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.
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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
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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.
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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.
