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 first made this BBQ Rib Macaroni Skillet for a casual family dinner when I had leftover ribs from the weekend. The combination turned out so creamy and savory that everyone went back for seconds!
Ingredients
- Pork ribs: 1 lb (450 g) cooked, 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
- Parsley (optional): 2 tbsp chopped fresh
- Green onions: Sliced
Instructions
- Prep & Preheat:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook Pasta:
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Veggies:
- In a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat, sauté onion and bell pepper for 4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
- Add Rib Meat & Seasonings:
- Stir in shredded rib meat, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Warm through for 2 minutes.
- Add Sauce:
- Add barbecue sauce and chicken broth; mix well and simmer for 3 minutes.
- Combine:
- Fold in cooked macaroni and half of the cheddar cheese until evenly combined.
- Top & Bake:
- Sprinkle remaining cheddar and all the mozzarella on top. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
- Finish:
- Let rest 5 minutes. Garnish with parsley and green onions before serving.
Save My kids love helping sprinkle cheese over the top before baking and always argue who gets the cheesiest scoop.
Serving Suggestions
Serve BBQ Rib Macaroni Skillet with a green salad or creamy coleslaw to balance out the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or gently on the stove with a splash of broth.
Ingredient Swaps
Try swapping the pork ribs for rotisserie chicken, shredded beef, or plant-based jackfruit for a vegetarian twist.
Save This BBQ Rib Macaroni Skillet guarantees comfort and smiles at the dinner table every time you make it.
Kitchen Guide
- → What cut of meat works best for this dish?
Shredded pork ribs with tender meat work wonderfully, offering smoky richness that pairs well with the creamy pasta.
- → Can I substitute the elbow macaroni with other pasta?
Yes, small pasta shapes like penne or shells maintain texture and blend well with the sauce.
- → How do I achieve a bubbly, golden cheese topping?
Using a combination of shredded cheddar and mozzarella and baking the skillet uncovered allows the cheese to melt and brown nicely.
- → Is it possible to add a spicy element to this dish?
Absolutely, adding a dash of hot sauce or chipotle pepper enhances the smoky barbecue flavor with heat.
- → What garnishes complement the flavors here?
Fresh parsley and sliced green onions add a bright, fresh note that balances the rich, smoky components.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it in advance and bake just before serving for best texture and warmth.