30-Minute Chili Mac
User Reviews
5
-
Prep Time
15 mins
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Cook Time
10 mins
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Total Time
25 mins
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Servings
4
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Calories
387 kcal
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Course
Main Course, Dinner
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Cuisine
American
30-Minute Chili Mac
Description
This recipe starts by seasoning ground turkey or beef with salt, garlic powder, and onion powder before browning it in a skillet. Adding marinara sauce, Sriracha, remaining garlic powder, and cumin infuses the meat with a balanced chili flavor and subtle heat. Simmering the sauce melds the spices while maintaining freshness.
After simmering, cooked elbow macaroni is stirred in to soak up the flavors. Serving with shredded cheddar cheese adds creaminess and sharpness, complementing the spicy and savory notes. Optionally, the dish can be baked with cheese on top for a melted finish.
This chili mac works well as a practical weeknight dinner or meal prep option. Adjust the amount of Sriracha to control the spice level. Serve alongside roasted vegetables or breadsticks for a complete meal.
Leftovers can be refrigerated in sealed containers, making it convenient for reheating. Omitting the Sriracha creates a mild version suitable for sensitive palates.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey or ground beef, lean
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tsp garlic powder divided
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 24 oz marinara sauce or your favorite pasta sauce
- 2-3 tsp sriracha depending on desired spice level*
- 8 oz elbow macaroni cooked to al dente and drained (not rinsed)
- cheddar cheese shredded; for serving
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine ground turkey or beef with salt, 1 tsp garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground meat, stirring until cooked through.
- Add pasta sauce, stirring well. Then add 2-3 tsp Sriracha, 1 tsp garlic, and cumin. Stir to combine.
- Bring to boil over high heat, and immediately reduce to low heat. Simmer covered for 10 minutes. Then, stir in cooked macaroni until heated through. Serve with shredded cheddar cheese.
- If desired, place finished chili mac into a casserole dish, sprinkle with cheese, and place in oven for about 10 minutes, or just until cheese melts.
Notes
- For a non-spicy version, omit the Sriracha or use a milder hot sauce.
- This dish is ideal for meal prep; portion into containers to enjoy over several days.
- Pair the chili mac with roasted vegetables or breadsticks for a full meal.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 387 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 387kcal | 19% |
| Carbohydrates | 53g | 18% |
| Protein | 37g | 74% |
| Fat | 4g | 6% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g | 6% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Trans Fat | 0.02g | 1% |
| Cholesterol | 62mg | 21% |
| Sodium | 904mg | 38% |
| Potassium | 1001mg | 21% |
| Fiber | 5g | 20% |
| Sugar | 8g | 16% |
| Vitamin A | 774IU | 15% |
| Vitamin C | 14mg | 16% |
| Calcium | 47mg | 5% |
| Iron | 4mg | 22% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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