Introduction
Remember those comforting, hearty bowls of chili mac? We’re bringing that classic back, but with a grown-up twist for your busy schedule. Forget multiple pots; this One-Pan Chili Mac is designed for the modern home cook craving satisfying, flavor-packed meals without the fuss. It’s a nostalgic journey in a single skillet, transforming simple ingredients into a rich, robust, and utterly delicious dish perfect for weeknight family dinner. Get ready for a meal both practical and deeply satisfying, proving incredible flavor doesn’t mean endless cleanup.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to gather for this delightful one-pan wonder:
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 pound lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10)
* 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons chili powder
* 1 teaspoon ground cumin
* 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
* 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)
* 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
* 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
* 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
* 4 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
* 2 cups water
* 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
* 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
* Optional garnishes: sour cream, chopped fresh cilantro, green onions
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s get cooking! This simple process ensures maximum flavor with minimal effort.
1. Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add ground beef, breaking it apart, until fully browned. Drain excess grease.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Add diced onion to skillet, cook until softened (5-7 minutes). Stir in minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne (if using). Cook another minute, stirring, until fragrant, blooming the spices.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: Pour in undrained diced tomatoes, rinsed kidney beans, and tomato sauce. Stir, scraping up browned bits from the bottom – flavor gold!
4. Add Liquids and Macaroni: Add beef broth and water, stirring well. Bring to a gentle boil. Stir in uncooked elbow macaroni. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer 15-20 minutes, or until macaroni is al dente and most liquid absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Finish with Cheese: Remove from heat. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve: Ladle generous portions and garnish with favorite toppings like sour cream, fresh cilantro, or green onions. Enjoy your comforting, homemade One-Pan Chili Mac!
Expert Tips
Elevate your Chili Mac with these insights. For deeper flavor, use quality, low-sodium beef broth; it makes a difference. Don’t rush browning meat or sautéing aromatics; these foundational steps build layers of taste. If sauce is too thick before pasta cooks, add a splash more broth or water, a quarter cup at a time. If too thin, simmer uncovered a few extra minutes. Always taste and adjust seasonings before serving; a final pinch of salt or pepper brings flavors into harmony.
Variations
This One-Pan Chili Mac is wonderfully versatile! For a lighter take, swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. Vegetarians can replace meat with black beans, lentils, or plant-based crumbles for hearty texture. Amp up the heat with diced jalapeño or hot sauce. Experiment with cheeses: a blend of Monterey Jack and Colby, or smoked gouda, adds intrigue. Stir in frozen corn or diced bell peppers during the last 5-10 minutes for added color and vegetables.
Conclusion
There you have it: a truly satisfying, convenient One-Pan Chili Mac that delivers big on flavor without demanding your entire evening. This recipe proves home-cooked comfort doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s a testament to simple ingredients creating something special, a meal that will gather loved ones around the table. Next time you’re craving classic chili mac warmth, remember this foolproof, one-pan method. It’s more than just dinner; it’s a moment of delicious, effortless joy. Happy cooking!
