One Pot Chili Mac

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 ½ cups chopped yellow onion
• 1 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1 lb 93% lean ground beef
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
• 4 teaspoons chili powder
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can low-sodium chicken broth, plus ½ cup more to thin if needed
• 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies (mild or hot, based on preference)
• 8 oz dry elbow macaroni (2 cups)
• 1 (15 oz) can dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ½ cup half and half (or ⅓ cup heavy cream)
• 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus more for serving if desired

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Sauté onion and bell pepper for about 5 minutes until softened.
2. Add ground beef, sear for 3 minutes, then break it apart and cook until nearly done.
3. Stir in minced garlic and spices; cook for 1 minute to toast.
4. Mix in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, green chilies, macaroni, and kidney beans. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Bring to a simmer; reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for 12–15 minutes until pasta is tender.
6. Remove from heat; stir in half-and-half and cheese until melted and creamy.
7. Serve hot with your choice of toppings.