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One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese

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A hearty and comforting one pot meal combining creamy mac and cheese with spicy chili, perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 pound ground beef
  • 1 cup canned kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup canned diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 2 cups chicken or beef broth
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped green onions, jalapeño slices

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
  2. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
  4. Stir in kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Mix well.
  5. Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
  6. Add the elbow macaroni, reduce heat to a simmer, cover and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until pasta is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
  7. Remove the pot from heat and stir in shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and creamy.
  8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  9. Serve hot, garnished with optional toppings like sour cream, green onions, or jalapeños if desired.

Notes

For an extra kick, add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper. This dish also freezes well for meal prep.

Find it online: https://busymomsimplenutrition.com/one-pot-chili-mac-and-cheese/