Smoky BBQ Chili Mac Recipe (One-Pan)

why make this recipe

Smoky BBQ Chili Mac is a delightful and comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of chili and the smokiness of BBQ sauce. It’s perfect for anyone looking for an easy yet satisfying meal. This recipe is great for weeknight dinners, as it uses just one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, it brings together familiar ingredients that are often already in your pantry, making it budget-friendly.

how to make Smoky BBQ Chili Mac

Ingredients :

  • 500 g ground beef
  • 300 g macaroni
  • 200 ml BBQ sauce
  • 400 ml tomato sauce
  • 1 onion (100 g)
  • 200 g cheddar cheese

Directions :

  1. Brown the ground beef with the chopped onion in a large pan over medium heat.
  2. Once the beef is cooked, add the BBQ sauce and tomato sauce. Stir until well combined.
  3. Add the macaroni and enough water to cover the pasta. Bring it to a boil and cook until the pasta is tender.
  4. Mix all the ingredients together until they are well combined.
  5. Top the mixture with shredded cheddar cheese and cover the pan. Let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese melts.

how to serve Smoky BBQ Chili Mac

Serve Smoky BBQ Chili Mac hot from the pan. You can garnish it with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added flavor. It pairs well with a side salad or some crusty bread. This dish is hearty enough on its own, making it a filling meal.

how to store Smoky BBQ Chili Mac

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To freeze, place the cooled Chili Mac in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for about three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave.

tips to make Smoky BBQ Chili Mac

  • Cook the pasta according to the package instructions for the best texture.
  • Feel free to adjust the amount of BBQ sauce based on your taste preferences.
  • Add some chopped bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor and spice.
  • For a healthier version, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.

variation

You can swap out the ground beef for a plant-based alternative to make a vegetarian version of this dish. Additionally, you can use whole wheat macaroni for a healthier option. Try different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or mozzarella, for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can make it ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge or freeze it for later.

2. Can I use canned beans in this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding canned beans, such as black beans or kidney beans, can enhance the flavor and add extra protein.

3. How spicy is this dish?
The spice level depends on the BBQ sauce you use. You can choose a mild sauce for less heat or a spicy one for a kick.

Smoky BBQ Chili Mac served in a bowl, garnished with cheese and herbs.

Smoky BBQ Chili Mac

A delightful and comforting dish combining rich chili flavors with smoky BBQ sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 500 g ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or chicken for a healthier option
  • 300 g macaroni whole wheat macaroni can be used for a healthier alternative
  • 200 ml BBQ sauce adjust based on taste preferences
  • 400 ml tomato sauce
  • 1 piece onion (100 g) chopped
  • 200 g cheddar cheese can experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella

Method
 

Cooking
  1. Brown the ground beef with the chopped onion in a large pan over medium heat.
  2. Once the beef is cooked, add the BBQ sauce and tomato sauce. Stir until well combined.
  3. Add the macaroni and enough water to cover the pasta. Bring it to a boil and cook until the pasta is tender.
  4. Mix all the ingredients together until they are well combined.
  5. Top the mixture with shredded cheddar cheese and cover the pan. Let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese melts.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To freeze, place cooled Chili Mac in a freezer-safe container and keep for about three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

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