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Easy Chili Mac and Cheese

Easy Chili Mac and Cheese

A cozy one-pot mashup of hearty chili and creamy mac and cheese. Weeknight-friendly, kid-approved, and ready fast.
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients
 

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 cup diced yellow onion
  • 1 tbsp minced garlic about 3 cloves
  • 1.5 tbsp chili powder
  • 1.25 tsp ground cumin
  • 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1.25 tsp kosher salt to taste
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 0.25 tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional, for heat
  • 15 oz tomato sauce
  • 14.5 oz diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 15 oz kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 3 cup beef broth low-sodium if possible
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 12 oz dry elbow macaroni
  • 2 cup shredded sharp cheddar measure lightly packed
  • 0.5 cup shredded Monterey Jack optional, extra creamy
  • 2 tbsp sliced green onions for serving

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Warm the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  • Brown the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks, 4–6 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  • Stir in the onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
  • Season with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Toast spices 30 seconds.
  • Pour in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beans, broth, and Worcestershire. Mix in the dry macaroni.
  • Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a lively simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring often, 10–12 minutes until pasta is just tender.
  • Lower heat. Fold in cheddar and Monterey Jack until melted and creamy. Adjust salt and pepper.
  • Let stand 2 minutes to thicken. Sprinkle with green onions and serve hot.

Notes

Variation: Swap kidney beans for black beans or add 1 cup of corn for sweetness. For a spicier bowl, stir in a minced jalapeño with the onion. Make-ahead tip: Refrigerate up to 4 days; reheat gently with a splash of broth or milk to loosen.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Easy Chili Mac and Cheese flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.