Chili Mac is the ultimate comfort food, combining the bold flavors of chili with the satisfying goodness of macaroni and cheese. Imagine a dish that’s both hearty and filling, perfect for chilly nights or when you’re simply craving something warm and delicious. This recipe is a delightful twist on classic mac and cheese, and it’s sure to become a family favorite.
This hearty Chili Mac is packed with seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, and beans, all enveloped in creamy cheese. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, offering a perfect balance of flavors that will keep you coming back for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish has got you covered.
What I love about Chili Mac is its versatility. You can easily adjust the spices to suit your taste, and it’s a great way to sneak in some vegetables. Trust me, once you try this comforting dish, you’ll find it hard to resist.
Delicious and Satisfying Chili Mac
This Chili Mac recipe delivers a rich, savory experience with a delightful kick. It’s a one-pot wonder, filled with tender pasta, robust chili flavors, and creamy cheese, making it a filling and satisfying meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped green onions or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: In a large pot, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- Add the Chili Ingredients: Stir in the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the elbow macaroni to the pot. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.
- Add the Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve: Ladle the Chili Mac into bowls and top with chopped green onions or cilantro if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
