Description
Welcome to the ultimate one-pot wonder that marries the robust, spicy flavors of a classic chili with the comforting, familiar embrace of macaroni. This Hearty Chili Macaroni Delight is more than just a meal; it’s a crowd-pleasing solution for busy weeknights, game day gatherings, or any time you crave deep, satisfying flavors. It’s incredibly versatile, easy to make, and guaranteed to become a family favorite. The beauty lies in its simplicity—everything cooks in one pot, melding together to create a dish that is greater than the sum of its parts. Let’s dive into creating this delicious masterpiece.
Ingredients
- For the Base:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
- 1 large green bell pepper, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1.5 pounds ground beef (85/15 lean-to-fat ratio recommended)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until no longer pink, about 8-10 minutes. Drain excess fat if desired.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Remove from heat. Let stand, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken.
- Serve hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions if desired.
Notes
For a spicier chili, add a diced jalapeño with the bell pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper with the other spices. You can substitute ground turkey or a plant-based ground meat for the beef. If the mixture becomes too thick while the pasta cooks, add a splash of extra broth or water. Leftovers will thicken in the fridge; reheat with a little water or broth to loosen.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 45
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 209
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Unsaturated Fat: 5
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 11
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 8
- Cholesterol: 17