Save to Pinterest This BBQ Rib Macaroni Skillet is a hearty and comforting dinner, featuring tender shredded BBQ pork ribs, creamy macaroni, and tangy barbecue sauce all baked together in one dish for unbeatable flavor.
I first made this skillet after a backyard barbecue, using leftover ribs and turning them into something special that my family instantly loved.
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)
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 cup (115 g)
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: 1/2 cup (60 g)
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Salt: 1/4 tsp
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): 2 tbsp
- Sliced green onions (optional):
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 rib meat & seasoning:
- 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 & cheese:
- Fold in the cooked macaroni and half the cheddar cheese until evenly combined.
- Top with cheese:
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and all the mozzarella on top.
- Bake:
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Rest & garnish:
- Let rest 5 minutes. Garnish with parsley and green onions before serving.
Save to Pinterest My family loves gathering around the table for this meal, especially when we use leftover ribs from a weekend cookout.
Serving Ideas
Pair this skillet with a crisp green salad or tangy coleslaw for a complete dinner everyone will enjoy.
Allergen Information
This dish contains dairy and gluten. Barbecue sauce ingredients may include soy, wheat, or mustard so always double-check your labels.
Nutrition
Each serving provides about 640 calories, 25 g fat, 70 g carbohydrates, and 34 g protein.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy this BBQ Rib Macaroni Skillet straight from the oven for the very best flavor and creaminess. It will quickly become a family favorite!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute the pork ribs with another meat?
Yes, rotisserie chicken or shredded jackfruit can be used as alternatives to pork ribs, adjusting cooking times as needed.
- → How should I cook the macaroni for this dish?
Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside before mixing.
- → What cheeses are best for topping the skillet?
A combination of shredded cheddar and mozzarella provides a creamy, melty topping with great flavor and texture.
- → Can I make this dish spicier?
Adding a dash of hot sauce or chipotle powder during preparation will introduce a spicy kick without overpowering the dish.
- → Is this meal suitable for vegetarians?
This dish contains pork ribs but can be adapted with plant-based proteins like jackfruit for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- → What equipment do I need to prepare this skillet?
A large oven-safe skillet, saucepan, cutting board, chef’s knife, grater, and measuring tools are required for preparation.