Description
A hearty and comforting one-pot meal that combines the flavors of chili with creamy mac and cheese. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chili:
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups beef or chicken broth
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Meat: In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef or turkey until browned. Add onion and garlic, cook until softened.
- Season and Simmer: Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add tomatoes, beans, and broth. Stir in macaroni, bring to a boil, then simmer covered for 12-15 minutes.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from heat, stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Garnish with parsley or green onions before serving hot.
Notes
- For extra heat, add cayenne or jalapeños
- Substitute ground chicken or omit meat for a vegetarian version
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
