Description
Embrace the vibrant tastes of summer with this Summer Chili Mac and Cheese. This delightful dish combines creamy cheddar cheese with hearty chili flavors, creating a perfect blend that satisfies every craving. With colorful bell peppers and optional crispy bacon, it’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors! Ideal for family gatherings or casual nights in, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and keep everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 lb lean ground beef or turkey
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (no added sugar)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (red or yellow)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 strips bacon bits (optional)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil salted water and cook elbow macaroni until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Sauté meat and veggies: In the same pot, cook ground beef or turkey with onions and bell peppers over medium heat until browned (5-7 minutes).
- Add flavor: Stir in garlic, chili powder, diced tomatoes (with juices), salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
- Combine: Return cooked macaroni to the pot and mix in cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Add crunch (optional): Stir in bacon bits or sprinkle on top before serving.
- Garnish and serve hot with fresh herbs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg