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Chili Mac

Chili Mac

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Chili Mac is your go-to comfort dish, blending the heartiness of chili with the creaminess of macaroni and cheese. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with family and friends. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it’s a meal that will warm you from the inside out. Plus, it’s adaptable to various dietary preferences, making it a hit for everyone at the table. Serve this delightful dish as a quick dinner option or a crowd-pleasing potluck favorite; either way, it’s sure to leave smiles all around!

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)
  • ½ cup chicken broth (can substitute beef broth)
  • 1 15 oz. can kidney beans, drained
  • 2 cups macaroni (uncooked)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup milk
  • ½ teaspoon mustard powder
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon each: salt/pepper
  • ½ teaspoon hot sauce
  • 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion and bell pepper until softened.
  2. Add ground beef; cook until browned, breaking it apart as you go.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and chili seasoning mix; cook for one minute until fragrant.
  4. Mix in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and kidney beans; let simmer for about 10 minutes.
  5. In another pot, prepare cheese sauce by melting butter and whisking in flour, followed by heavy cream and milk until thickened.
  6. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and combine with cheese sauce along with mustard powder and hot sauce.
  7. Fold the mac and cheese into the chili mixture; top with shredded cheddar cheese and allow to melt before serving.

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