Budget Camping Meals: Easy Recipes for Outdoor Adventures

This Chili Mac features hearty pasta combined with ground beef and zesty spices, all cooked in one pot for a comforting meal.

Prep time 10 minutes  |  Cook time 25 minutes  |  Total 35 minutes  |  Serves 4

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef (or turkey)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15-ounce) can chili beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any pasta)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add 1 pound ground beef and cook until browned, about 7 minutes.
3. Stir in 1 small diced onion and 2 cloves minced garlic; sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add 1 (15-ounce) can chili beans, 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices), and 2 cups low-sodium beef broth. Stir well.
5. Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, and 1 teaspoon paprika. Mix until combined.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then add 2 cups elbow macaroni.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.
8. Once done, remove from heat and stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Recipe Notes

This Chili Mac can be stored in an airtight container in the cooler for about 3 days after cooking. You can also make it ahead of time and reheat it easily over the camp stove. If you’re vegetarian, replace the beef with canned lentils or an additional can of beans to achieve a similar texture.

Nutrition (per serving) Calories 520  |  Protein 34g  |  Carbs 18g  |  Fat 32g  |  Fiber 3g  |  Sodium 890mg

Nutrition is an estimate based on the ingredients above.