Print

Savory Campfire Chili Mac and Cheese

campfire chili mac and cheese - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy comfort food recipe combining smoky chili and creamy sharp cheddar mac and cheese, perfect for cozy nights and simple meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni pasta
  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey
  • 1 can (15 oz) canned chili
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: sliced green onions, jalapeño slices, sour cream

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup pasta water.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef or turkey and cook until no longer pink, breaking it up with a spatula. Drain excess fat if needed.
  3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  4. Stir in smoked paprika and chili powder, cooking for 1 minute to bloom the spices.
  5. Pour in canned chili, stir to combine, and simmer gently for 5 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Add water or broth if chili is too thick.
  6. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
  7. Slowly whisk in milk, cooking until sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5 minutes.
  8. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
  9. Add drained macaroni to the chili mixture in the skillet. Pour cheese sauce over and stir gently to combine. Add reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time if needed to loosen the sauce.
  10. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, topped with optional green onions, jalapeños, or sour cream.
  11. Optional: For a crispy top, transfer mixture to a buttered baking dish, sprinkle extra cheese, and broil for 3-5 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Notes

Do not overcook pasta; al dente is best. Drain excess fat from meat to avoid greasiness. Bloom spices briefly for better flavor. Whisk constantly when making cheese sauce to avoid lumps. Add reserved pasta water slowly to adjust sauce thickness. Sharp cheddar cheese is recommended for best melt and flavor. For a smoky twist, add liquid smoke or smoked salt. Variations include vegetarian, gluten-free, and spicy versions.

Nutrition

Keywords: chili mac and cheese, campfire recipe, comfort food, easy dinner, cheesy chili pasta, quick weeknight meal

Find it online: https://flurpchef.com/savory-campfire-chili-mac-and-cheese-recipe-for-easy-cozy-nights/