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Chili Mac

Chili Mac

Chili Mac is the ultimate comfort food that combines the bold flavors of hearty chili with creamy macaroni and cheese. This one-pot dish is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a fantastic option for family dinners, gatherings, or a cozy night in. Packed with protein from ground beef and kidney beans, and enriched with a rich cheese sauce, this dish promises to delight taste buds of all ages. Whether you’re serving it at a potluck or enjoying it at home, Chili Mac is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 6

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion
  • ½ cup bell pepper
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1 packet chili seasoning mix
  • 8 oz tomato sauce
  • 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 2 cups macaroni (uncooked)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown ground beef until cooked through. Drain excess fat.
  2. Add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic; cook until softened.
  3. Stir in chili seasoning mix, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and kidney beans. Let simmer for about 10 minutes.
  4. Cook macaroni in a large pot until al dente; drain.
  5. Prepare cheese sauce by melting butter in a saucepan, whisking in flour, then gradually adding cream and milk until smooth. Stir in spices and half the cheddar until melted.
  6. Mix cooked macaroni with chili mixture in a baking dish; pour cheese sauce over top and combine gently.
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Top with remaining cheddar and bake for about 20 minutes until bubbly.
  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 480
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 26g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For added spice, consider incorporating jalapeños or hot sauce into the chili mixture. Substitute ground turkey if you prefer a lighter option without sacrificing flavor. Feel free to add vegetables like corn or zucchini for extra nutrition.