Chili Mac (Beef & Macaroni)

Don't get me wrong, I can appreciate a fancy gourmet meal as much as the next Hungry Texan but there is always something to be said for simplicity. Chili mac, a favorite from my childhood, takes basic ingredients and combines them in a one pot meal thats sure to please. I crave this stuff regularly and it never disappoints.
Lets dive right in shall we?


Here's what you'll need: 1 1/2 lbs. lean ground beef, 6 cups cooked macaroni, 2 (15 oz) cans stewed tomatoes, 3 celery stalks, 1/2 white onion, salt & pepper. I know we forgot a few things in the photo - use your imagination!
I made this over at my folks'. Nothing like dirty-ing up someone else's kitchen...

Start by cooking the ground beef until its about 2/3rds done. Season with a bit of salt & pepper.

Meanwhile leave it to Dad to show you a nifty trick to chop those tomatoes. Maybe not the most sanitary, but it definitely works like a charm.


Add thinly sliced onion and tomatoes, allow them a few minutes to cook down a bit. Then add celery, you want the celery to retain a little crunch so it should cook for just a few minutes.

Finally, add macaroni and stir well to combine. Add salt & pepper to taste.

Chili Mac makes fantastic leftovers. Oh and here's the handy printable recipe.