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.
When I first made this for my family, it became an instant favorite for weeknights. The blend of chili spices and cheesy macaroni always disappears fast at our table!
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 can (14.5 oz / 410 g), undrained
- Kidney beans: 1 can (15 oz / 425 g), 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 the vegetables:
- Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until softened.
- Add sauces and spices:
- Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard. Mix well to coat the meat and vegetables. Add the chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Add pasta and liquid:
- Pour in diced tomatoes (with juices), kidney beans, uncooked macaroni, and beef broth. Stir well and bring to a boil.
- Simmer:
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Add cheese:
- Remove the lid, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover and let sit for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese has melted.
- Serve:
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or sliced green onions if desired.
Save My kids always ask for seconds when I make this, and it makes for great leftovers the next day. It's a dish that brings everyone to the table with smiles!
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), and may contain gluten if ingredients are not verified.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 580, Total Fat 25 g, Carbohydrates 53 g, Protein 35 g
Save Serve your Cheeseburger Chili Mac hot from the skillet and enjoy a bowl of comfort any night of the week. This easy classic is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation!
Kitchen Guide
- → Can I substitute the ground beef with another protein?
Yes, ground turkey or plant-based crumbles can be used to create a lighter or vegetarian-friendly version without sacrificing flavor.
- → How can I make this dish spicier?
Adding 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or including a diced jalapeño with the vegetables will enhance the heat and depth of flavor.
- → What type of cheese works best for melting on top?
Shredded cheddar cheese melts perfectly, offering a rich and creamy topping, but feel free to try Monterey Jack or mozzarella for variations.
- → Is it necessary to drain the ground beef after cooking?
Draining excess fat helps reduce greasiness, but leaving some fat can add richness to the dish depending on preference.
- → Can this meal be cooked without a lid?
Using a lid allows the macaroni to cook evenly and absorb flavors fully; without it, cooking times may increase and texture might change.