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Irresistible Chili Mac Recipe – Easy Cheesy Comfort Dinner

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A hearty, cheesy chili macaroni recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekend meals. Quick, easy, and packed with flavor, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 15 oz can tomato sauce
  • 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes (fire-roasted optional)
  • 15 oz can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups chicken or beef broth

Instructions

  1. Heat a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease.
  2. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until onion turns translucent and fragrant.
  3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toast spices for about 30 seconds to release their flavors.
  4. Pour in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Mix well and bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Add rinsed kidney beans and uncooked elbow macaroni to the skillet. Stir to combine, ensuring pasta is submerged in the liquid.
  6. Cover skillet and let everything simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking.
  7. Once pasta is cooked to al dente, remove skillet from heat. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
  8. Let chili mac rest for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld together. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

Toast your spices for a deeper flavor. Use lean ground beef to minimize grease. Customize the recipe with your favorite ingredients like different beans, cheeses, or spices. Cook pasta directly in the sauce for added flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: chili mac, cheesy dinner, comfort food, quick dinner, kid-friendly, easy recipe

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