One-Pan Cheeseburger Chili Mac

The One-Pan Cheeseburger Chili Mac is a hearty, high-protein mash-up that brings together the best of two comfort food worlds. This American classic features lean ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich, creamy cheddar sauce, all prepared in a single pan for a simple 35-minute dinner that provides 35g of protein per serving.

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By cooking the pasta directly in the beef broth and tomato juices, the macaroni absorbs every bit of savory flavor. The addition of yellow mustard, ketchup, and smoked paprika creates a signature burger-sauce profile that pairs perfectly with the sharp cheddar cheese.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz (225 g) elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 2 cups (480 ml) low-sodium beef broth
• 1 (14.5 oz/410 g) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 tbsp tomato ketchup
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 1/2 cups (150 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup dill pickles, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh chives or green onions, sliced (optional)

Instructions

Step 1

Heat a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking up with a spatula, until mostly browned, about 4–5 minutes.

Step 2

Add diced onion and cook 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

Step 3

Stir in ketchup, mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the beef.

Step 4

Add uncooked macaroni, beef broth, and canned tomatoes (with juice). Stir to combine and bring to a boil.

Step 5

Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.

Step 6

Remove from heat. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.

Step 7

Top with chopped dill pickles and sliced chives or green onions, if using. Serve hot.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Using a large, deep skillet or a Dutch oven ensures you have enough room for the pasta to expand. Be sure to stir the mixture occasionally during the simmering process to prevent the macaroni from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a lighter alternative, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey. This recipe also works well with gluten-free pasta; just ensure you monitor the simmer time as gluten-free varieties may cook at different rates.

Serviervorschläge

Enhance the dish by topping it with extra shredded cheddar and a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick. For a full restaurant-style meal, serve this hearty pasta alongside a portion of crispy fries and plenty of chopped dill pickles.

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This One-Pan Cheeseburger Chili Mac is a reliable weeknight staple that delivers massive flavor with minimal effort. At 520 calories per serving, it’s a balanced and satisfying meal that the whole family will request again and again.

Cooking Q&A

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, this reheats beautifully. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Add a splash of beef broth when reheating to restore creaminess.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Elbow macaroni is traditional, but any short pasta like shells, penne, or rotini will work. Just adjust cooking time as needed based on pasta size.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

→ How can I make it spicier?

Add diced jalapeños with the onions, incorporate hot sauce into the seasoning mix, or use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for extra heat.

→ Is this suitable for meal prep?

Perfect for meal prep. The flavors actually develop and improve overnight. Portion into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.