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A delicious bowl of Chili Mac and Cheese topped with melted cheese and herbs.

Chili Mac and Cheese

A comforting and satisfying combination of chili and mac and cheese that brings families together over a warm meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Beans
  • 7 oz Dried Pasta Any pasta works; gluten-free corn macaroni or whole wheat are great options.
  • 1 can 15 oz Can Black Beans Rinsed and drained.
  • 1 can 15 oz Can Red Kidney Beans Rinsed and drained.
Vegetables
  • 1 Tbsp Olive Oil Can substitute with avocado oil.
  • 1 Sweet Onion (diced) Yellow onion can be used if needed.
  • 1 Red Bell Pepper (chopped) Can substitute with yellow or green pepper.
  • 3 cups Chopped Button Mushrooms Shiitake can be used for enhanced flavor.
  • 1 cup Frozen Corn Fresh corn works during the summer.
Sauce Base
  • 1 can 15 oz Can Tomato Paste Essential for rich flavor.
  • 1 can 8 oz Can Diced Tomatoes Fire-roasted adds smokiness.
  • 2 cups Broth of choice Chicken, beef, or vegetable broth can be used.
Spices
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika Regular paprika can be used if less smokiness is preferred.
  • ½ tsp Chili Powder Use more for added heat.
  • 1 tsp Ground Cumin Adds a warm, earthy undertone.
  • 1 ½ tsp Dried Oregano Enhances the dish with herbal notes.
  • to taste Sea salt and pepper Essential for balancing flavors.
Toppings
  • as desired Grated cheddar cheese Use your favorite cheese.
  • as desired Yogurt or sour cream Greek yogurt offers a tangy twist.
  • as desired Freshly chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, sliced avocado Great toppings for added freshness.

Method
 

Cooking
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add diced onions, garlic (if using), red bell pepper, and chopped mushrooms. Sauté until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Stir in the black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, sweet corn, and spices; season with salt and pepper.
  4. Add pasta, tomato paste, and broth into the mix. Bring to a gentle boil.
  5. Lower the heat and let it simmer, stirring frequently, for about 8-10 minutes.
  6. Serve warm in bowls topped with your choice of garnishes.

Notes

You can make this dish vegetarian by simply adding extra beans instead of meat. Leftovers can be stored for up to four days in the refrigerator.