Chili Mac

This Chili Mac recipe combines hearty homemade chili with creamy macaroni and cheese, creating an irresistible dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a potluck, planning game day snacks, or simply looking for a cozy family dinner, this dish stands out with its rich flavors and comforting textures. It’s an easy-to-make meal that will leave you feeling satisfied and happy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this meal fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Flavorful Fusion: The combination of chili and mac and cheese offers a unique taste that everyone will love.
• Family-Friendly: This dish caters to all ages, making it a hit even with picky eaters.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main course or as a side; it works perfectly in any setting.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it in advance for easy reheating later.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Chili Mac, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Baking dish (for serving)

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the macaroni and mixing all ingredients together without overflow.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing vegetables and browning the ground beef evenly.
• Measuring cups: Ensure accurate ingredient amounts for perfect consistency in your dish.

Ingredients

For the Chili

• 1 lbs. ground beef (80% lean)
• 1 small onion (diced)
• ½ cup bell pepper (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (diced)
• 1.25 oz. packet chili seasoning mix (see notes for homemade seasoning)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 8 oz. tomato sauce
• 14.5 oz. can diced tomatoes (undrained)
• ½ cup chicken broth (can sub beef broth)
• 1 15 oz. can kidney beans, drained

For the Macaroni and Cheese

• 2 cups macaroni (uncooked)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 cup milk
• ½ teaspoon mustard powder
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon each: salt/pepper
• ½ teaspoon hot sauce
• 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
• Fresh Parsley (to garnish)

How to Make Chili Mac

Step 1: Cook the Beef and Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with your spatula. Once cooked, drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Add Flavorful Ingredients

Stir in the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté them until they are soft, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Mix in Seasonings

Add the chili seasoning mix, tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juice, chicken broth, and kidney beans to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Cook the Macaroni

In a separate large pot, bring water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain when finished.

Step 5: Prepare Cheese Sauce

In another pan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth; cook for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in heavy cream and milk until thickened. Add mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and hot sauce.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Mix cooked macaroni into the beef chili mixture in the skillet. Pour cheese sauce over it all and stir well until everything is combined and heated through.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm. Enjoy your hearty Chili Mac!

How to Serve Chili Mac

Chili Mac is a versatile dish that can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy family dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Casual Bowl

• Serve Chili Mac in individual bowls topped with extra cheese and fresh parsley for a comforting experience.

Family Style

• Place the Chili Mac in a large serving dish, allowing guests to help themselves. This encourages sharing and creates a warm atmosphere.

Game Day Delight

• Serve Chili Mac in small cups or bowls as finger food during game day. Pair with napkins for easy eating while cheering on your favorite team.

Leftover Makeover

• Transform leftovers into baked Chili Mac by topping it with cheese and baking until bubbly. This gives a new twist to your original meal.

How to Perfect Chili Mac

Perfecting your Chili Mac requires attention to detail and some cooking tips to boost flavor and texture.

• Use quality ground beef: Choose 80% lean ground beef for the best balance of flavor and moisture.
• Homemade chili seasoning: Create your own chili seasoning mix for an extra depth of flavor, using spices like cumin, paprika, and cayenne.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook macaroni until al dente before mixing it with the chili; it will continue cooking in the oven.
• Experiment with cheeses: Try different cheese blends for unique flavors. Pepper Jack can add a nice kick!
• Adjust spice levels: Modify the amount of hot sauce based on your heat preference to ensure everyone enjoys it.
• Garnish wisely: Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro not only add color but enhance flavor when sprinkled on top before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Chili Mac

Pairing side dishes with Chili Mac can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Garlic Bread
   A crunchy side that complements the creamy flavors of Chili Mac perfectly.

2. Green Salad
   A light salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and vinaigrette adds freshness to the meal.

3. Cornbread
   Sweet cornbread provides a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the Chili Mac.

4. Steamed Broccoli
   Bright green broccoli adds nutrition and color while balancing out the richness of the dish.

5. Coleslaw
   This crunchy side brings texture and a tangy flavor that cuts through the creaminess of the mac and cheese.

6. Baked Potatoes
   Simple baked potatoes allow guests to customize their toppings, making them an interactive side option.

7. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide sweetness and depth alongside your hearty main dish.

8. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate after enjoying a rich bowl of Chili Mac.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Chili Mac even more delicious. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to use enough spices can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
• Not cooking the pasta properly: Overcooked or undercooked macaroni can ruin the texture. Cook it al dente, as it will continue cooking in the chili.
• Using low-quality cheese: Cheap cheese can affect creaminess and flavor. Opt for good-quality cheddar for the best results.
• Ignoring the rest period: Cutting into your Chili Mac too soon can result in a messy serving. Let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving.
• Not incorporating enough veggies: Skimping on vegetables can make your dish less nutritious. Add extra bell peppers or beans for added flavor and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chili Mac in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chili Mac

• Freeze Chili Mac in a freezer-safe container.
• It stays good for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Chili Mac

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20-25 minutes, until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1 minute, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if necessary to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Chili Mac:

What is Chili Mac?

Chili Mac is a delicious combination of macaroni and cheese mixed with hearty chili, creating a comforting meal.

Can I customize my Chili Mac?

Absolutely! You can add your favorite vegetables or swap out meats according to your preference.

How do I make Chili Mac vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of Chili Mac, simply replace ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Is Chili Mac suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Chili Mac is great for meal prep as it freezes well and reheats easily, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

How spicy is this Chili Mac recipe?

The spiciness can be adjusted by modifying the amount of hot sauce used. Start with less if you’re sensitive to spice!

Final Thoughts

Chili Mac is not only satisfying but also highly versatile. You can tailor it to suit your taste buds by adding different ingredients or adjusting spice levels. Whether it’s for dinner on a busy weeknight or as a potluck dish, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Give it a try and enjoy this comforting meal that combines two favorites!

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Chili Mac

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Chili Mac is the ultimate comfort food, blending hearty homemade chili with creamy macaroni and cheese for an unforgettable dish. Perfect for gatherings, game days, or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is designed to please even the pickiest eaters. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, Chili Mac is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile—serve it as a main course or side dish! This easy-to-make meal can be prepped in advance, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
• 1 small onion (diced)
• ½ cup bell pepper (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (diced)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 8 oz tomato sauce
• 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes (undrained)
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 15 oz. can kidney beans, drained
• 2 cups macaroni (uncooked)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 cup milk
• ½ teaspoon mustard powder
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon each: salt/pepper
• ½ teaspoon hot sauce
• 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
• Fresh Parsley (to garnish)

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Drain excess fat.
2. Add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic; sauté until soft.
3. Stir in tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and kidney beans.
4. In a separate pot, cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
5. For the cheese sauce, melt butter in another pan and whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually add heavy cream and milk until thickened; stir in seasonings.
6. Combine cooked macaroni with beef mixture in the skillet and pour cheese sauce over it all. Mix well.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

• Author: Juniper
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 485
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Customize your Chili Mac by adding favorite vegetables or adjusting spice levels to taste. For a vegetarian version, swap ground beef for lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth.