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Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe

Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe


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4.5 from 7 reviews

  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Description

This Chili Mac and Cheese recipe combines the comforting flavors of chili with the creamy goodness of mac and cheese for a hearty and satisfying meal. It’s a Tex-Mex inspired dish that is perfect for a cozy dinner with a touch of spice.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Chili:

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 medium onion (chopped)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 red bell pepper (chopped)
  • 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces)
  • 1 can tomato sauce (15 ounces)
  • 1 can kidney beans (15 ounces, drained and rinsed)
  • 1 can black beans (15 ounces, drained and rinsed)
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Cheese Sauce:

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • ½ cup milk

For Garnish:

  • Chopped green onions or fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Macaroni: Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Chili: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and cook ground beef until browned. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beans, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
  3. Combine Everything: Reduce heat, stir in cooked macaroni, milk, 1½ cups cheddar cheese, and ½ cup Monterey Jack cheese. Mix until cheese melts. Transfer to a serving dish, sprinkle with remaining cheeses, and garnish with green onions or cilantro.
  4. Serve: Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

  • For a spicier version, add 1 minced jalapeño or extra chili powder.
  • You can cook the pasta directly in the chili mixture for a one-pot meal.
  • Leftovers can be frozen for up to 2 months.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American (Tex-Mex inspired)

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: about 1½ cups
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 880 mg
  • Fat: 21 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 56 g
  • Fiber: 10 g
  • Protein: 29 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg