Beef noodle skillet, a popular Pioneer Woman recipe, merges the heartiness of beef with the comfort of egg noodles, all prepared in a single skillet. A creation of Ree Drummond, a celebrity chef known for her home-style cooking on Food Network, this dish becomes a weeknight favorite for its simplicity and flavor profile.
It provides a satisfying meal that is both quick to prepare and family-friendly, making it a highly sought-after recipe for those busy evenings.
One of the most appealing aspects of the beef noodle skillet is its versatility. This skillet recipe can be adapted to include variations such as different types of pasta, cheeses, or even sour cream to add a creamy texture to the dish.
It’s also a practical way to use up any leftovers that may be lurking in the fridge. Not to mention, the entire meal is cooked in one skillet, which means less cleanup afterwards—a win for home cooks everywhere.
This Pioneer Woman beef noodle skillet is not just tasty but also tailored to be nutritious, complete with nutritional information listed to keep diners informed. Alongside this, tips on storage and serving suggestions ensure that this dish maintains its best quality and taste. Whether you’re a skilled cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this dish is forgiving and rewarding to prepare.
Why You Will Love This Pioneer Woman Beef Noodle Skillet Recipe
When Ree Drummond gifts the world with a hearty dish like the Pioneer Woman Beef Noodle Skillet, it’s almost guaranteed that the whole family will fall in love with it. This single skillet meal is a testament to Drummond’s ability to create comfort food that’s not just satisfying but also easy to prepare. Here are just a few reasons why this should become your next go-to recipe:
- Simple Ingredients: You are likely to have most of these ingredients on hand already. A mixture of common pantry staples and fresh elements makes this dish both accessible and flavorful.
- Family-Friendly: Designed to please palates of all ages, the Pioneer Woman’s skillet meal is balanced with the right texture and taste for a family dinner. A hit with both kids and adults, it might just become part of your weekly rotation.
- Comfort Food: There’s a rich, savory quality to the combining of beef and noodles that spells comfort. This recipe creates a warm, satisfying meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.
- Quick and Easy: Life can be hectic, and recipes that are quick to pull together are a blessing. Ready in under 30 minutes, this skillet serves up deliciousness in a snap, so you spend less time in the kitchen and more with loved ones.
- Hearty Meal: Generous and filling, each serving delivers a comforting balance of protein, carbohydrates, and flavor. It’s an ideal choice for days when you crave something substantial.
- Versatile: Feel free to customize. Swap the proteins or add veggies to suit your taste; this recipe is forgiving and adaptable.
- One-Skillet Wonder: Less cleanup is always a bonus, and since everything cooks in one large skillet, you’ll have fewer dishes to wash after dinner.
In making this dish, you’re not just preparing food; you’re creating memories around the table. It’s a recipe that stands as a testament to Drummond’s philosophy: food made with love brings people together.
How To Make Pioneer Woman Beef Noodle Skillet
Creating the Pioneer Woman Beef Noodle Skillet is straightforward and requires minimal cookware. This recipe forms a dish that is rich in flavor and is a family-friendly weeknight meal option. Here’s what’s needed:
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Beef
- 3 cups Beef Broth
- 2 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Black Pepper
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 2 cups Cheddar Cheese, shredded
- 2 tbsp Tomato Paste
- 1 Large Skillet
- 1 Dice (to dice the cheese)
- 12 oz Egg Noodles
Instruments
- Large Skillet
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Cheese Grater (if cheese is not pre-shredded)
- Stirring Spoon or Spatula
- Cutting Board (if cheese needs to be diced)
- Sharp Knife (for dicing cheese)
Step By Step Instruction of Pioneer Woman Beef Noodle Skillet
To create the Pioneer Woman Beef Noodle Skillet, begin by cooking the egg noodles. Follow the package instructions to make sure they’re cooked to al dente.
A key tip is to cook them for 1 to 2 minutes less than the suggested time for a perfect texture. Once done, drain and set aside.
Next, place a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and proceed to brown the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon.
Keep stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once the beef is fully browned, it’s time to craft your beef mixture. If needed, drain any excess fat before adding the next set of ingredients.
To the same skillet, add your spices, beef broth, a bit of tomato paste, and maybe a dash of Worcestershire sauce for a deeper flavor. Stir well to combine.
Then proceed to bring to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld. This simmering step is crucial to thicken the sauce slightly and heat all the ingredients through.
Incorporate the cooked egg noodles into the skillet with the beef mixture. Gently fold everything together, ensuring the noodles are well coated with the beefy sauce.
Lower the heat and let it simmer for a few additional minutes to combine the flavors. Remember to maintain the stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to distribute the heat.
Once everything is heated through and simmering nicely, remove the skillet from the heat. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated cheese for a touch of richness.
Serve hot directly from the skillet for a comforting meal that’s sure to satisfy.
Variation and Tips
When preparing the Pioneer Woman Beef Noodle Skillet, consider trying some of these variations and tips for an even more delicious experience:
Leftovers & Reheating:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat over medium-high heat until thoroughly warmed. Add a splash of beef broth if the mixture seems dry.
Cheese Variants:
- For a cheesy twist, mix in a cup of shredded cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack before serving. Alternatively, sprinkle cheese on top and broil until melted and bubbly.
- Substitute cottage cheese for sour cream for a tangier flavor profile.
Protein & Veggies:
- Switch out ground beef for ground turkey to lighten the dish.
- Incorporate veggies like peas or bell pepper for extra nutrition; sauté them until tender before adding the beef.
Seasonings & Sauces:
- Instead of tomato sauce, try diced tomatoes for a chunkier texture.
- Enhance the flavor with garlic powder or fresh garlic to complement the beef.
Finishing Touches:
- Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- To create a casserole, transfer the skillet mixture into a baking dish, top with more cheese, and bake until golden.
Remember, these are just suggestions to inspire your culinary creativity. Feel free to experiment and adjust according to your preferences.
How to Store Leftover Pioneer Woman Beef Noodle Skillet
When it comes to storing the Pioneer Woman Beef Noodle Skillet, proper methods ensure the quality and safety of leftovers.
Refrigeration:
- Cool Down: Allow the beef noodle skillet to cool completely before storing.
- Container: Transfer to an airtight container to prevent contamination and drying out.
- Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing:
- Preparation: For longer storage, freeze the skillet meal.
- Container: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, and remove as much air as possible.
- Duration: It can be stored frozen for 2-3 months.
Reheating:
- Thawing: If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on the microwave.
- Oven: Reheat in an oven preheated to 350°F, covered with foil to retain moisture.
- Microwave: For quick reheating, use a microwave-safe dish, cover to avoid splattering, and heat until warmed through.
- Stovetop: On the stovetop, reheat over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of beef broth or water to prevent drying.
When reheating, it is crucial to ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F as recommended for food safety. Consuming the beef noodle skillet within the recommended timeframe maximizes flavor and minimizes risk of foodborne illness.
Serving Suggestion for Pioneer Woman Beef Noodle Skillet
When presenting the Pioneer Woman Beef Noodle Skillet dish, a harmonious blend of textures and flavors is important. This skillet recipe, made famous by Ree Drummond on the Food Network, pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. To enhance the meal, consider the following:
- Salad: A light, green salad with a vinaigrette dressing complements the hearty nature of the beef noodle skillet.
- Vegetables: Steamed or roasted vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or green beans offer a splash of color and nutritional balance.
- Bread: Garlic bread or a crusty baguette serves as an excellent tool for scooping up any leftover sauce.
Texture and Flavor Contrast:
- Creaminess: A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese can add a creamy element that contrasts the savory beef.
- Freshness: Garnish with parsley or chives to introduce a fresh component to this rich, one-pan meal.
Pasta Alternatives:
- If egg noodles aren’t available, substitute with other pasta varieties like fusilli or penne. Ensure pasta is cooked to al dente to prevent it from becoming too soft when mixed with the beef skillet.
Serving Temperature:
- Serve the dish hot, straight from the skillet, to ensure the pasta and beef are enjoyed at their best quality and comfort.
Portion Size:
- For a family dinner, a heaping scoop served onto plates will satisfy. For individual servings, consider using bowls to contain the flavorful sauce.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: Estimates vary; approximately 400-500 per serving.
- Protein: Approximately 25-30 grams per serving.
- Fat: Around 15-20 grams per serving, with variations depending on specific ingredients like cheese and sour cream.
- Carbohydrates: About 40-50 grams per serving, largely from noodles and flour.
- Fiber: Generally 3-4 grams per serving, depending on the amount of vegetables used.
- Sugar: Usually low, but can range up to 5-6 grams per serving if using ingredients like tomato sauce.
- Sodium: Can be quite high, often over 500mg, due to broth and cheese; lower-sodium versions can be made with adjustments.
- Cholesterol: Varies, approximately 50-100mg per serving, influenced by the presence of ground beef and dairy products.
Vitamins and Minerals:
- Iron, from the beef, is present in meaningful quantities.
- Calcium, which is notable in dairy ingredients like cheese, is also featured.
