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 tried making this when we were craving something filling but easy to pull together on a busy weeknight. The kids loved that it tasted like cheesy chili mac with a fun burger twist.
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.
- Season:
- Add the chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Combine and simmer:
- Pour in the 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 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 skillet dinner became a regular request on chilly evenings. Everyone enjoys gathering around the table and savoring the cheeseburger flavor with gooey cheese in every bite.
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). Check all ingredient labels for gluten and other allergens before serving.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 580 calories, 25 g total fat, 53 g carbohydrates, 35 g protein
Save to Pinterest This skillet recipe is sure to please all ages and makes cleanup quick. Just add a salad and dinner is complete!
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a lighter alternative, offering a similar texture and absorbing the spices nicely.
- → How spicy is this dish?
The spice level is moderate, balanced by the cheese and tomato base. For more heat, add cayenne pepper or jalapeño during cooking.
- → Can I prepare this in advance?
It can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed.
- → What kind of cheese is recommended?
Sharp cheddar cheese melts well and adds a rich, creamy layer on top, complementing the savory ingredients.
- → Is this dish suitable for a freezer meal?
Yes, portion and freeze after cooking. Thaw overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving for convenience.