Chili Mac

Comfort food is more than just a category of cuisine; it's a way to evoke feelings of warmth, nostalgia, and satisfaction. These dishes often remind us of home, family gatherings, and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones. One such dish that embodies the essence of comfort food is Cheesy Chili Mac Delight. This hearty and flavorful recipe combines the best elements of macaroni and cheese with the rich, spicy notes of chili, making it a go-to choice for any occasion.

Indulge in this Cheesy Chili Mac Delight, a hearty and comforting dish perfect for family dinners! Made with elbow macaroni, ground beef or turkey, kidney and black beans, and crushed tomatoes, it's packed with flavor and nutrition. Spiced with chili powder and topped with gooey cheddar cheese, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy. Don't forget the optional cilantro and sour cream for extra flair!

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Ingredients

1 lb elbow macaroni

1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)

1 medium onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

2 tbsp chili powder

1 tsp cumin

1 tsp paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

1 cup beef or vegetable broth

2 tbsp olive oil

Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Sour cream for serving (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Beans and Tomatoes: Stir in the kidney beans, black beans, and crushed tomatoes. Mix well.

Season the Mixture: Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper into the skillet. Pour in the broth and stir everything together. Let it simmer for 10 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld.

Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked macaroni to the chili mixture, stirring gently to combine. Gradually mix in 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and cheesy.

Final Touches: Once everything is well combined and heated through, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top. Cover the skillet with a lid for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve: Portion the Chili Mac into bowls. Garnish with chopped cilantro and a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 6-8