Description
Chili Mac is a delightful fusion of hearty chili and creamy macaroni and cheese that will quickly become your go-to comfort food. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or game day gatherings, this dish brings together bold flavors and easy preparation. Enjoy the satisfying combination of seasoned ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and gooey cheese all in one bowl. Whether you choose to bake it for a bubbly finish or serve it fresh off the stove, Chili Mac promises to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, making it an ideal choice for meal prepping. Dive into this comforting recipe and savor every bite!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
- 1 small onion (diced)
- ½ cup bell pepper (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (diced)
- 1 packet chili seasoning mix
- 8 oz tomato sauce
- 2 cups macaroni (uncooked)
- 1½ cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until crumbled and browned. Add diced onions and cook until softened.
- Drain excess grease, then stir in bell peppers and garlic; cook until tender.
- Mix in chili seasoning, tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth; bring to a boil and simmer.
- In a separate pot, boil salted water and cook macaroni until al dente, then drain.
- In a Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat; whisk in flour, then gradually add heavy cream and milk. Bring to a boil before reducing heat.
- Stir in seasonings and cheese until smooth; fold in macaroni.
- Combine chili with the mac-and-cheese mixture; transfer to a greased baking dish topped with more cheese.
- Bake at 400°F for about 5 minutes until cheese is melted.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg