Description
Chili Mac is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the best of creamy macaroni and cheese with zesty chili, creating a delightful meal perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or game day gatherings. With its rich blend of flavors from savory beef, vibrant spices, and gooey cheese, this delicious one-pot wonder is sure to become a family favorite. The easy preparation and versatility make it suitable for any occasion, whether served on its own or as a side dish. Enjoy this satisfying comfort food that warms you from the inside out!
Ingredients
- 1 lbs. ground beef (80% lean)
- 1 small onion (diced)
- ½ cup bell pepper (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (diced)
- 1.25 oz. packet chili seasoning mix
- 8 oz. tomato sauce
- 14.5 oz. can diced tomatoes (undrained)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 2 cups macaroni (uncooked)
- 1½ cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 15 oz. can kidney beans, drained
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon each: salt/pepper
- ½ teaspoon hot sauce
- Fresh Parsley
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked; drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in chili seasoning mix, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with juice, chicken broth, and kidney beans; let simmer for about 15 minutes.
- In another pot, bring salted water to boil; cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente; drain well.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter; whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually add heavy cream and milk while stirring until thickened.
- Combine cooked macaroni into the chili mixture along with cheese sauce; stir until well combined and heated through.
- Serve warm garnished with fresh parsley.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: One-pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (300g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg