08/20/2026
A warm, comforting plate of goodness that makes the whole house feel cozy and welcoming. Baked chili mac and cheese layered with tender macaroni, rich cheddar cheese, seasoned ground beef, kidney beans, and diced peppers, baked with a golden crispy top—it is the ultimate cozy comfort meal to enjoy tonight! 🧀🥩🫘🌾✨
---
# # # 📖 QUICK RECIPE PREVIEW (Serves 6–8)
**🛒 INGREDIENTS**
* 1 lb elbow macaroni
* 1.5 lbs ground beef
* 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
* 1 green bell pepper (diced)
* 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
* 3 tbsp unsalted butter
* 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
* 2.5 cups whole milk
* 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
* 1 tbsp chili powder & 1 tsp cumin
* Fresh cilantro or parsley (chopped, for garnish)
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
**👩🍳 QUICK STEPS**
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook macaroni in boiling salted water for 2 minutes less than package directions; drain.
2. In a skillet, brown ground beef with diced onions, bell peppers, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir in kidney beans and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter, whisk in flour for 1 minute, then gradually add milk. Stir until thickened, remove from heat, and mix in 2 cups of cheddar cheese until smooth. Toss in cooked macaroni.
4. Layer a 9x13-inch baking dish with half the mac and cheese, top with the seasoned beef and bean mixture, then add remaining mac and cheese. Top with remaining 1 cup cheddar cheese and bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. Garnish with fresh cilantro!
---
👇 **WANT THE FULL RECIPE & EXACT MEASUREMENTS?** 👇
Comment **"RECIPE"** below and I’ll send the step-by-step guide straight to your inbox! 📩✨