Go Back
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the warm, inviting embrace of a well-prepared pasta meal. Pasta has a unique ability to bring people together around the table, offering a satisfying and hearty solution for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings. Among the myriad of pasta recipes out there, the Cheesy Chili Pasta Skillet stands out as a delightful fusion of flavors that tantalizes the taste buds while delivering unmatched convenience.

Cheesy Chili Pasta Skillet

Experience the ultimate comfort with this Cheesy Chili Pasta Skillet recipe! This one-pan meal combines tender elbow macaroni, rich-ground meat, hearty beans, and a blend of spices, all topped with gooey melted cheese. It's not just delicious; it's incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With a flavorful fusion of chili and creamy goodness, this dish will quickly become a favorite at your dinner table. Embrace warmth and satisfaction with every bite!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

8 oz (about 2 cups) elbow macaroni or pasta of your choice

1 lb ground beef or turkey

1 (15 oz) can of kidney beans, rinsed and drained

1 (15 oz) can of black beans, rinsed and drained

1 (15 oz) can of diced tomatoes with green chilies

1 (15 oz) can of chili beans in sauce

1 cup beef or vegetable broth

1 tablespoon chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of your favorite cheeses)

Fresh cilantro or chopped green onions for garnishing (optional)

1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta:

    - In a large pot, bring a generous amount of salted water to a rolling boil.

      - Add the elbow macaroni or your selected pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.

        - Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

          Brown the Meat:

            - In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

              - Once heated, add the ground beef or turkey.

                - Use a spoon to break the meat into smaller pieces, cooking it until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

                  - If necessary, drain any excess fat from the skillet.

                    Combine Ingredients:

                      - Stir in the rinsed kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chili beans, and your choice of beef or vegetable broth into the skillet with the cooked meat.

                        - Add the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper.

                          - Mix well and bring the combination to a gentle simmer.

                            Add the Pasta:

                              - Once the mixture is simmering, gently fold in the cooked pasta.

                                - Stir until all ingredients are well combined, allowing them to simmer together for an additional 5 minutes to heat through and merge flavors beautifully.

                                  Cheesy Goodness:

                                    - Generously sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the pasta mixture.

                                      - Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese melts into gooey perfection.

                                        Serve:

                                          - After the cheese has melted, remove the skillet from heat.

                                            - Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions if desired.

                                              - Dish out generous portions and savor the warmth and comfort of your cheesy chili pasta skillet!

                                                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | Serves 4-6