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Kimchi Chili Mac


  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Low Lactose

Description

A bold and cozy fusion of spicy kimchi, rich chili, and creamy mac and cheese, all in one unforgettable skillet meal.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 cup chopped kimchi
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Set a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add oil, then sauté the diced onion and garlic until fragrant. Stir in the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as you go.
  3. Mix in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Stir in kimchi, diced tomatoes, beans, broth, and soy sauce.
  4. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the uncooked pasta directly into the pot and stir well.
  5. Simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the liquid has thickened (about 10–12 minutes).
  6. Stir in half of the shredded cheese. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and let it melt. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
  7. Spoon into bowls and top with sliced green onions.

Notes

  • Use well-fermented kimchi for deeper flavor.
  • Don’t overcook the pasta, as it will continue to soften in the chili.
  • Leftovers taste even better the next day.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Fusion

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 480
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 950mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: kimchi chili mac, fusion comfort food, kimchi pasta, spicy chili mac