Description
Easy Chili Mac is the ultimate weeknight comfort food that combines the rich flavors of chili with creamy macaroni and cheese. This one-pot dish is not only hearty but also quick to prepare, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish. With a blend of spices, savory ground beef, and melted cheeses, it’s a meal that will satisfy the entire family. Ideal for busy evenings or casual gatherings, Easy Chili Mac can be customized to your liking—add veggies or adjust spice levels for a personal touch. Serve it up with your favorite toppings for an extra burst of flavor!
Ingredients
- Olive oil
- Onion
- Garlic
- Bell pepper
- Ground beef
- Chili powder
- Cumin
- Smoked paprika
- Crushed tomatoes
- Tomato sauce
- Kidney beans
- Beef broth
- Elbow macaroni
- Cheddar cheese
- Mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté diced onion until soft, then add minced garlic and chopped bell pepper until fragrant.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika for 1–2 minutes.
- Mix in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, and beef broth. Bring to a boil before adding uncooked elbow macaroni. Lower heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes until pasta is al dente.
- Remove from heat and gradually stir in half a cup each of cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Adjust seasoning as necessary.
- Top with remaining cheese, cover for 2 minutes to melt, then serve hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg