Save to Pinterest A comforting one-pan meal combining the flavors of a cheeseburger and classic chili mac, all topped with melted cheese. Budget-friendly, hearty, and perfect for busy weeknights.
I first made this skillet on a rainy Tuesday when everyone wanted something cozy but quick. Each bite brought together everything we love about chili mac with the added cheesy comfort of a burger.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: 1 lb (450 g), 80/20 preferred
- Yellow onion: 1 small, diced
- Red bell pepper: 1, diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Elbow macaroni: 2 cups (200 g), uncooked
- Diced tomatoes: 1 (14.5 oz / 410 g) can, undrained
- Kidney beans: 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can, drained and rinsed
- Beef broth: 2 cups (475 ml)
- Tomato paste: 2 tbsp
- Worcestershire sauce: 1 tbsp
- Yellow mustard: 1 tbsp
- Chili powder: 1 tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp
- Ground cumin: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp, or to taste
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Cheddar cheese: 1 1/2 cups (170 g), shredded
Instructions
- Brown the beef:
- In a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon (about 4, 5 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté vegetables:
- Add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for 2, 3 minutes until softened.
- Add sauces:
- Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard. Mix well to coat the meat and vegetables.
- Spice it up:
- Add chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Combine pantry ingredients:
- Pour in canned tomatoes (with juices), kidney beans, uncooked macaroni, and beef broth. Stir well and bring to a boil.
- Cook pasta:
- Reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 12, 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid absorbed.
- Add cheese:
- Remove lid, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over top. Cover and let sit for 2, 3 minutes, or until cheese melted.
- Serve:
- Serve hot, garnish with parsley or sliced green onions if desired.
Save to Pinterest This recipe quickly became a family favorite after one bite, with everyone grabbing second helpings right out of the skillet at the dinner table.
Required Tools
Large deep skillet with lid, cutting board and knife, wooden spoon or spatula, measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains: Wheat (pasta), Milk (cheese), Soy (Worcestershire sauce may contain soy). May contain: Gluten (check pasta and Worcestershire sauce labels). Always verify ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 580. Total Fat: 25 g. Carbohydrates: 53 g. Protein: 35 g
Save to Pinterest This warm, cheesy skillet is perfect for when you need something fast and crowd-pleasing. Enjoy your dinner with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
Ask About This Recipe
- → Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?
Yes, ground turkey or plant-based crumbles work well as alternatives while maintaining the dish's texture and flavor.
- → How can I make this dish spicier?
Adding cayenne pepper or diced jalapeño during the sauté phase boosts the heat without overpowering the flavors.
- → What is the best way to ensure macaroni cooks evenly?
Simmer covered and stir occasionally to prevent sticking, cooking until pasta is tender and liquid mostly absorbed.
- → Can I prepare this in advance?
This can be made ahead and reheated gently; add extra cheese when warming to refresh the creamy texture.
- → What sides complement this skillet dish?
Green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables balance the hearty flavors nicely for a complete meal.