Classic, cold-weather comfort food, this chunky combination of tender beans, ground beef, tomatoes and macaroni will appeal to all ages.

Chili Macaroni
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes

1/3 cup uncooked elbow macaroni

1/3 pound lean ground beef

1/4 cup chopped onion

1 cup canned diced tomatoes

3/4 cup tomato juice

3/4 cup canned kidney beans, rinsed and drained

1 small garlic clove, minced

3/4 teaspoon chili powder

1/8 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon dried oregano

1/8 teaspoon pepper

2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish

Cook macaroni according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook beef and onion over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain.

Add the tomatoes, tomato juice, beans, garlic, chili powder, salt, oregano and pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 10 minutes. Drain macaroni; add to beef mixture. Stir in pickle relish; heat through.

Makes 2 servings.

Nutritional information per serving: 314 calories; 6 g fat (2 g saturated); 37 mg cholesterol; 974 mg sodium; 42 g carbohydrate; 8 g fiber; 24 g protein.

Maurice J. Paulk ,
Wood River