Chili Mac

Prep Time: 20 mins | Cook Time: 30 mins | Course: Dinner | Servings: 8

Chili and mac n cheese is the perfect marriage; Super Bowl Sunday or just a wintry day is perfect for having this bowl of comfort. Can be made in a crockpot or in a dutch oven. Always inspired by Chungah of Damn Delicious https://damndelicious.net/2014/03/15/one-pot-chili-mac-cheese/ 

1 large onion, chopped

1 lb hamburger

3 cloves garlic, minced

1-quart chicken broth

28-oz tomatoes, crushed or diced

2 cups pinto beans, cooked (rinsed if from a can)

1 Tbsp chili powder

1 Tbsp cumin

Salt and pepper, to taste

10 oz macaroni elbows

Garnish:

1 cup cheddar cheese shreds

2 Tbsp green onions, chopped

2 Tbsp parsley or cilantro, chopped

Stir onion and hamburger in a dutch oven over medium-low heat for about 5 minutes. Add garlic, chicken broth, tomatoes, pinto beans, seasonings and pasta for 15- 20 minutes, making sure the pasta is cooked through. Turn off the flame and add cheese, green onions and parsley on top. Serve warm with extra cheese on the side.

If using a crockpot, layer all ingredients except garnish into a slow cooker. Cook over low heat for 6 hours, stirring occasionally as you walk by. Sprinkle garnish ingredients on top 5 minutes before serving.

My favorite pinto beans: https://denosdiner.com/dinner/pinto-beans