Chili Mac

Comfort food holds a special place in the hearts and kitchens of many families, offering warmth, nostalgia, and satisfaction in every bite. It often evokes memories of home-cooked meals shared with loved ones around the dinner table. One dish that perfectly embodies the essence of comfort food is the beloved chili mac. This scrumptious combination of macaroni and chili is not only hearty and filling but also a delightful blend of flavors and textures that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Spicy Chili Mac Delight is the perfect comfort food for any day! This flavorful dish combines ground beef or turkey, elbow macaroni, and a zesty blend of spices for a satisfying meal. With kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and creamy cheddar cheese, it’s hearty and delicious. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Top it off with fresh cilantro and sliced jalapeños for an extra kick! Give it a try!

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Ingredients

1 lb ground beef or turkey

1 cup elbow macaroni

1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies

1 can (6 oz) tomato paste

1 cup beef broth

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon chili powder

1 teaspoon cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Sliced jalapeños for garnish (optional)

Instructions

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.

Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef or turkey. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.

Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, kidney beans, and beef broth. Stir until well combined. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Once simmering, add the elbow macaroni. Stir to combine, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed some of the liquid.

Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and sliced jalapeños, if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4-6