Teresa's Recipes
Chili Mac and Cheese
Chili Mac and Cheese is a delicious fusion of two beloved comfort foods - chili and macaroni and cheese. This hearty dish combines the savory flavors of seasoned ground beef, the warmth of spices, and the creaminess of melted cheddar cheese, all enveloped in tender macaroni. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings and keep you coming back for more. It has roots in American cuisine, where it has evolved from traditional chili recipes and classic mac and cheese, making it a staple in many households.
Ingredients
- 2 cups, shredded Cheddar cheese
- 2 cups, uncooked Macaroni
- 1 cup Tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Cumin
- 2 tablespoons Chili powder
- 3 cloves, minced Garlic
- 1 medium, chopped Onion
- 1 pound Ground beef
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 1/2 cup Water
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 6
- Dish Type: Main Course
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Calories: 550
- Fat: 30g
- Carbs: 45g
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Sugar: 6g
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, onion, and garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, black pepper, paprika, and tomato sauce. Add water and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- While the chili mixture simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Once the chili mixture has thickened, add the cooked macaroni to the skillet and stir to combine everything evenly.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the dish is creamy.
- Serve the chili mac and cheese hot, garnished with additional cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the chili mixture.
- You can substitute ground beef with turkey or a plant-based protein for a lighter or vegetarian option.
- Top with crushed tortilla chips or sour cream for added texture and flavor.