- Potassium levels can be moderate due to the presence of tomato products and meat.
- Vitamin A and C might be included in smaller amounts from vegetables like bell peppers or tomatoes.
It should be noted that the exact nutritional content will depend on the specific ingredients and their quantities used to prepare the Pioneer Woman Beef Noodle Skillet. For more precise information, one should calculate based on the brands and quantities of ingredients used in the recipe.
Pioneer Woman Beef Noodle Skillet
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cheese Grater (if cheese is not pre-shredded)
- Stirring Spoon or Spatula
- Cutting Board (if cheese needs to be diced)
- Sharp Knife (for dicing cheese)
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Beef
- 3 cups Beef Broth
- 2 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Black Pepper
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 2 cups Cheddar Cheese shredded
- 2 tbsp Tomato Paste
- 1 Large Skillet
- 1 Dice to dice the cheese
- 12 oz Egg Noodles
Instructions
- To create the Pioneer Woman Beef Noodle Skillet, begin by cooking the egg noodles. Follow the package instructions to make sure they’re cooked to al dente.
- A key tip is to cook them for 1 to 2 minutes less than the suggested time for a perfect texture. Once done, drain and set aside.
- Next, place a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and proceed to brown the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Keep stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once the beef is fully browned, it’s time to craft your beef mixture. If needed, drain any excess fat before adding the next set of ingredients.
- To the same skillet, add your spices, beef broth, a bit of tomato paste, and maybe a dash of Worcestershire sauce for a deeper flavor. Stir well to combine.
- Then proceed to bring to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld. This simmering step is crucial to thicken the sauce slightly and heat all the ingredients through.
- Incorporate the cooked egg noodles into the skillet with the beef mixture. Gently fold everything together, ensuring the noodles are well coated with the beefy sauce.
- Lower the heat and let it simmer for a few additional minutes to combine the flavors. Remember to maintain the stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to distribute the heat.
- Once everything is heated through and simmering nicely, remove the skillet from the heat.
- If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated cheese for a touch of richness.
- Serve hot directly from the skillet for a comforting meal that’s sure to satisfy.
Notes
- Nutrition Facts
- Calories: Estimates vary; approximately 400-500 per serving.
- Protein: Approximately 25-30 grams per serving.
- Fat: Around 15-20 grams per serving, with variations depending on specific ingredients like cheese and sour cream.
- Carbohydrates: About 40-50 grams per serving, largely from noodles and flour.
- Fiber: Generally 3-4 grams per serving, depending on the amount of vegetables used.
- Sugar: Usually low, but can range up to 5-6 grams per serving if using ingredients like tomato sauce.
- Sodium: Can be quite high, often over 500mg, due to broth and cheese; lower-sodium versions can be made with adjustments.
- Cholesterol: Varies, approximately 50-100mg per serving, influenced by the presence of ground beef and dairy products.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Frequently Asked Questions section provides essential information for successfully preparing a Pioneer Woman Beef Noodle Skillet. This part specifically addresses common queries related to ingredients, cooking techniques, and variations to the recipe.
What ingredients are needed for a beef noodle skillet recipe?
For a beef noodle skillet recipe, one needs ground beef, egg noodles, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Additional elements like sour cream, shredded cheese, and parsley can be used as garnishes.
How long should egg noodles be cooked in a beef noodle skillet?
Egg noodles should be cooked in the beef mixture until they are al dente, which typically takes about 7-8 minutes. Be careful not to overcook as they will continue to absorb liquid and soften even after being removed from heat.
What are the steps to properly brown ground beef for a skillet dish?
To brown ground beef for a skillet dish, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, stirring occasionally, to ensure even browning and to break the meat into crumbles. Once the beef is fully cooked and no longer pink, it can be drained if necessary.
How can you thicken the sauce in beef and noodle recipes?
To thicken the sauce in beef and noodle recipes, one can create a slurry using cornstarch or flour mixed with a small amount of cold water. This mixture is then stirred into the sauce, and the dish is simmered until the desired thickness is achieved.
Can you substitute different noodles in a beef noodle skillet?
Yes, you can substitute different types of noodles such as fusilli, macaroni, or penne in a beef noodle skillet. Adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta used, ensuring it is cooked to your preference.
Is it possible to make a beef noodle skillet as a one-pot meal?
Yes, a beef noodle skillet can be made as a one-pot meal by browning the beef, adding the other ingredients like tomatoes, broth, and seasonings in the same skillet, and then cooking the noodles in the same pot until everything is well combined and the noodles are tender.
