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Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe


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  • Author: khaoula belabess
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 6 Serving 1x

Description

A hearty and comforting dish that combines classic chili with creamy macaroni and cheese, topped with melted cheddar for an irresistible flavor.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Chili:

  • 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1.25 oz packet chili seasoning mix (or use homemade seasoning)
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 8 oz tomato sauce
  • 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes (undrained)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth (or beef broth)
  • 15 oz can kidney beans, drained

For the Mac and Cheese:

  • 2 cups uncooked macaroni
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

For Baking:

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  • Prepare the Chili:
    • In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the ground beef for 2 minutes. Add onions and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the beef is browned and onions are soft. Drain any excess grease.
    • Add bell peppers and garlic, cooking until softened (about 4 minutes).
    • Stir in chili seasoning and tomato paste, cooking for 1 minute.
    • Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover partially, allowing it to thicken while you prepare the macaroni and cheese. Add kidney beans during the last 10 minutes.
  • Prepare the Mac and Cheese:
    • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
    • Begin boiling salted water for the macaroni. Once boiling, add macaroni and cook until al dente, then drain.
    • In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour, whisking continuously for 2 minutes. Gradually add heavy cream and milk, stirring constantly until smooth.
    • Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and add mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and hot sauce. Stir to combine, then reduce heat to low.
    • Gradually add shredded cheddar, stirring until melted and smooth. Add drained macaroni, stirring to coat.
  • Combine Chili and Mac and Cheese:
    • Add the prepared chili to the macaroni and cheese, stirring to combine. Adjust the amount of chili to your preference.
  • Bake:
    • Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional cheddar cheese.
    • Bake uncovered for 5 minutes or until cheese is melted. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

Notes

Feel free to use homemade chili seasoning for a personal touch.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: main course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 540
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg