Chili Mac and Cheese
Chili Mac and Cheese is a comforting blend of creamy macaroni and zesty chili flavors, creating a heartwarming dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. This easy recipe showcases tender pasta enveloped in a rich cheese sauce, complemented by savory ground meat and spices. Enjoy this crowd-pleaser on busy weeknights or during cozy movie nights—it’s sure to satisfy your cravings and warm your heart with every bite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1. Cook the pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot, add elbow macaroni, and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- 2. Brown the meat: In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef or turkey until browned. Drain excess fat.
- 3. Sauté aromatics: Add chopped onion to the skillet, cooking until softened; then add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- 4. Create the sauce: Sprinkle flour over the meat mixture while stirring. Gradually add milk while whisking until smooth; simmer gently.
- 5. Add cheese & spices: Stir in shredded cheddar until melted; mix in chili powder, diced tomatoes (with juice), salt, and pepper.
- 6. Combine everything: Fold cooked pasta into the cheese mixture until well coated.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg