Chili Mac
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Recipe Intro From dwellbymichelle
This Chili Mac is a cozy, family-favorite dish that's perfect for chilly nights! Combining the heartiness of chili with the comforting texture of macaroni, it's an easy recipe you'll want to make again and again. For the best flavor, I use Muir Glen Fire Roasted Crushed Tomatoes, which add a rich depth to the dish. You can find Muir Glen products at your nearest retailer: here.
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Recipe Card
ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 pound ground beef
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 (14.5 ounce) cans Muir Glen Fire Roasted Crushed Tomatoes
- 1 (15.5 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni
- 3/4 cup half and half (or milk)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, plus extra for serving
Method
Step 1
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and diced onions, and sauté until the garlic becomes fragrant and the onions soften, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 2
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and chili powder, and stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes to develop flavor.
Step 3
Pour in the Muir Glen Fire Roasted Crushed Tomatoes and stir to combine. Simmer the chili mixture until the tomatoes reduce and thicken slightly, about 10 minutes. Add the kidney beans and gently stir to incorporate. Set aside and keep warm.
Step 4
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 5
In a separate large skillet, heat the half and half over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Gradually mix in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese melts and forms a creamy sauce.
Step 6
Remove the skillet from the heat. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and toss until fully combined. Pour the prepared chili on top of the macaroni and gently stir to mix.
Step 7
Sprinkle with extra shredded cheddar cheese and serve immediately. Enjoy this hearty Chili Mac with your favorite toppings like sour cream or green onions, if desired.