Description
This creamy chili mac combines hearty beef chili and cheesy macaroni for the ultimate comfort meal. Perfect for family dinners or game day nights.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef (85–90% lean)
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- ½ cup diced bell pepper
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
- 2½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- Chopped parsley or green onions (to serve)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and onion, cooking 5 minutes until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in bell pepper and garlic. Cook 2 to 3 minutes until softened.
- Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir for 30 seconds to bloom the spices.
- Mix in tomato paste, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add beans during the last 5 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In another large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute. Slowly whisk in cream and milk, stirring until smooth.
- Add mustard powder, onion powder, and hot sauce. Reduce heat to low and stir in 2 cups cheddar until creamy.
- Stir macaroni into cheese sauce, then gently fold in chili.
- Sprinkle remaining ½ cup cheddar on top. Bake at 400°F for 5 minutes, or until melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- This dish reheats well for meal prep.
- Adjust hot sauce to your preferred spice level.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: One-Pot/Stovetop and Baked
- Cuisine: American