A rich, creamy, and satisfying one-pot dish combining chili flavors with macaroni and cheese, high in protein and quick to prepare.
# What You'll Need:
→ Protein
01 - 1 lb ground beef (90% lean or higher)
→ Aromatics
02 - 1 medium yellow onion, diced
03 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
→ Spices & Seasonings
04 - 2 tbsp chili powder
05 - 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin
06 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
07 - 1/2 tsp kosher salt
08 - 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
→ Sauce Base
09 - 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
10 - 1/2 cup tomato sauce
11 - 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
→ Pasta
12 - 2 cups dry elbow macaroni (8 oz)
→ Cheese
13 - 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (8 oz)
→ Optional Add-Ins
14 - 1 can (15 oz) black beans or kidney beans, drained and rinsed
15 - 1 fresh jalapeño, seeded and diced
→ Toppings
16 - Sliced green onions
17 - Sour cream
18 - Crushed tortilla chips
19 - Fresh cilantro leaves
# Method:
01 - Heat a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking up with a wooden spoon, until browned throughout, 4 to 5 minutes. Drain excess fat if desired.
02 - Add diced onion to the browned meat and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
03 - Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper over the meat mixture. Stir constantly for 1 minute to toast the spices and coat everything evenly.
04 - Pour in diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients and bring to a gentle boil.
05 - Stir in dry macaroni and optional beans or jalapeño. Return to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, cooking until pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed, 10 to 12 minutes.
06 - Remove from heat. Sprinkle shredded cheddar evenly over the surface and let sit 1 minute. Stir until cheese is completely melted and sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
07 - Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper as needed. Ladle into bowls and top with green onions, sour cream, tortilla chips, cilantro, or extra cheese. Serve immediately while hot.
