Cheesy Chili Mac Muffin Tins

Comfort food holds a special place in our hearts, evoking a sense of warmth, nostalgia, and satisfaction. Whether it's a rainy day or a gathering with friends and family, nothing beats the allure of dishes that are not only delicious but also easy to prepare. One such delightful dish is the Cheesy Chili Mac Muffin Tins, a unique twist on the classic chili mac that combines the creamy goodness of macaroni and cheese with the hearty flavors of chili in a fun, individualized format. This recipe encapsulates the essence of comfort food while offering a modern, convenient approach that’s perfect for meal prep or entertaining.

Discover the joy of cooking with Cheesy Chili Mac Muffin Tins, a delicious twist on classic comfort food. This recipe combines creamy macaroni and hearty chili into fun, individual servings that are perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. Easy to prepare and customizable, these muffin-sized delights pack rich flavors and are ideal for meal prep. Whether you're cozying up on a rainy day or hosting friends, these muffins are sure to impress everyone at the table!

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Ingredients

2 cups elbow macaroni

1 can (15 oz) chili (choose with or without beans based on your preference)

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup diced tomatoes (can be fresh or canned)

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and black pepper to taste

Cooking spray or muffin liners for easy release

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a standard muffin tin by lightly spraying it with cooking spray or lining each cup with muffin liners to ensure easy removal later.

Cook the Macaroni: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rapid boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically 7-8 minutes. Once cooked, drain the macaroni in a colander and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet set over medium heat, pour in the olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté the mixture for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent.

Combine Chili Mixture: Stir the canned chili and diced tomatoes into the skillet with the sautéed onions and garlic. Season with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Allow this mixture to simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together beautifully.

Mix Pasta and Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained macaroni with the chili mixture you just prepared. Add half of the cheddar cheese and half of the mozzarella cheese, mixing thoroughly until every piece of macaroni is evenly coated.

Fill Muffin Tins: Using a spoon, carefully fill each muffin cup with the cheesy chili mac mixture, packing it in gently. Ensure each cup is filled to the brim for a generous serving.

Top with Cheese: Evenly sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top of each filled muffin cup, ensuring that each one has a cheesy crown.

Bake: Transfer the muffin tin to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The muffins are ready when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and has developed a lovely golden color.

Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes. To serve, gently run a fork around the edges of each muffin and lift them out carefully. Enjoy these savory bites warm for the best experience!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 12 muffins

- Presentation Tips: Place the cheesy chili mac muffins on a vibrant serving platter. You can garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or a dollop of sour cream for an added touch of elegance.