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Chili Mac and Cheese

A comforting one-pot meal combining creamy macaroni and cheese with bold, spicy chili flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights or game day gatherings!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 6 people
Calories 520 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 300 g elbow macaroni or small pasta shells
  • 500 g ground beef or turkey
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
  • 400 g canned diced tomatoes
  • 400 g canned kidney or black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 240 ml beef or chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 200 g sharp cheddar cheese, grated (plus extra for topping)
  • 120 ml milk (whole or low-fat)
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • optional sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, sour cream

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Cook macaroni according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground meat, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, breaking up meat as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
  • Add chopped onion and cook 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika; cook 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Add diced tomatoes, beans, broth, and tomato paste. Simmer 5–7 minutes to thicken sauce slightly.
  • In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute to form roux. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth and thickened.
  • Stir grated cheddar into the sauce until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Combine cooked pasta, chili mixture, and cheese sauce in a large bowl or casserole dish; stir gently to coat.
  • Transfer mixture to baking dish. Sprinkle extra cheddar on top.
  • Bake 20–25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
  • Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Top with jalapeños, cilantro, or sour cream if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1peopleCalories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 26gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 17gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 780mgFiber: 5gSugar: 6g
Keyword Best Meal Prep Plans, Budget-Friendly Recipes, Easy Weeknight Dinners, Healthy Comfort Food, High Protein Meals, Quick Family Meals
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