Description

Chili Mac is the perfect blend of comforting flavors, combining hearty homemade chili with creamy macaroni and cheese. This dish is a family favorite that shines at dinner tables, potlucks, and game day gatherings. With its rich taste and satisfying textures, Chili Mac is sure to impress both kids and adults alike. Quick to prepare and versatile, it’s a meal that everyone can enjoy any time of the year.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
1 small onion (diced)
½ cup bell pepper (diced)
3 cloves garlic (diced)
1 packet chili seasoning mix
8 oz tomato sauce
1 can kidney beans (drained)
2 cups macaroni (uncooked)
1½ cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium heat; drain excess fat.
Sauté diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic with the beef until onions are translucent.
Mix in chili seasoning, tomato sauce, and kidney beans; simmer for 20 minutes.
Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain.
In a separate pot, make cheese sauce by melting butter, whisking in flour, then adding cream and milk until thickened.
Stir cooked macaroni into cheese sauce with mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, hot sauce, and shredded cheddar until melted.
Combine chili mixture with macaroni and cheese; serve garnished with fresh parsley.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Cooking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 550
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 44g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Customize spice levels by adjusting the chili seasoning or adding jalapeños. For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with lentils or plant-based protein.