Easy Chili Mac Recipe

cheddar cheese

🥗Healthier: reduced-fat cheese

💰Cheaper: processed cheese

Reduced-fat cheese lowers calories while maintaining flavor.

Italian sausage

🥗Healthier: turkey sausage

💰Cheaper: ground beef

Turkey sausage is leaner, while ground beef is often less expensive.

Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente, then drain.

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat until fully cooked.

Add chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

Stir in chili powder and cumin; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Add diced tomatoes and kidney beans; simmer for 10 minutes to combine flavors.

In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat; whisk in flour to create a roux for 2 minutes.

Gradually add milk, whisking until smooth and thickened, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and creamy; season with salt and black pepper.

Combine the meat mixture with the cheese sauce; mix well.

Fold in cooked macaroni until evenly coated.

Transfer to a baking dish; top with mozzarella cheese.

Bake at 350°F until bubbly and golden, about 20-25 minutes.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens