Description

Chili Mac is the ultimate comfort food that marries the bold flavors of homemade chili with creamy macaroni and cheese. This hearty dish is perfect for cozy family dinners, potlucks, or game days, providing a satisfying blend of spices and textures that will delight everyone at the table. Easy to prepare and even more enjoyable to eat, this Chili Mac recipe is sure to become a favorite for both kids and adults alike. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time!

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
1 small onion, diced
½ cup bell pepper, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
8 oz tomato sauce
14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
2 cups macaroni (uncooked)
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup heavy cream

Instructions

In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
Add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic; sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and seasonings. Simmer for a few minutes.
Add uncooked macaroni directly into the chili mixture; cook for 10-12 minutes until pasta is tender.
In a separate pan, make a cheese sauce by melting butter and whisking in flour, then gradually adding heavy cream and milk until thickened.
Combine cheese sauce with the chili mac mixture; stir in shredded cheddar until melted.
Serve warm with fresh parsley on top.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: One-pot
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
Calories: 450
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 24g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For added nutrition, consider incorporating vegetables like zucchini or spinach. Adjust spiciness by adding jalapeños or extra hot sauce based on your preference.