Tex Mex Chili Mac

Satisfy your cravings for bold flavors and hearty comfort with Tex Mex Chili Mac, a one-pot wonder that combines the zesty spices of chili with the creamy indulgence of classic mac and cheese. This easy-to-make dinner comes together in just 50 minutes, featuring tender ground beef, plump kidney beans, and perfectly cooked elbow macaroni simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce infused with chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Topped with a generous helping of melted sharp cheddar and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, this dish is bursting with Tex-Mex flair. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this crowd-pleasing recipe delivers robust flavor and minimal cleanup, making it a go-to option for anyone seeking a quick, satisfying meal.

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:35 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Rotel)
• 8 ounces tomato sauce
• 3 cups beef broth
• 15 ounces kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease if necessary.

Step 3

Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4

Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.

Step 5

Add the diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir well to combine.

Step 6

Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the drained kidney beans and uncooked elbow macaroni.

Step 7

Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the macaroni is cooked through and tender.

Step 8

Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well incorporated.

Step 9

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, if desired.

Step 10

Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	2855.9 grams (2855.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3643

Total Fat 192.60g	247%
Saturated Fat 86.90g	435%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 521mg	174%
Sodium 8494mg	369%
Total Carbohydrate 288.50g	105%
Dietary Fiber 38.50g	138%
Total Sugars 27.10g
Protein 194.10g	388%

Vitamin D 48IU	240%
Calcium 2022mg	156%
Iron 27mg	152%
Potassium 4270mg	91%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 47.3%

Protein: 21.2%

Carbs: 31.5%