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 when looking for something satisfying that could be whipped up quickly after work. The kids gobbled it up and even asked for seconds, which never happens with weeknight dinners here.
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
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 1/2 cups (170 g)
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 the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for 2, 3 minutes until softened.
- Add flavorings:
- Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard. Mix well to coat the meat and vegetables.
- Spice mixture:
- Add the chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Combine and cook:
- Pour in the canned tomatoes (with juices), kidney beans, uncooked macaroni, and beef broth. Stir well and bring to a boil.
- Simmer:
- Reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 12, 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Add cheese:
- Remove the lid, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover and let sit for 2, 3 minutes, or until the cheese has melted.
- Serve:
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or sliced green onions if desired.
Save to Pinterest This dish always brings us together at the table, everyone sharing stories over generous helpings. There's nothing like seeing wide smiles and hearing requests for extra cheese.
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 ingredient labels)
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 580, Total Fat 25 g, Carbohydrates 53 g, Protein 35 g
Save to Pinterest Enjoy your skillet hot and fresh, with extra cheese or your favorite toppings. This recipe will quickly become a weeknight favorite at your house.
Answers to Recipe Questions
- → Can I substitute the ground beef with another protein?
Yes, ground turkey or plant-based crumbles can be used for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly option while maintaining the dish's hearty texture.
- → How can I add extra spice to the dish?
Adding 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or incorporating a diced jalapeño during the sauté step will increase the heat level.
- → What type of cheese works best for melting on top?
Shredded cheddar cheese is ideal for melting smoothly and adding a rich, sharp flavor to the dish.
- → Is this dish suitable for a quick weeknight meal?
Absolutely. Prep takes about 10 minutes and cooking about 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- → Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, it can be made ahead and stored chilled. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore creaminess.