Chili Mac Recipe
Chili Mac is the perfect blend of two classic comfort foods—hearty chili and creamy macaroni and cheese. This dish is not only satisfying and filling, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to please a crowd, this Chili Mac recipe will quickly become a favorite.
Ingredients for the Ultimate Chili Mac
For the Chili:
- 1 lb Ground Beef: Provides the base for a hearty, meaty chili.
- 1 Onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a robust, savory taste.
- 1 Green Bell Pepper, diced: Contributes a fresh, slightly sweet flavor.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) Diced Tomatoes: Adds acidity and a juicy texture to the chili.
- 1 can (15 oz) Kidney Beans, drained and rinsed: Adds creaminess and substance.
- 1 can (8 oz) Tomato Sauce: Thickens the chili and enhances the tomato flavor.
- 2 tablespoons Chili Powder: Gives the chili its classic, spicy flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin: Adds warmth and earthiness.
- 1 teaspoon Paprika: Provides a subtle sweetness and color.
- 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper: Adds heat; adjust to your spice tolerance.
- Salt and Pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
For the Macaroni:
- 8 oz Elbow Macaroni: The perfect pasta shape to hold the chili and cheese.
- 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a rich, creamy texture.
- 1/2 cup Milk: Helps to create a smooth, creamy cheese sauce.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chili Mac
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chili Base
In a large skillet or pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat from the pan.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Sauté the vegetables until they are softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Tomatoes and Beans
Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and tomato sauce. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 5: Season the Chili
Add the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices throughout the chili mixture.
Step 6: Simmer the Chili
Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent the chili from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 7: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
While the chili is simmering, prepare the cheese sauce. In a separate pot, combine the shredded cheddar cheese and milk over low heat. Stir constantly until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 8: Combine the Chili and Macaroni
Once the chili has finished simmering, add the cooked macaroni to the pot. Stir well to ensure the pasta is fully coated with the chili.
Step 9: Add the Cheese Sauce
Pour the cheese sauce over the chili and macaroni mixture. Stir until everything is well combined and the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the dish.
Step 10: Serve Hot
Spoon the Chili Mac into bowls and serve hot. For an extra touch, top with additional shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of chopped green onions.
Serving Suggestions for Chili Mac
With a Side Salad
Pair Chili Mac with a crisp, fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette works perfectly.
With Cornbread
Serve Chili Mac alongside a slice of warm cornbread for a classic Southern-inspired meal. The sweetness of the cornbread complements the savory, spicy flavors of the chili.
As a Potluck Dish
Chili Mac is an ideal dish for potlucks and gatherings. It’s easy to make in large quantities, and it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Tips for the Perfect Chili Mac
Use Quality Cheese
For the best flavor and texture, use high-quality cheddar cheese. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly.
Adjust the Spice Level
Feel free to adjust the spice level to your taste. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper. For those who like it hot, add extra cayenne or a diced jalapeño.
Make It Ahead of Time
Chili Mac can be made ahead of time and reheated just before serving. It also freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep.
Nutritional Benefits of Chili Mac
Protein-Packed
With ground beef and kidney beans, Chili Mac is a great source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues.
Rich in Fiber
The kidney beans and whole grain macaroni (if you choose to use it) provide a good amount of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight.
Calcium-Rich
The cheddar cheese and milk in the cheese sauce are excellent sources of calcium, which is important for strong bones and teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use other types of pasta like penne, rotini, or shells. Just make sure to cook it al dente, so it doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the chili.
Q2: Can I make Chili Mac vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the ground beef and add more beans or a meat substitute like tofu crumbles or plant-based ground meat.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Q4: Can I freeze Chili Mac?
Yes, Chili Mac freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q5: What other toppings can I add?
You can add a variety of toppings to Chili Mac, such as diced tomatoes, avocado slices, crushed tortilla chips, or even a fried egg for a heartier meal.
Conclusion
Chili Mac is a hearty, comforting dish that combines the best of both worlds—savory chili and creamy macaroni and cheese. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this dish is sure to impress. So, grab your ingredients and get cooking—your taste buds will thank you!
Chili Mac
Chili Mac is the perfect blend of two classic comfort foods—hearty chili and creamy macaroni and cheese. This dish is not only satisfying and filling, but it's also incredibly easy to make. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to please a crowd, this Chili Mac recipe will quickly become a favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 medium sweet onion , diced small
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- salt and pepper
- 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups Traditional or Marinara pasta sauce
- 10 ounce can mild diced tomatoes with mild green chilis
- 16 ounce can mild chili beans (do not drain or rinse)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 1/2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni pasta
- 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high. Add onion, garlic, and beef; cook until browned, breaking up into crumbles, stirring frequently, about 3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Drain excess fat.
Stir in chicken broth, pasta sauce, diced tomatoes with mild green chilis, beans, chili powder, and cumin. Season with a bit more salt and pepper, to taste.
Bring to a boil and stir in pasta; cover, reduce heat to a simmer and cook until pasta is al dente, about 14 minutes, stirring a couple times near the end to prevent sticking.
Remove from heat. Stir in the cheese and parsley.
Serve immediately, garnished with additional cheese and parsley, if desired.
Nutrition Information:
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 400