Description
Chili Mac is the ultimate comfort food that effortlessly combines the robust flavors of homemade chili with the creamy goodness of macaroni and cheese. This hearty dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, potluck gatherings, or game day celebrations. With its rich blend of spices and melted cheese, Chili Mac is sure to satisfy your cravings while warming your soul. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste preferences, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
- 1 small onion (diced)
- ½ cup bell pepper (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1.25 oz chili seasoning mix
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 8 oz tomato sauce
- 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes (undrained)
- ½ cup chicken or beef broth
- 1 can kidney beans (drained)
- 2 cups macaroni (uncooked)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes. Add diced onions, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until soft.
- Stir in bell peppers and garlic; cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Add chili seasoning mix and tomato paste; stir well.
- Pour in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and broth; bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer.
- In another pot, cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
- In a Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until lightly golden; gradually add heavy cream and milk while stirring continuously.
- Once the mixture boils, lower the heat and add hot sauce, mustard powder, salt, pepper, and cheese until smooth.
- Gently fold in cooked macaroni and mix with the chili mixture.
- Transfer to an oven-safe dish, top with remaining cheese, and bake at 400°F for about 5 minutes or until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 90mg