One Skillet Chili Mac

This One Skillet Chili Mac is the ultimate comfort dinner; rich, hearty and packed with bold, smoky flavor.

Think seasoned ground beef, tender pasta and a tomato-based chili sauce all coming together in one pan, finished with melty cheese for that perfect cozy bite.

It's filling, family-friendly and made for those nights when you need something satisfying without the mess. For other one pan recipes, try this Greek Sheet Pan Chicken, my Sheet Pan Maple Salmon and my Skillet Tilapia with Tomatoes.

Ingredients

Ground beef: Adds richness and protein; use lean beef to avoid excess grease.
Chili seasoning: Brings bold, smoky flavor; store-bought works perfectly for ease.
Diced tomatoes: Add acidity and depth while forming the base of the sauce.
Kidney beans: Provide fiber and texture, making the dish more filling.
Elbow pasta: Classic for chili mac; it holds the sauce beautifully.
Monterey Jack cheese: Melts smoothly for a creamy, cheesy finish.

See recipe card for quantities.

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add the garlic and chopped onion, cooking for about 3 minutes until fragrant and softened.

ground beef and onions and garlic in skillet

Step 2: Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.

all ingredients in skillet for chili mac

Step 3: Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, chili seasoning, beef broth, and uncooked pasta. Mix well to combine, then reduce the heat to medium.

Step 4: Cover and let simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened. Turn off the heat and stir in half of the shredded cheese. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top, cover, and let it sit for a few minutes until melted.

Substitutions

Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Use black beans or pinto beans instead of kidney beans.
Replace Monterey Jack with cheddar or a Mexican-style cheese blend.

Variations

Spicy chili mac: Add chili flakes, jalapeños or hot sauce for heat.
Veggie boost: Stir in corn, bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.
Extra cheesy: Mix in cream cheese or add more shredded cheese on top for a richer finish.

Equipment

A large, deep skillet is key for this recipe since everything cooks in one pan. You'll also need a cutting board and knife for prep, plus a spatula or meat chopper to break up the beef as it cooks.

Measuring cups and spoons help keep everything balanced and consistent.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.

This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months, though the pasta may soften slightly when reheated.

Top tip

Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the skillet and to ensure even cooking.

FAQ

Can I cook the pasta seperately?

Yes, but cooking it in the skillet allows it to absorb all the flavor from the sauce, making the dish more cohesive.

Pairing

These are my favorite dishes to serve with one skillet chili mac:

Salads