Description
Chili Mac is a comforting fusion of hearty chili and creamy macaroni and cheese, making it the perfect dish for family dinners, potlucks, or game day celebrations. This delightful recipe combines rich flavors and satisfying textures that will appeal to the whole family. It features ground beef simmered with flavorful spices, combined with al dente macaroni enveloped in a velvety cheese sauce. Whether served as a main course or paired with sides like cornbread or a fresh salad, this Chili Mac is sure to become a favorite. Plus, its make-ahead option makes meal prep a breeze for busy nights.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
- 1 small onion (diced)
- ½ cup bell pepper (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 8 oz tomato sauce
- 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes (undrained)
- 2 cups macaroni (uncooked)
- 1½ cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook ground beef until browned; add onions and bell peppers, cooking until softened.
- Stir in garlic, chili seasoning mix, and tomato paste; then add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
- In a Dutch oven, melt butter and whisk in flour; gradually add heavy cream and milk until smooth. Stir in seasonings and cheese until melted.
- Combine the chili with the macaroni; transfer to an oven-safe dish, top with remaining cheese, and bake at 400°F for about 5 minutes until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 530
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg