This Chili Mac and Cheese is made from scratch in 30 minutes for a warm, comforting meal!
Happy New Year! If you expected a healthy recipe today, I hear you — but it’s still cold outside and comfort food is calling. Don’t worry: I’ll be sharing lighter options later this month to keep things balanced. For now, let’s enjoy something warm and satisfying.
When the weather turns chilly, nothing beats a hot, hearty dinner. This Chili Mac and Cheese combines a quick from-scratch chili with a simple creamy cheese sauce and elbow macaroni for a filling family meal that comes together in about 30 minutes.
I like to finish my bowl with a dollop of sour cream and an extra sprinkle of cheese. It’s pure comfort in a bowl — something your family will want again and again throughout the season.
My kids love it because it’s mac and cheese, and I love that it has meat and beans to help keep everyone satisfied.
What’s your favorite winter comfort food?
Chili Mac and Cheese
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Ingredients
Quick Chili Recipe:
- 1 lb lean ground beef, (85/15 or leaner)
- 15 oz can pinto beans
- 15 oz can tomato sauce
- 3 Tbsp homemade taco seasoning, or 1 store-bought packet of taco or chili seasoning
- 2 Tbsp brown sugar
- ¼ cup sour cream
Easy Mac and Cheese:
- ¼ cup butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 8 oz shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 oz elbow macaroni noodles
- salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
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In a large pot, brown the ground beef and drain any excess fat. Return the beef to the pot and add the pinto beans, tomato sauce, taco seasoning, brown sugar, and sour cream. Stir to combine and keep warm.
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In a separate pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions. Drain when done.
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While the pasta cooks, make the cheese sauce: melt the butter in a medium saucepan, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking, bring to a simmer, then stir in the shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
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Add the drained noodles to the pot with the chili, then pour in the cheese sauce. Stir until everything is combined and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Notes
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