Chili Mac

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that will warm your heart and fill your tummy, then look no further than this delightful Chili Mac! This recipe brings together the rich flavors of homemade chili with the creamy goodness of macaroni and cheese to create a meal that’s not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a fun potluck with friends, this Chili Mac is sure to be a hit.

What makes this dish even more special is its versatility. You can whip it up for family gatherings or serve it during game day celebrations. Plus, who doesn’t love a one-pot meal that’s as easy to prepare as it is to enjoy?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a hearty meal on the table in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy goodness, making it a perfect choice for picky eaters.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This Chili Mac can be made ahead of time and reheated for an even easier meal.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and flavor, this dish will satisfy everyone at the table.
• Fun to Customize: The recipe is flexible and allows for various ingredient swaps based on your preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that these ingredients are simple, wholesome, and often already in your pantry. Gather them up for a delicious Chili Mac that everyone will love!

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

• 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)

To Garnish

• Fresh parsley

Variations

One of the best parts about this Chili Mac is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Substitute ground turkey or plant-based meat for an alternative protein option.
• Add some veggies: Toss in some corn or spinach for added nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: If you like heat, add some jalapeños or increase the amount of hot sauce.
• Cheese overload: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for a unique twist!

How to Make Chili Mac

Step 1: Cook the Beef Mixture

Start by browning your ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. This step is key because cooking the meat until it’s nicely browned adds depth to the flavor of your chili.

Step 2: Sauté Your Veggies

Once the beef is cooked through, add in the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sautéing these until they’re soft helps release their natural sweetness and enhances their flavor profile.

Step 3: Add Seasonings

Next, sprinkle in your chili seasoning mix along with tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and kidney beans. Stir everything together well; this mixture will become the rich base of your chili mac.

Step 4: Cook the Macaroni

Bring your chili mixture to a simmer before adding uncooked macaroni directly into the pot. This allows the pasta to absorb all those fantastic flavors as it cooks—talk about deliciousness!

Step 5: Create Creamy Cheese Sauce

While your macaroni cooks, melt butter in a separate saucepan. Whisk in flour to create a roux, then gradually add heavy cream and milk while stirring constantly until smooth. Adding mustard powder and cheese gives it that irresistible creamy texture.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Once your macaroni is tender, pour in your creamy cheese sauce into the pot with chili mac. Stir gently until everything is well combined and ooey-gooey cheesy.

Step 7: Serve It Up!

Scoop generous servings into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy every comforting bite of this hearty Chili Mac!

Pro Tips for Making Chili Mac

Making chili mac is a breeze, but a few handy tips can take it from good to absolutely delicious!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh onions, peppers, and garlic will enhance the flavor of your chili mac immensely, making it taste more vibrant and homemade.

• Customize your spice level: Depending on your preference, you can adjust the amount of hot sauce or even add diced jalapeños. This way, you can tailor the dish to suit your family’s taste buds.

• Cook pasta al dente: Since the macaroni will continue cooking in the chili, it’s best to undercook it slightly so it maintains its perfect texture and doesn’t become mushy.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your chili mac to sit for about 5-10 minutes after cooking helps all the flavors meld together beautifully, resulting in a more harmonious dish.

• Experiment with cheese types: While cheddar is classic, mixing in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack can create a unique flavor profile that adds depth to your meal.

How to Serve Chili Mac

Chili mac is not only hearty and satisfying but also visually appealing. Presenting this dish with thoughtful garnishes and sides can turn a simple meal into a delightful feast!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and brightness to each serving.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop on top adds creaminess and balances the spiciness of the chili.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: This buttery, garlicky bread complements the richness of chili mac perfectly and is great for scooping up those last bites.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty main dish.
• Cornbread: Sweet or savory cornbread pairs beautifully with chili dishes, adding a comforting touch that’s hard to resist.
• Steamed broccoli or green beans: These veggies not only provide color but also nutrient balance to your meal while keeping things light.

Enjoy this comforting bowl of goodness with your loved ones! Chili mac truly brings everyone together around the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chili Mac and Cheese is perfect for meal prep, making it a great choice for busy days or when you’re planning ahead for family gatherings. You can easily store it for later or even freeze portions for future meals!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the Chili Mac to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label your containers with the date so you can keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Portion the Chili Mac into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of containers, as the dish may expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• To avoid freezer burn, wrap containers in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a microwave-safe bowl, adding a splash of milk or cream to keep it creamy.
• Heat on medium power in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through (about 4-6 minutes).
• