My dad invented this genius depression era style dinner when we barely had anything in the cupboards. With only 3 ingredients you get a sweet and tangy beefy masterpiece that kids absolutely devour.

This slow cooker 3-ingredient sloppy joe macaroni is the kind of humble, stretch-what-you’ve-got supper that kept a lot of Midwestern families going during lean years. My dad first threw it together on a weeknight when the cupboards were nearly bare—just a pound of ground beef, a can of sloppy joe sauce, and a box of elbow macaroni. Somehow those three simple things turned into a sweet, tangy, beefy skillet full of comfort that fed a whole table of hungry kids. It’s not fancy, but it’s hearty, thrifty, and exactly the kind of one-pot, stick-to-your-ribs meal that never goes out of style.

Serve this sloppy joe macaroni hot in deep bowls or on plain white plates so you can really see that rich, red sauce clinging to the curls of pasta. It’s perfect with simple sides like buttered peas, green beans, or a crisp iceberg salad with ranch. A slice of soft white bread or a warm dinner roll helps wipe up every bit of the tangy meat sauce. For a real old-fashioned supper, pour tall glasses of cold milk or sweet tea and finish with whatever dessert you have on hand—even just applesauce or canned fruit feels right at home next to this thrifty, comforting dish.

Servings: 6

1 pound ground beef

Lightly spray the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray or rub with a little oil to help keep the pasta from sticking.