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–+ servings
One-Pot Chili Mac and Cheese without Beans

One-Pot Chili Mac and Cheese Without Beans Kids Will Devour

This One-Pot Chili Mac and Cheese without Beans is a creamy, comforting dinner that's quick to prepare and packed with nutrition, perfect for family meals.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 4 cups Chicken Broth Swap for vegetable broth for a vegetarian option
  • 1 lb Minced Beef Use ground turkey for a lighter alternative
  • 2 cups Macaroni Any short pasta works well
  • 1 cup Onions Consider shallots for a milder flavor
For the Veggies
  • 1 cup Frozen Sweet Peas Corn can be substituted for variety
  • 1 cup Carrots Zucchini is a great alternative
For the Sauce
  • 2 tbsp Tomato Paste Use canned diced tomatoes if desired
  • 1 cup Evaporated Milk Regular milk or heavy cream can also be used
  • 3 cloves Garlic Cloves Garlic powder can be a quick substitute
For Seasoning
  • 1 tsp Chipotle Pepper Powder Smoked paprika is a good swap
  • 1 tsp Cumin Powder Coriander powder makes a suitable alternative
  • 1 tsp Paprika Powder Sweet paprika is recommended
  • 1 tsp Oregano Try Italian seasoning for a twist
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper

Equipment

  • large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Heat a large pot over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once shimmering, toss in the diced onions and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until they turn translucent and fragrant.
  2. Add the minced beef to the pot, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Sprinkle in minced garlic, chipotle powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano. Cook everything together for about 5-7 minutes, stirring often, until the beef is browned and no longer pink.
  3. Pour in chicken broth and stir in tomato paste, ensuring everything is well combined. Then add the macaroni and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Once the pasta is cooked al dente, stir in the frozen peas and carrots. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  5. Remove the pot from heat and gently stir in the evaporated milk.
  6. Scoop the One-Pot Chili Mac and Cheese into bowls and top with your choice of garnishes, such as chopped cilantro, scallions, grated cheese, or crispy tortilla chips.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 2500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Cook pasta al dente to prevent mushiness when stirred in with evaporated milk; aim for a bite that’s just right.

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