Bulking High Calorie Meal Prep
Bulking High Calorie Meal Prep!!! is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 510 calories per serving. Recipe by Lachlan Williams on YouTube.
Prep: 5 min | Cook: 25 min | Total: 40 min
Cost: $23.68 total, $5.92 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Beef (80% lean, fresh)
- 4 cups Water (for boiling pasta and meat)
- 8 oz Elbow Macaroni (or any short pasta, uncooked)
- 1 packet Chili Con Carne Seasoning Mix (approximately 55 g, store‑bought)
- 2 cups Frozen Mixed Greens (spinach, kale or blend, thawed)
- 1 tsp Salt (to season the pasta water)
Instructions
Boil Water
Fill the large pot with 4 cups of water, place a lid on, and bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: 100°C
Cook the Mince
Add the ground beef to the boiling water, breaking it up with a wooden spoon so it cooks evenly. Stir constantly until the meat is fully browned and no pink remains.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: 100°C
Add Pasta and Salt
Stir in the elbow macaroni and sprinkle 1 tsp of salt. Cook according to the package directions, usually 8–10 minutes, until al dente.
Time: PT8M
Temperature: 100°C
Season the Dish
Sprinkle the chili con carne seasoning mix over the pot and stir thoroughly so the flavor coats the meat and pasta.
Time: PT1M
Add Frozen Greens
Add the frozen mixed greens, stirring gently. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the greens are heated through and wilted.
Time: PT3M
Temperature: 100°C
Drain the Pasta
Place the strainer in the sink and carefully pour the contents of the pot through it to remove excess water. Return the drained mixture to the pot for a brief minute to let any remaining moisture evaporate.
Time: PT2M
Portion into Containers
Divide the chili con carne pasta evenly among the parchment‑lined meal prep containers. Allow to cool slightly before sealing.
Time: PT5M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 510
- Protein
- 31 g
- Carbohydrates
- 40 g
- Fat
- 18 g
- Fiber
- 1 g
Dietary info: Contains meat, Contains gluten, Dairy‑free, Nut‑free
Allergens: gluten
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Ground Beef: Ground turkey, Ground chicken
- Instead of Elbow Macaroni: Penne, Fusilli
- Instead of Chili Con Carne Seasoning Mix: Homemade chili powder blend, Taco seasoning
- Instead of Frozen Mixed Greens: Fresh baby spinach, Swiss chard
- Instead of Salt: Kosher salt, Sea salt
Equipment Needed
- Large Pot
- Wooden Spoon
- Strainer
- Meal Prep Containers
- Measuring Cups (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Cooking the ground beef until fully browned (no pink) to ensure safety.
- Draining the pasta properly to avoid soggy meal‑preps.
Chef Tips from the Video
- For extra depth, sauté the mince in a little olive oil before adding water.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the seasoning mix for a subtle smoky flavor.
- Use whole‑grain pasta for added fiber and a nuttier texture.
Troubleshooting
The pasta is mushy after draining.
Reduce the cooking time by 1–2 minutes and drain immediately; let the residual heat finish cooking.
The dish is too salty.
Add a splash of water or unsalted broth and stir; next time reduce the added salt.
The meat is still pink.
Continue cooking the mince, stirring frequently, until it turns fully brown and reaches 71°C.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store sealed containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Room temperature: Do not store at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Cool the cooked dish completely before sealing containers to prevent condensation.
- Reheat in the microwave for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of chili con carne in American cuisine?
Chili con carne originated in the American Southwest, especially Texas, where Mexican and Spanish influences merged with local beef ranching traditions. It became a staple of cowboy and frontier cooking, celebrated today at chili cook‑offs across the United States.
What are the traditional regional variations of chili con carne in Tex‑Mex cuisine?
In Texas, chili often omits beans and focuses on beef and chili peppers, while in other parts of the Southwest beans, tomatoes, and additional spices like cumin are common. Some regions add chocolate or coffee for depth, creating a richer flavor profile.
How is chili con carne traditionally served in Texas?
Traditionally, Texas chili is served hot in a bowl, topped with chopped onions, shredded cheese, and sometimes a side of cornbread or crackers. It is often enjoyed as a hearty main dish rather than a side.
What occasions or celebrations is chili con carne associated with in American culture?
Chili con carne is a popular dish for casual gatherings, sports events, and especially chili cook‑off competitions held throughout the year. It’s also a comfort food for cold winter evenings and a go‑to for quick weeknight meals.
What authentic traditional ingredients are used in classic chili con carne versus acceptable substitutes?
Authentic chili con carne uses quality beef, dried chili peppers or powder, cumin, and sometimes garlic and oregano. Substitutes can include ground turkey for a leaner version, or a store‑bought chili seasoning mix if you lack individual spices.
What other Tex‑Mex dishes pair well with this chili con carne pasta meal prep?
Serve alongside a simple avocado‑lime salad, corn tortillas, or a side of Mexican street corn (elote). A cool cucumber‑tomato salsa also balances the spiciness nicely.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making chili con carne pasta meal prep?
Common errors include undercooking the ground beef, overcooking the pasta so it becomes mushy, and not draining excess water, which can make the dish soggy. Stirring frequently and timing each component helps prevent these issues.
Why does this recipe add the chili seasoning mix after the pasta is cooked instead of earlier?
Adding the seasoning after the pasta ensures the spices coat the meat and pasta evenly without becoming bitter from prolonged boiling. It also preserves the bright, fresh flavor of the chili blend.
Can I make this chili con carne pasta ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, the dish is ideal for meal‑prepping. Cool it completely, then portion into airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly before eating.
What does the YouTube channel Lachlan Williams specialize in?
The YouTube channel Lachlan Williams focuses on simple, budget‑friendly home cooking tutorials, especially quick weeknight meals and meal‑prep ideas that require minimal equipment and time.
How does the YouTube channel Lachlan Williams' approach to American comfort food differ from other cooking channels?
Lachlan Williams emphasizes one‑pot, no‑fuss recipes that can be prepared in under 30 minutes, often using pantry staples and frozen ingredients, whereas many other channels may use more elaborate techniques or specialty ingredients.
Last updated: August 29, 2026
