This is a fun, family-friendly one-pan meal that combines meat, pasta and vegetables. Some people call similar recipes “Garbage Can Dinner,” but I prefer the name Shipwreck — it sounds more appetizing.
Shipwreck dinner is easy to prepare and ideal for using up odds and ends from the fridge, though you don’t have to rely on leftovers. Most of the work is browning the meat and combining the ingredients in a single skillet, so cleanup is minimal.
The total hands-on time is short — mainly opening cans and cooking the ground beef — and the result is a hearty, comforting meal the whole family will enjoy.
Why is it called Shipwreck Dinner?
The name is playful: it suggests tossing together whatever is on hand, like the remnants of a shipwreck. That said, this recipe works perfectly with fresh ingredients purchased specifically for it, not just leftovers.
The recipe lists frozen vegetables — can I use canned?
Yes, canned vegetables can be used, but frozen vegetables tend to taste fresher and hold up better in this dish. Fresh vegetables are also a great option if you have them.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely. Add-ins like broccoli, cauliflower or green beans work well and add another layer of flavor and texture.
Can I substitute Italian sausage for ground beef?
Yes — Italian sausage is a tasty alternative and will give the dish a bolder, slightly spicier flavor.
What can I serve with Shipwreck dinner?
This one-pan meal already includes protein, starch and vegetables, so it’s a complete dinner. If you’d like a side, consider a fresh salad, extra roasted or steamed vegetables, or a mixed fruit salad to lighten the plate.
Ingredients:
1 box macaroni and cheese mix
1 pound ground beef
1 can diced tomatoes (undrained)
1 cup frozen peas
1 cup frozen corn
1 cup milk (2% or whole)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
HOW TO MAKE SHIPWRECK DINNER :
Step 1. In a skillet over medium-high heat, crumble and brown the ground beef until fully cooked.
Step 2. Drain excess fat from the skillet.
Step 3. Sprinkle in the cheese powder from the macaroni and cheese mix.
Step 4. Add the macaroni from the box to the skillet.
Step 5. Stir to combine the pasta, cheese powder and meat.
Step 6. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, add the milk, frozen peas and frozen corn, and stir to mix everything evenly.
Step 7. Cover the skillet and bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 8. As soon as it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.
Step 9. Simmer for 12–15 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 10. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar on top, cover, and let simmer a few more minutes until the cheese melts.
Step 11. Serve hot and enjoy!
Shipwrecked Dinner
Ingredients
- 1 box Macaroni and Cheese mix
- 1 pound Ground beef
- 1 can Tomatoes diced and undrained
- 1 cup Peas frozen
- 1 cup Corn frozen
- 1 cup Milk 2% or whole
- 1 cup Cheese Cheddar, shredded
Method
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1. In a skillet over medium-high heat, crumble and brown the ground beef until it is thoroughly cooked.
2. Drain the fat from the skillet.
3. Sprinkle in the cheese powder from the macaroni and cheese box.
4. Add the macaroni from the box.
5. Stir to combine.
6. Add the diced tomatoes and their juice, the milk, and the frozen peas and corn.
7. Cover the skillet and bring to a boil.
8. Reduce heat once boiling.
9. Simmer for 12–15 minutes, until the noodles are tender and the liquid is absorbed.
10. Top with shredded cheddar, cover, and heat a few minutes longer until the cheese melts.
11. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
The name reflects the idea of using what’s available. It’s a flexible, one-pan meal that works with both leftovers and fresh ingredients.
THANKS FOR PINING!
