Chili Mac ‘n Cheese (30 Minutes)

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Chili mac ‘n cheese is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines the flavors of chili and cheesy pasta into one delicious meal. This recipe features tender ground beef simmered in a rich tomato-based chili sauce, combined with macaroni noodles and melted cheese. It’s a perfect balance of spicy, cheesy, and comforting flavors that will please the whole family. Let’s get cooking!

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4–6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
  2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
  3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  4. Meanwhile, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  5. Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet with the chili mixture and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
  6. Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil to melt the cheese for a few minutes.
  7. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired and serve hot.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or jalapenos to the chili mixture. Serve with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chopped green onions for added freshness. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated as needed. Enjoy!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Carbohydrates: 37g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

Pair this with...

Jalapeño Corn Muffins

Begin by warming your oven and lining a muffin tin with paper liners. In a mixing bowl, combine cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, milk, and an egg. Merge the wet and dry ingredients, mixing just until they become friends. Now, fold in some finely diced jalapeños (adjusting the amount based on your heat preference) and perhaps a handful of grated cheddar cheese for added richness. Spoon this vibrant batter into the muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full. Into the oven they go! Bake until they rise proudly and sport a golden crown. Let them cool slightly, then dive in.

Simple Tossed Salad

Start by tearing your iceberg lettuce into bite-sized pieces, ensuring a cool and crunchy base. Thinly slice a red onion, adding a pop of color and a zesty kick. For a refreshing crunch, slice up some cucumber, and for a sweet contrast, add in slivers of red pepper. Once your components are prepped and in the bowl, give everything a good toss, ensuring the ingredients are mixed and every bite will have a little bit of everything. For a simple dressing, squeeze the juice of a fresh lemon over the top, adding a burst of citrusy brightness.

Peach Iced Tea

Start by selecting a quality black or green tea as your base. Brew the tea a touch stronger than usual, as the ice and peach infusion will mellow its intensity. While your tea is steeping, prepare a peach syrup by simmering fresh or frozen peach slices with a bit of water until they're soft and have released their juices. Blend this mixture and strain it to get a smooth peach concentrate. Once your tea has cooled to room temperature, combine it with the peach syrup in a pitcher, adjusting to your desired sweetness. Chill in the fridge to let the flavors marry. When you're ready to serve, fill glasses with ice, pour over your peach-infused tea, and garnish with a fresh peach slice or a sprig of mint.

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