Description
Silly Chili Macaroni is a cozy, family-friendly one-pot meal combining tender elbow macaroni, hearty ground beef, flavorful chili spices, tomatoes, and beans, all crowned with melted cheddar cheese. This quick and filling dish is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner that satisfies both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dry and Canned Goods
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
Spices
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Dairy and Garnish
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the beef: Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, stirring occasionally, until it is fully browned and no longer pink.
- Sauté onion and garlic: Add the diced onion to the pot and cook for 3–4 minutes until the onion softens. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, releasing its aroma.
- Add liquids and spices: Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Add the drained kidney beans along with chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together to combine.
- Incorporate macaroni and boil: Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni into the mixture. Increase the heat to bring it to a boil, ensuring the pasta begins cooking in the flavorful liquid.
- Simmer until tender: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and simmer for 10–12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, until the macaroni is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
- Melt in cheese: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and creamy, enriching the chili macaroni with cheesy goodness.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or sliced green onions over the top for a fresh finish. Serve the Chili Macaroni warm, ideal for a hearty meal.
Notes
- For extra heat, add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Substitute ground turkey for a leaner protein option.
- Add diced bell peppers or corn for additional veggies and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
