Chili Elbows
A hearty, flavorful chili macaroni dish blending ground beef, chili powder, and creamy soup, perfect for a comforting family meal with a touch of spice and richness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown onion and ground beef in margarine.
- Add salt, chili powder, catsup, cream of chicken soup, and water.
- Cook slowly for 20 to 30 minutes until the desired thickness.
- Meanwhile, cook elbow macaroni according to package directions.
- Place cooked macaroni on a platter or individual plates.
- Top with the chili mixture and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the chili mixture. If you don't have cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom or a homemade white sauce can work as a substitute. Experimenting with different types of ground meat, such as turkey or chicken, can also yield delicious results. Serve with a sprinkle of cheese for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Chili elbows are a hearty dish that pairs well with a side of cornbread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. For an extra touch, top with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream. This dish also complements a refreshing Pasta Salad Trivoli, making for a well-rounded dinner that appeals to the whole family.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the chili elbows in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will keep for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to maintain moisture and heat in a saucepan over low heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid reheating multiple times to preserve quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Elbows contains roughly 507 calories, with 22g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (44% of the Daily Value), iron (30% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe by replacing the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor, and ensure the cream of chicken soup is replaced with a vegetarian alternative or a homemade cream sauce.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of chili powder or incorporate additional spices like cayenne pepper or diced green chilies. You can also serve the chili elbows with hot sauce on the side, allowing each person to customize their heat level.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chili mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the chili and cook the macaroni fresh to maintain its texture. This makes for a quick and easy dinner on busy nights.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).