Hamburger Chili Macaroni
A hearty and flavorful comfort dish combining ground beef, pasta, and a savory tomato-based sauce, perfect for family dinners and satisfying a crowd.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onions in a skillet; drain off excess fat.
- Add tomato paste, hot water, chili powder, salt, and garlic salt to the beef mixture.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the boiling mixture.
- Cover the skillet and simmer for 15 minutes, until macaroni is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a blend of ground beef and turkey or substituting the elbow macaroni with whole grain pasta. If you prefer a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mixture. To save time, you can use pre-cooked ground beef or leftover meat from dishes like Meat Ball Stew And Dumplings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Hamburger Chili Macaroni with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. It's perfect for game day gatherings and pairs beautifully with Super Bowl 3 Bean Hot Dish. Top each serving with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave it in a covered bowl, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture. This chili mac also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hamburger Chili Macaroni contains roughly 241 calories, with 8g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), iron (30% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1971mg per serving (86% 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 recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and sauce mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. Just cook the macaroni right before serving to ensure it remains tender. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or meal prep!
What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, try using lentils or a meat substitute like crumbled tempeh or plant-based ground meat, adjusting the seasonings to enhance the flavors.
How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Incorporate diced bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for added nutrition and flavor. You can sauté them with the onions and beef at the beginning or stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking for a vibrant and healthy twist.
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).