Looking for a family meal that packs flavor and comfort? Let me introduce you to Skillet Chili Mac! This one-pan dish is easy to make and loaded with tasty ingredients that your loved ones will devour. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe fits the bill. Join me as I share step-by-step tips and tricks to create this delicious dish everyone will enjoy!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound ground beef or turkey
– 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups elbow macaroni
– 3 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for topping)
– Chopped green onions (for garnish)
When cooking Skillet Chili Mac, you want to gather the right ingredients. Fresh and quality items make a big difference. A good base starts with olive oil and onions. The oil helps cook the onions and adds flavor. Garlic brings a nice aroma when added next.
For protein, I often choose ground beef or turkey. Both work well. Beans add texture and fiber, so I use kidney and black beans. Diced tomatoes add moisture and taste. The spices—chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika—create that rich chili flavor.
Don’t forget the elbow macaroni! It absorbs the broth and blends with other flavors. The vegetable broth keeps everything moist. Lastly, cheese adds creaminess, and sour cream on top makes it even better. Chopped green onions finish the dish with a fresh touch.
You can find the full recipe in the other sections. This dish is simple and fun to make. It’s perfect for family meals!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
– Sauté 1 medium diced onion until it turns soft and clear, about 5 minutes.
– Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for another minute until you smell the garlic.
Cooking Process
– Add 1 pound of ground beef or turkey to the skillet.
– Cook until the meat is brown and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes.
– Stir in 1 can of kidney beans, 1 can of black beans, and 1 can of diced tomatoes, undrained.
– Mix in 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, plus salt and pepper to taste.
Final Cooking Steps
– Pour in 2 cups of elbow macaroni and 3 cups of vegetable broth.
– Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
– Cover and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring often, until the macaroni is tender.
– Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until it melts nicely.
This dish is perfect for family dinners and offers warmth and flavor in every bite. For more details, check the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your Skillet Chili Mac
To make a great Skillet Chili Mac, start with quality ground meat. Beef or turkey adds rich flavor. You can also mix meats for a fun twist. Adjust spices to fit your heat level. If you like it spicy, add more chili powder or even jalapeños. Experiment with flavors until it’s just right for you.
Cooking Tips
Stir the dish occasionally while it cooks. This keeps it from sticking to the skillet. If your chili mac turns out too thick, just add more broth. This will make it creamy and delicious. You want a nice balance of pasta and sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Skillet Chili Mac right away for the best texture. It tastes best hot and fresh. A side salad or cornbread pairs well with the dish. These sides add crunch and contrast to the creamy mac. Enjoy your meal with family and friends! For the full recipe, check the recipe section above.
Variations
Meat Alternatives
You can switch up the meat in your Skillet Chili Mac. Ground turkey or chicken works just as well. They offer a lighter taste while still giving you protein. If you want a vegetarian option, try adding more beans. You can use black beans and kidney beans together. Skip the meat entirely and still enjoy a hearty meal.
Spice Level Adjustments
If you like heat, add some chopped jalapeños. They give a nice kick to the dish. You can also use a spicy chili powder blend. This will elevate the flavor and make it more exciting. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
Pasta Variations
Not a fan of elbow macaroni? You can swap it for gluten-free pasta. This makes the dish friendly for gluten-free diets. You can also use different pasta shapes. Try penne, shells, or fusilli for fun textures. Each type brings a new twist to the dish.
For the full recipe, check out the Cheesy Skillet Chili Mac details.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Tips
After enjoying your Skillet Chili Mac, store leftovers in an airtight container. This will keep your meal fresh. It can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge. Be sure to let it cool down before sealing the container.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save some for later, freeze it in meal-sized portions. Use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Reheating Guidelines
Reheat your Skillet Chili Mac on the stovetop or in the microwave. If it looks too dry, add a splash of broth when reheating. This keeps the dish moist and delicious. Enjoy your easy and tasty meal!
FAQs
Can I make Skillet Chili Mac ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats well for easy meal prep. You can make this dish a day or two in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Adding a little broth helps keep it moist.
What can I substitute for elbow macaroni?
Any small pasta like shells or penne works great. If you want a fun shape, feel free to use rotini or farfalle. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose.
Is this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and check all canned goods for gluten content. Many canned beans and tomatoes are gluten-free, but it’s good to double-check. This way, everyone can enjoy this comforting meal!
This blog post covered all you need to know about making Skillet Chili Mac. We looked at the key ingredients, step-by-step cooking, and helpful tips to perfect the dish. You’re ready to create a tasty meal that your family will love. Don’t forget to explore variations and serving suggestions for added fun. With this guide, you can enjoy a hearty meal today or prep some for later. Dive in and make your next dinner special!
