Name: Chili Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked); 1 pound ground beef or turkey; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup milk or broth (for creaminess); Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: sliced green onions, sour cream, or hot sauce for garnish

Chili Mac and Cheese combines the hearty flavors of chili with the creamy comfort of mac and cheese. This dish is packed with protein, veggies, and bold spices, making it a satisfying and nutritious choice for dinner. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a family-friendly meal that’s quick, wholesome, and endlessly customizable.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercooking the pasta ensures it holds its texture when combined with the sauce.
Layer the Cheese: Use a mix of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack for a rich, melty topping.
Boost Nutrition: Add spinach, kale, or diced zucchini for extra vitamins.
Season to Taste: Adjust the chili powder and cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.
One-Pot Option: Cook everything in one large skillet for easy cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chili Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that doesn’t compromise on health or flavor. It’s a protein-packed dish, perfect for picky eaters, as it sneaks in beans and veggies amidst gooey, cheesy pasta. With its quick prep and cook time, it’s a lifesaver on busy evenings. The smoky chili flavors paired with creamy cheese create a crowd-pleasing dish, great for leftovers or potlucks.

Yield: 6 servings

Chili Mac and Cheese

A hearty, cheesy, and flavorful dish combining chili and mac and cheese, perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Additional Time 5 minutes

Total Time 40 minutes

Ingredients

2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
1 pound ground beef or turkey
1 medium onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup milk or broth (for creaminess)
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: sliced green onions, sour cream, or hot sauce for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Boil the macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Brown the Meat: In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
Sauté Veggies: Add diced onion and garlic to the skillet, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
Build the Base: Stir in black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and spices. Let simmer for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
Add Creaminess: Reduce heat and stir in milk or broth, followed by half the shredded cheese. Mix until smooth.
Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet and mix until evenly coated with the sauce.
Top and Melt: Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, cover, and let it melt for 3-4 minutes.
Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with green onions, sour cream, or hot sauce, and serve warm.

Notes

For a crispy topping, broil the dish in an oven-safe skillet for 2-3 minutes.
Adjust spices for kid-friendly or spicy versions.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 556Total Fat 30gSaturated Fat 13gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 12gCholesterol 131mgSodium 481mgCarbohydrates 29gFiber 4gSugar 5gProtein 43g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

Pasta: Use elbow macaroni for the traditional shape, but penne or shells work well too.
Ground Protein: Lean ground beef or turkey is classic, but plant-based crumbles are a great vegetarian option.
Beans: Black beans or kidney beans add protein and texture; rinse and drain for less sodium.
Cheese: A combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella ensures a perfect melt.
Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes and tomato paste provide a rich base; fire-roasted tomatoes add a smoky touch.
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika give depth; adjust cayenne for heat.

Variations and Substitutions

Protein Alternatives: Swap ground beef for turkey, chicken, or a plant-based alternative.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for dietary needs.
Dairy-Free: Substitute with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for creaminess.
Vegetarian: Skip the meat and double the beans for a hearty vegetarian version.
Tex-Mex Twist: Add corn, diced jalapeños, and a squeeze of lime for a southwestern flair.

Storage Options

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk or broth to revive creaminess.
Freezer: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.