Description
Chili Mac and Cheese is a hearty comfort dish combining creamy, cheesy macaroni with rich, flavorful chili made from seasoned ground beef, beans, and spices.
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 300 g ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (400 g) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook ground beef until browned. Remove excess fat if needed.
- Add onion and cook until softened, then stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk and cook until thickened.
- Add shredded cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
- Combine cooked macaroni with chili mixture, then stir in cheese sauce.
- Mix well and cook for 2–3 minutes until heated through. Serve warm.
Notes
- You can add jalapeños for extra heat.
- Use different beans like black beans if preferred.
- For a lighter version, use low-fat milk and cheese.
- Leftovers reheat well with a splash of milk.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American