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Hearty Dutch Oven Campfire Chili Mac Recipe with 3 Cheeses

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A simple, comforting, and hearty chili mac cooked in a Dutch oven over a campfire, featuring a blend of three cheeses and smoky chili flavors. Perfect for camping and feeding a crowd with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (85/15 lean-to-fat ratio preferred)
  • 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni (about 200 g)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, fire-roasted if possible
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 cups beef broth (homemade or low-sodium store-bought)
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (smoky preferred)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (113 g)
  • 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (56 g)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (25 g)

Instructions

  1. Prepare your campfire or charcoal grill to create a medium bed of coals (about 350°F/175°C equivalent) with steady, even heat.
  2. Place the Dutch oven over the coals and brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until no pink remains, about 7-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if desired.
  3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef. Stir frequently and cook for 4-5 minutes until onions are translucent and fragrant.
  4. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  5. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the Dutch oven and cook for about 10 minutes to meld flavors.
  6. Add the elbow macaroni, ensuring it is submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until pasta is tender but not mushy.
  7. Remove the lid and sprinkle the three cheese blend evenly over the chili mac. Stir gently until cheese melts into a creamy sauce, about 2-3 minutes. Add extra cheddar if desired.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Let sit off the heat for a few minutes to thicken slightly before serving.

Notes

Manage heat carefully by using coals instead of open flames to avoid burning. Stir gently every 5 minutes to prevent pasta from sticking. Pre-measure spices and cheese for efficiency. Use al dente pasta to avoid mushiness. If chili mac is too thick, add broth or water; if too thin, cook uncovered a bit longer to reduce.

Nutrition

Keywords: campfire recipe, chili mac, Dutch oven, camping meal, three cheese chili mac, easy camping dinner, hearty pasta, outdoor cooking

Find it online: https://sweetstirring.com/hearty-dutch-oven-campfire-chili-mac-recipe-with-3-cheeses-easy-perfect-meal/