Indulgent Chili Mac and Cheese for Cozy Weeknight Dinners

This Chili Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, marrying rich chili flavors with creamy cheese and tender pasta.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings: 4 bowls

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 550

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Chili Base

1 pound Ground Beef Swap for plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian option.
1 Onion Use shallots for a milder flavor.
2 cloves Garlic Fresh minced garlic is best for optimal flavor.
2 tablespoons Chili Powder Adjust for spiciness as preferred.
1 teaspoon Cumin Omit if unavailable.
15 ounces Diced Tomatoes Fresh tomatoes can be substituted when in season.
8 ounces Tomato Sauce Can be replaced with pureed roasted tomatoes.
15 ounces Kidney Beans Black beans or pinto beans are great substitutes.

For the Pasta

2 cups Elbow Macaroni Can substitute with shells or rotini.
2 cups Beef Broth Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version.

For the Cheese

2 cups Cheddar Cheese Consider Monterey Jack for a milder taste.

For Seasoning

to taste Salt
to taste Pepper Freshly ground pepper adds more complexity.

For Garnish (Optional)

¼ cup Chopped Fresh Parsley or Cilantro Basil can be a flavorful alternative.

Equipment

large pot or Dutch oven

Method

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chili Mac and Cheese

Brown the beef in a large pot over medium-high heat for 5–7 minutes until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
Lower the heat to medium and sauté onion for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, coating the meat and onions. Stir for 1–2 minutes to toast the spices.
Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and kidney beans. Stir thoroughly and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Add beef broth and uncooked elbow macaroni; mix well and bring to a boil.
Cover and reduce heat to medium-low, simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Mix in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top, cover, and let sit for 2–3 minutes.
Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro. Serve warm in bowls.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 74gProtein: 30gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 1000mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 5gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 4mg

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and a creamier texture.

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