Dive into the comforting flavors of this Easy Skillet Cheese Topped Chili Macaroni, a one-pan masterpiece perfect for busy weeknights. Combining the hearty goodness of ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and bold spices like chili powder and smoked paprika, this dish delivers a rich, chili-inspired base. Canned beans, juicy tomatoes, and tomato sauce add texture and depth, while melted cheddar cheese creates a creamy, irresistible topping. With just 10 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cooking, this quick and flavorful recipe is ready in no time. Garnish with fresh green onions for a pop of color, and serve this satisfying skillet meal straight to your table for a crowd-pleasing dinner thatβs sure to become a family favorite. Keywords: chili macaroni recipe, easy skillet dinner, cheese topped pasta, one-pot meals, weeknight comfort food.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat.
Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
Stir in the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, and smoked paprika, stirring to coat the beef mixture evenly with the spices.
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir to combine.
Add the uncooked elbow macaroni and beans into the skillet. Stir well, ensuring the macaroni is evenly immersed in the liquid.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the skillet. Cover and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese has melted.
Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Calories |
3522 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 178.1 g | 228% | |
| Saturated Fat | 84.7 g | 424% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.4 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 543 mg | 181% | |
| Sodium | 6693 mg | 291% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 293.2 g | 107% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 45.1 g | 161% | |
| Total Sugars | 30.2 g | ||
| Protein | 201.2 g | 402% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 2047 mg | 157% | |
| Iron | 23.0 mg | 128% | |
| Potassium | 3966 mg | 84% | |
*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.