Certainly! 🌶️ Here’s a delicious recipe for Chili Macaroni that’s not just hearty and satisfying, but also quick to whip up, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen! 😋 Let’s dive into the details of this flavorful one-dish meal:
Chili Macaroni Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: Depends on your appetite! 🍽️
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 lb | Ground beef |
| 1 can | Chili beans |
| 1 can | Tomato sauce |
| 1 can | Diced tomatoes |
| 1 | Onion, diced |
| 1/4 | Green pepper, diced |
| 1 tbsp | Chili powder |
| 1 tsp | Ground cumin |
| 1/2 tsp | Garlic powder |
| 1/4 tsp | Cayenne pepper |
| 1/8 tsp | Black pepper |
| 1/8 tsp | Salt |
| 1 tsp | Sugar |
| Macaroni, cooked (quantity as desired) |
Instructions:
-
Brown the Meat:
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until it starts to brown, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula.
- Add in the diced onion and green pepper, continuing to cook until the vegetables are softened and the beef is fully browned and cooked through.
-
-
Drain Excess Fat:
- If there’s excess fat in the skillet, carefully drain it off.
-
Add the Flavorful Base:
- To the skillet with the beef and veggies, add in the chili beans, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, salt, and sugar.
-
Simmer and Infuse Flavors:
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This allows all those delicious flavors to meld together into a rich, hearty chili.
-
Add the Macaroni:
- While the chili is simmering, cook the macaroni according to package instructions until it’s al dente. You want it to have a slight bite to it.
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Combine and Serve:
- Once the chili has simmered and thickened slightly, add in the cooked macaroni.
- Stir everything together gently until the macaroni is well coated in the flavorful chili sauce.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- 🍲 Ladle this comforting Chili Macaroni into bowls, garnish with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream.
- It’s ready to be enjoyed piping hot, offering a perfect blend of savory beef, zesty tomatoes, and just the right amount of spice. 😍
Recipe Notes:
-
Customization: Feel free to adjust the spice levels to your liking. If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper. For an extra kick, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
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Make it Ahead: This Chili Macaroni actually tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop. It’s a great make-ahead meal for busy schedules or for meal prep.
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Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave for a quick and satisfying meal.
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Serve with: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of cornbread, a crisp green salad, or even some garlic bread for dipping into the chili sauce.
With its hearty mix of protein-packed beef, fiber-rich beans, and comforting pasta, this Chili Macaroni is a wholesome meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies with the onions and peppers! 🥩🌶️🍅 So gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a bowl of warmth and flavor that’s perfect for any time of year! 🍲✨
