Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) chili beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it softens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and ground beef (or turkey) to the pot. Cook until the meat is browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili beans, chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and the broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
- In another pot, boil water and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the chili mixture in the large pot. Stir well to combine.
- In a small saucepan, melt the remaining butter over low heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux. Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Pour the creamy mixture into the pot with the chili mac and stir until everything is well combined.
- Add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and becomes creamy.
Notes
Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream. For storage, keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Omnivore
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg