Description
Cheesy Chili Mac blends creamy cheddar cheese, tender smoked beef, kidney beans, and diced tomatoes into a hearty one‑pot mac and cheese with a chili twist. Perfect for busy families, this comforting dish cooks in about 30 minutes, offers rich flavors, and requires minimal cleanup. Serve it with a simple green salad and a glass of chilled grape juice for a balanced, satisfying meal that everyone will love. It freezes well, letting you enjoy a quick, flavorful dinner any night after a simple rehe
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 lb smoked beef diced
- 1 can kidney beans drained and rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente, about 8 minutes; drain and set aside.
- Return the empty pot to medium heat, add a tablespoon of butter or oil, and brown the diced smoked beef for 4–5 minutes.
- Add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes with juices, beef broth, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper; stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Fold the cooked macaroni into the simmering sauce and cook for an additional 5–10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and the liquid to reduce slightly.
- Turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and the sauce is glossy.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with olive oil, fresh parsley, or extra cheese.
Notes
- For extra creaminess
- add a splash of heavy cream at the end. This dish freezes well for quick meals.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
Keywords: Cheesy Chili Mac, easy mac and cheese, chili mac recipe, comfort food dinner, quick beef meals, one pot pasta, family dinner ideas, creamy pasta recipes, stovetop mac and cheese, budget-friendly meals, dinner for a crowd