Save 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 remember the first time I made this skillet for my family: everybody went back for seconds and it quickly became a weeknight favorite. It brings together cheeseburger nostalgia and cozy chili mac comfort in every bite.
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 to 5 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté veggies:
- Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until softened.
- Meld tomato flavor:
- Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard. Mix well to coat the meat and vegetables.
- Season:
- Add the chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Add base ingredients:
- 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 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Melt cheese:
- Remove the lid, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover and let sit for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cheese has melted.
- Serve:
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or sliced green onions if desired.
Save Sharing a bubbling skillet around the table makes for such a cozy family dinner. It's always a hit on chilly evenings and a tradition when we want something hearty fast.
Required Tools
Large deep skillet with lid, cutting board and knife, wooden spoon or spatula, measuring cups and spoons.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat, milk, and soy. May also contain gluten depending on pasta and Worcestershire sauce. Verify all ingredient labels if you have dietary concerns.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: calories 580, total fat 25 g, carbohydrates 53 g, protein 35 g.
Save This skillet is ready in one pan and is sure to satisfy every appetite. Serve hot and enjoy every bite with your favorite toppings.
Common Questions
- → Can ground turkey be used instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for a lighter option and yields a similar texture when cooked in the skillet.
- → How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a quarter teaspoon of cayenne pepper or include a diced jalapeño when sautéing the vegetables for extra heat.
- → What type of cheese works best as a topping?
Shredded cheddar cheese melts well and adds a rich, creamy layer on top after cooking.
- → Is it necessary to drain the kidney beans before cooking?
Yes, draining and rinsing kidney beans helps reduce excess sodium and improves the overall texture of the dish.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
This meal can be prepared in advance and reheated gently on the stove or in the oven, preserving its flavors and creamy texture.
- → What sides pair well with this skillet meal?
Serving with a crisp side salad or garlic bread complements the rich, hearty skillet flavors nicely.