Description
Summer Chili Mac and Cheese is a delightful fusion of creamy mac and cheese with zesty chili flavors, perfect for sunny picnics or BBQs. This dish combines tender elbow macaroni, seasoned ground beef, and gooey cheddar cheese, creating a comforting meal that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful. Easy to prepare and customizable, this recipe will have your guests asking for seconds. Get ready for a summer celebration in every bite!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 lb lean ground beef or turkey
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced fire-roasted tomatoes
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Boil the macaroni in salted water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground meat until fully cooked.
- Add chili powder, salt, pepper, and diced tomatoes; simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir in cheddar cheese over low heat until melted; add a splash of milk if needed.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the chili mixture; mix well.
- Remove from heat and fold in sour cream until smooth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg