One Pot Chili Mac & Cheese

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef, or ground turkey
  • 1 yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 poblano pepper, seeded and chopped
  • 1 Tablespoon chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 can (28 ounces) crushed fire-roasted tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies
  • salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2-3 cups chicken or beef broth, low sodium
  • 1 box (16 ounces) of penne or elbow pasta
  • 2 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
  • 2 cups shredded melty cheese (Colby, cheddar, pepper jack)
  • green onions and cilantro, for serving, optional

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 425° F. In a large pot set over medium-high heat, add the meat and onion. Season with salt and pepper. Brown the meat all over, breaking up the meat as you go.
  2. Add the poblanos, chili powder, garlic powder, paprika. Cook for 5 minutes, until fragrant. Mix in the tomatoes, tomato paste, and diced chilies. Pour over the broth. Add 2 cups water and season with salt.
  3. Add the pasta. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Simmer for 10 minutes until the pasta is al dente, stirring often. Stir in the hot sauce, cream cheese, and 1/2 the cheese. Cook another few minutes until very creamy. Remove from the heat and top with remaining cheese. Bake for 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted.
  4. Divide the pasta and sauce among bowls and top with green onions and cilantro.

Source: halfbakedharvest.com