Simple Chili Mac
This one-pot meal combines two comfort food classics and feeds a crowd for under $10. The pasta cooks right in the chili, so everything gets nicely thickened and flavor-packed.
Ingredients
Ingredients (~8 servings)
- 1 1/2 lbs lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 3 Tbsp chili powder
- 1 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 can diced green chilies 4 oz
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 can tomato sauce 15 oz
- 3/4 cup heavy cream or evaporated milk
- 1 1/2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 3 cups Mexican blend cheese or cheddar shredded
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown ground beef and onion in Dutch oven over medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes, breaking up meat. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, and green chilies. Cook 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Add beef broth, tomato sauce, and cream. Increase heat to high and bring to boil.
- Add macaroni, reduce heat to medium, and simmer uncovered 13-15 minutes, stirring every few minutes, until pasta is tender and liquid reduces by half.
- Remove from heat and stir in cheese until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
If liquid reduces too quickly, add 1/2 cup broth and lower heat. For thicker consistency, cover and let sit 5 minutes.
Did you make this recipe?Let me know how you liked it below!