Hearty Chili Mac Skillet
This Hearty Chili Mac Skillet is a comforting, one-pan meal with bold chili flavors and tender macaroni, perfect for easy weeknight dinners.
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- green onions for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
- Start by dicing the onion and mincing the garlic cloves. Rinse and drain the kidney beans thoroughly to remove excess sodium, then set them aside. Measure out your spices so everything is ready to go when you start cooking.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in your large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent and soft, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with your spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
Step 4: Add Spices and Tomatoes
- Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper over the beef mixture. Stir well to evenly coat the meat. Then, pour in the can of diced tomatoes along with their juices, stirring to combine.
Step 5: Add Pasta, Beans, and Broth
- Stir in the rinsed kidney beans and uncooked elbow macaroni. Pour in the beef broth, ensuring the pasta is submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the skillet. Simmer gently for about 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Step 6: Finish with Cheese and Garnish
- Once the pasta is cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and let the cheese melt for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving for a fresh, vibrant touch.
Equipment
- Large Skillet or Sauté Pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Colander
Notes
- Stir occasionally while the pasta cooks to prevent sticking to the skillet bottom.
- If the mixture thickens too much before pasta is done, add extra beef broth or water to loosen.
- For a smoky twist, substitute regular paprika with chipotle powder or smoked paprika.
