Description
Indulge in the comforting yet refreshing flavors of Summer Chili Mac and Cheese. This vibrant dish combines creamy cheddar cheese with spicy chili and colorful elbow macaroni, delivering a delightful burst of flavor that will remind you of sunny afternoons and backyard barbecues. Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, this dish is an instant crowd-pleaser that promises to make your summer meals unforgettable.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey (lean)
- 1 can (15 oz) chili beans, drained
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 cup milk
- 4 oz cream cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté diced onion and bell pepper for about 3–5 minutes until soft.
- Add ground beef or turkey to the skillet, cooking until browned, approximately 5–7 minutes. Break up any large chunks.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper; cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Mix in diced tomatoes (with juices), chili beans, milk, cream cheese, and cooked macaroni. Stir until well combined.
- Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese while stirring until melted and creamy, about 3–4 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg