:
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and all the mozzarella on top. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Garnish & Serve:
- Let rest 5 minutes. Garnish with parsley and green onions before serving.
Save This skillet bake quickly became a staple after we made it for a Sunday dinner. Everyone helped themselves to seconds, and the pan was emptied in minutes.
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Required Tools
Large oven-safe skillet, saucepan, chefs knife, cutting board, grater, measuring cups and spoons
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 640, Total Fat: 25 g, Carbohydrates: 70 g, Protein: 34 g
Notes
Substitute rotisserie chicken or jackfruit for a different protein, add a touch of hot sauce for extra heat, and pair this skillet with a fresh green salad or coleslaw.
Save 
Make this BBQ rib macaroni skillet your go-to comfort dish for family gatherings. Its hearty flavor and ease will bring everyone to the table!
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute pork ribs with another protein?
Yes, rotisserie chicken or jackfruit are excellent alternatives that pair well with the barbecue sauce and seasonings.
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Elbow macaroni holds the sauce nicely and provides a classic texture, but other short pasta like penne or shells can also be used.
- → How do I prevent the macaroni from becoming mushy?
Cook the pasta al dente according to package instructions, then drain and set aside before combining with the other ingredients.
- → Is it necessary to bake the skillet mixture?
Baking melts the cheese thoroughly and creates a bubbly, golden top, enhancing texture and flavor.
- → Can I add spice to this dish?
Yes, adding hot sauce or chipotle pepper will give the skillet a pleasant spicy kick that complements the barbecue notes.
