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Chili Mac, a delightful fusion of hearty chili and comforting macaroni and cheese, stands out as an iconic American dish that perfectly embodies the essence of comfort food. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate, ideal for cold evenings or busy weeknights. Families adore it for its simplicity and flavor, while busy individuals appreciate the one-pot convenience that reduces cleanup time without sacrificing taste. What’s more, Chili Mac’s versatility makes it a perfect candidate for accommodating various dietary preferences. Whether you’re a meat lover, vegetarian, or looking for a gluten-free option, this dish can easily adapt to suit your needs.

Chili Mac

Dive into this Chili Mac Madness for a comforting and flavorful meal that's ready in just 30 minutes! This hearty dish combines ground beef (or turkey), beans, and zesty spices with elbow macaroni, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in, it's easy to customize with your favorite toppings like fresh cilantro. Get ready for a deliciously filling bowl of goodness!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

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

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

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

1 cup beef broth

2 cups elbow macaroni

2 teaspoons chili powder

1 teaspoon cumin

1 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)

Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Meat: In a large pot or Dutch oven, over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

    Add Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent.

      Incorporate Beans and Tomatoes: Stir in the kidney beans, black beans, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth. Mix well to combine.

        Season It Up: Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to incorporate all the flavors.

          Add Pasta: Bring the mixture to a simmer and add the elbow macaroni. Stir well, and reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.

            Cheesy Goodness: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.

              Serve and Garnish: Ladle the chili mac into bowls, top with extra shredded cheese, and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley, if desired.

                Enjoy: Serve hot and enjoy this comforting dish!

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