Meaty cheesy chili mac with penne pasta

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Introduction:
Meaty Cheesy Chili Mac with Penne Pasta is a hearty and comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of chili, creamy cheese sauce, tender pasta, and savory ground meat. This satisfying meal is perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a delicious twist on classic comfort food favorites. With its hearty texture and cheesy goodness, Meaty Cheesy Chili Mac is sure to become a crowd-pleasing favorite in your household.

Origin and Popularity:
The origin of Meaty Cheesy Chili Mac can be traced back to American cuisine, where it has become a beloved comfort food staple. Combining elements of chili, macaroni and cheese, and pasta dishes, this hearty and flavorful meal offers a satisfying balance of protein, carbohydrates, and indulgent cheesy goodness. While the exact origins of the dish are unclear, variations of chili mac have been enjoyed by families across the United States for generations, making it a cherished part of American culinary tradition.

Ingredients:

For the Chili:

  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (14 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup beef or chicken broth

For the Cheese Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pasta:

  • 12 ounces penne pasta, cooked according to package instructions
  • Chopped fresh cilantro or green onions, for garnish (optional)

Optional Toppings:

  • Sour cream
  • Sliced jalapenos
  • Diced avocado
  • Crushed tortilla chips
  • Chopped fresh tomatoes

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Chili:
  • In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned and cooked through.
  • Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper to the skillet, and cook until the vegetables are softened.
  • Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, tomato paste, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
  • Pour in the beef or chicken broth, stirring to incorporate. Bring the chili to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat and set aside.
  1. Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
  • In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to form a roux.
  • Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden.
  • Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
  • Continue cooking the sauce until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  1. Assemble the Meaty Cheesy Chili Mac:
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta with the prepared chili and cheese sauce. Mix until the pasta is evenly coated.
  1. Bake the Casserole:
  • Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and bubbly.
  1. Serve and Enjoy:
  • Remove the Meaty Cheesy Chili Mac from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
  • Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or green onions, if desired.
  • Serve hot, with optional toppings such as sour cream, sliced jalapenos, diced avocado, crushed tortilla chips, or chopped fresh tomatoes on the side.

Tips:

  • For a spicier chili, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the chili seasoning.
  • Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite chili ingredients, such as corn, black beans, or diced green chilies.
  • Leftover Meaty Cheesy Chili Mac can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Conclusion:
Meaty Cheesy Chili Mac with Penne Pasta is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together the best flavors of chili, macaroni and cheese, and hearty pasta dishes. With its savory chili base, creamy cheese sauce, and tender penne pasta, this flavorful casserole is sure to satisfy even the heartiest appetites. Whether served for a cozy family dinner or casual gathering with friends, Meaty Cheesy Chili Mac is a comforting and crowd-pleasing meal that is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Recommendation:
Pair Meaty Cheesy Chili Mac with a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the rich and hearty flavors of the casserole. Enjoy this comforting and satisfying dish with family and friends, and savor the deliciousness of homemade comfort food at its best!

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