Cheesy Beef Chili Mac
A comforting one-pot meal combining cheesy goodness with hearty chili flavors and macaroni.
Equipment
- Large pot For cooking all ingredients together.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 lb ground beef (lean)
- 28 oz crushed canned tomatoes
- 14 oz red kidney beans, drained
- 2.5 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 8 oz elbow macaroni pasta, uncooked
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or tasty cheese)
- 0.25 cup finely chopped coriander/cilantro
- 0.5 tsp cayenne pepper or chili powder
- 2 tsp paprika powder
- 2 tsp cumin powder
- 1.5 tsp onion powder (or garlic powder)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 1.25 tsp salt
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over high heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the chopped red bell pepper and continue cooking until the onion is translucent. Tip: Stir frequently to prevent burning.
- Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Brown the beef until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the beef is browned, stir in the crushed tomatoes, drained kidney beans, beef broth, uncooked elbow macaroni, and all the spices from the homemade chili powder. Tip: Make sure to mix well to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium.
- Cover the pot and cook for 12 minutes. Check periodically, stirring occasionally, until the macaroni is al dente (slightly firm to the bite). The mixture should be saucy but not overly liquidy.
- Turn off the stove but leave the pot on the burner. Stir in half of the shredded cheese until it becomes a bit saucy. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Top with the remaining cheese, cover with a lid, and let it sit for about 2 minutes until the cheese melts. Tip: This resting time helps thicken the sauce.
- Sprinkle with chopped coriander or cilantro before serving, if desired, and enjoy hot!
Notes
For a spicier kick, adjust the cayenne pepper or chili powder to suit your taste preference.