One-Pan Chili Mac and Cheese Dogs

Who says comfort food has to be complicated? This One-Pan Chili Mac and Cheese Dogs recipe is the perfect mix of easy prep and delicious flavor. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just craving a savory meal, this dish is sure to satisfy.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 package hot dogs
• Salt, pepper, chili powder, and cumin to taste

Instructions:

• In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
• Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, beef broth, and seasonings. Bring to a simmer.
• Add the macaroni to the skillet, stirring well to combine. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• While the macaroni cooks, slice the hot dogs into bite-sized pieces. Add them to the skillet, stirring to mix.
• Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender and the hot dogs are heated through.
• Remove from heat and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese before serving.

Nutrition Information:

Per serving: Calories 450, Total Fat 20g, Saturated Fat 8g, Cholesterol 60mg, Sodium 800mg, Total Carbohydrate 40g, Dietary Fiber 6g, Sugars 7g, Protein 25g

Popular Questions:

• Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

A: Yes, ground turkey can be a leaner alternative to ground beef in this recipe. Just adjust the seasonings to taste.

• Q: Can I use different types of beans?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to use black beans, pinto beans, or even a mix of different beans for variety.

• Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

A: Yes, simply omit the ground beef and hot dogs, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian version.

• Q: Can I freeze leftovers?

A: Yes, this dish freezes well. Just store in an airtight container and reheat when ready to enjoy.

• Q: Is this recipe kid-friendly?

A: Absolutely, kids love the combination of mac and cheese with hot dogs, and the chili adds a flavorful twist.

• Q: Can I make this on the stove or in a slow cooker?

A: Yes, you can adapt this recipe to cook on the stove or in a slow cooker with minor adjustments to cooking times.

Helpful Tips:

• For an extra kick of heat, add some diced jalapenos or a splash of hot sauce.
• Top with crushed tortilla chips or sliced green onions for added texture and flavor.
• Try using different types of cheese like pepper jack or mozzarella for a unique twist.
• Serve with a side of cornbread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
• Adjust the seasonings to your taste preferences, adding more chili powder for spice or extra cumin for depth of flavor.

Expert Secrets:

• Cook the macaroni just until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during the final cooking stage.
• Let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld together for a more cohesive taste.
• Feel free to add additional vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Grate fresh cheese instead of using pre-shredded for a creamier texture and better flavor.
• Experiment with different types of hot dogs like turkey, chicken, or veggie dogs for variety.