Green Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   • Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add extra virgin olive oil, swirling to coat the bottom.
2. Cook the Aromatics:
   • Add diced sweet onion to the skillet, cooking until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, around 1 minute.
3. Brown the Beef:
   • Increase heat to medium-high and add lean ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Combine the Flavors:
   • Stir in low-sodium chicken broth, Ragu® Old World Style® Traditional Pasta Sauce, diced tomatoes with green chili peppers, and undrained mild chili beans. Season with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer:
   • Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
6. Cook the Macaroni:
   • In a separate pot, cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain well.
7. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
   • Add cooked macaroni to the skillet with the beef and sauce mixture, stirring to ensure pasta is well-coated and ingredients are evenly distributed.
8. Add Cheese:
   • Remove skillet from heat and stir in shredded Cheddar cheese until melted and mixture is creamy.
9. Garnish and Serve:
   • Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top. Serve hot and relish in the comforting, zesty flavors of your Green Chili Mac and Cheese.

Serving Suggestions:

• Top with crispy breadcrumbs or crushed tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch.
• Add cooked and crumbled bacon for an extra layer of flavor.
• Serve as a side dish with grilled chicken or beef for a complete meal.

Tips:

• Adjust spiciness by adding more or less cayenne pepper to suit your taste.
• Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavor profiles.
• For added creaminess, consider incorporating a dollop of sour cream into the cheese sauce.

Creamy Green Chili Mac and Cheese elevates the beloved classic with a spicy and zesty twist. Whether as a side dish or the main event, this fusion of flavors is guaranteed to captivate at your next gathering. So, ignite your kitchen with warmth and relish in the delightful comfort of this Southwestern-inspired mac and cheese.

Credit: easyinstantrecipes