Chili Mac Skillet

Satisfy your comfort food cravings with this irresistible Chili Mac Skillet—a one-pan wonder that combines the bold flavors of chili with the creamy, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese. Made with tender ground beef, aromatic garlic and onions, and a perfectly spiced blend of chili powder, cumin, and paprika, this hearty dish comes together in just 35 minutes. The magic happens as uncooked elbow macaroni simmers directly in a flavorful tomato and beef broth base, soaking up every delicious drop. Topped with melty cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of fresh scallions, this easy weeknight dinner is both kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing, offering big flavors with minimal cleanup. Perfect for busy nights, this satisfying skillet dish is destined to become a regular on your dinner table!

Nutriscore Rating: 68/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 15 ounces diced tomatoes with juice
• 8 ounces tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons scallions, sliced (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

In a large skillet or deep sauté pan, heat over medium-high heat and add the ground beef.

Step 2

Cook the beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.

Step 3

Drain any excess grease if needed, then add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant.

Step 4

Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together evenly.

Step 5

Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 6

Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni, ensuring it is submerged in the liquid.

Step 7

Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet with a lid, and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the macaroni is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 8

Turn off the heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.

Step 9

Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese on top, cover the skillet for 2-3 minutes, and allow the cheese to melt.

Step 10

Garnish with sliced scallions if desired and serve hot.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2182.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3041.6

Total Fat 162.4g	0%
Saturated Fat 81.9g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0g
Cholesterol 561.1mg	0%
Sodium 6499.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 231.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 23.6g	0%
Total Sugars 29.1g
Protein 177.1g	0%

Vitamin D 48.0IU	0%
Calcium 1862.6mg	0%
Iron 19.6mg	0%
Potassium 3016.9mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 47.2%

Protein: 22.9%

Carbs: 29.9%