Beefy Chili Mac and Cheese Bake

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) beef broth
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. 2 Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. 3 In a large skillet, brown ground beef with onions and garlic; drain fat.
4. 4 Stir in kidney beans, diced tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. 5 In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux, then gradually add milk, whisking constantly until thickened.
6. 6 Combine cooked macaroni, beef chili mixture, and roux sauce in a large bowl. Stir in 1.5 cups cheddar cheese.
7. 7 Transfer mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
8. 8 Top with remaining cheddar cheese.
9. 9 Bake for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
10. 10 Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Equipment

• Large skillet
• 9x13 inch baking dish
• Saucepan

Variations

• Add corn or bell peppers for extra veggies.
• Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner option.

Substitutions

• Use vegetable broth and omit beef for a vegetarian version.
• Substitute cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.

Pairings

• Pairs well with a light lager.
• Serve with fresh cornbread on the side.

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra spice, add a dash of cayenne pepper to the chili mixture.
• Use whole wheat macaroni for a healthier twist.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 375°F until hot and bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of garlic bread.
• Pair with a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

FAQ