Description

Craving a comforting, savory dish that’s packed with bold flavors and perfect for feeding a crowd? The Chili Beef Noodle Skillet, with 9 glowing reviews, is your answer! This one-pan wonder combines tender egg noodles, seasoned ground beef, and a zesty tomato-chili sauce, topped with melted cheddar cheese.

Ingredients

To make Chili Beef Noodle Skillet for 8 servings, you’ll need these key ingredients. Each one adds a layer of flavor or texture to this comforting dish:

Egg Noodles (8 oz package): Tender, hearty base for the dish.
Ground Beef (2 lbs): Savory, protein-rich foundation.
Onion (1 medium, chopped): Adds sweet, savory depth.
Celery (¼ cup, chopped): Brings subtle crunch and flavor.
Garlic Cloves (2, minced): Provides aromatic depth.
Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 28 oz, undrained): Creates a rich, tangy sauce.
Chili Powder (1 tbsp): Adds warm, spicy flavor.
Salt (¼ to ½ tsp): Enhances overall flavor, adjustable to taste.
Pepper (⅛ tsp): Offers a mild kick.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese (½ to 1 cup): Adds melty, cheesy richness.

Substitutions and Variations:

Ground Beef: Swap with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.
Egg Noodles: Replace with rotini, penne, or gluten-free pasta (adjust cooking time).
Diced Tomatoes: Use fire-roasted tomatoes or fresh diced tomatoes (about 3½ cups).
Cheddar Cheese: Substitute with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Vegetables: Add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for extra texture.
Add-Ons: Include a can of kidney beans, black beans, or jalapeños for a chili boost.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free noodles and ensure tomatoes are gluten-free (check labels).
Spicy Kick: Increase chili powder to 1½ tbsp or add red pepper flakes.

Why These Ingredients Matter: The beef and noodles provide protein and heartiness, while the tomatoes and chili powder create a bold, tangy sauce. The cheese adds a creamy, melty finish, making this a balanced, crowd-pleasing meal perfect for comfort food lovers.

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Cook 1 package (8 oz) egg noodles according to package directions (typically 6–8 minutes in boiling water).
Drain and set aside.

Tip: Cook noodles al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy when mixed with the beef.

Step 2: Cook the Beef and Vegetables

In a large skillet, cook 2 lbs ground beef, 1 medium chopped onion, ¼ cup chopped celery, and 2 minced garlic cloves over medium heat for 6–8 minutes, breaking up the beef into crumbles, until the beef is no longer pink (165°F internal temperature) and vegetables are tender.
Drain excess fat from the skillet.

Tip: Chop vegetables finely for even cooking, and break up beef thoroughly for a uniform texture.

Step 3: Make the Chili Sauce

Stir in 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes (undrained), 1 tbsp chili powder, ¼ to ½ tsp salt, and ⅛ tsp pepper.
Cook and stir for 2 minutes, until heated through.

Tip: Adjust salt to taste, starting with ¼ tsp, especially if using low-sodium tomatoes.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Add the drained noodles to the beef mixture and stir to combine.
Heat through for 1–2 minutes over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Remove from heat, sprinkle with ½ to 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, cover, and let stand for 5 minutes until the cheese is melted.

Tip: Stir gently to keep noodles intact, and use the higher amount of cheese for a richer dish.

Step 5: Serve

Spoon the chili beef noodle mixture into bowls or onto plates.
Serve hot.

Tip: Serve immediately to enjoy the melty cheese and warm, hearty flavors at their best.