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Comfort food holds a special place in our hearts and homes. It embodies warmth, nostalgia, and the joy of shared meals, bringing families together around the dinner table. In a world where the pace of life often feels relentless, comfort foods like macaroni and cheese or a hearty bowl of chili offer a welcome reprieve. Today, we’re diving into a delightful fusion of these classic dishes with our Spicy Chili Mac Delight. This recipe combines the rich, flavorful essence of chili with the satisfying texture of pasta, creating a dish that is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile for any occasion.

Quick & Easy "Chili Mac" Dinner

Discover the ultimate comfort food with our Spicy Chili Mac Delight! This hearty one-pot recipe combines the rich flavors of chili with pasta for a satisfying meal that's sure to impress. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or gatherings, this dish is simple to prepare and deliciously versatile. Packed with protein, fiber, and cheesy goodness, it's a dish for all ages. Try it out and bring warmth to your table! #ChiliMac #ComfortFood #EasyRecipes #FamilyDinner #CheesyPasta #OnePotMeal

Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) elbow macaroni

1 lb (450g) ground beef or turkey

1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies

1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce

1 cup beef or vegetable broth

1 medium onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons chili powder

1 teaspoon cumin

1 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Chopped green onions and sour cream for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

    Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef or turkey. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.

      Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the meat. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

        Add Ingredients: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the meat. Then add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, kidney beans, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.

          Combine with Pasta: Once the mixture is bubbly and heated through, gently fold in the cooked macaroni. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.

            Cheesy Finish: Remove from heat and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover with a lid for about 3-5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt.

              Serve: Spoon the Chili Mac into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions and a dollop of sour cream if desired. Enjoy!

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6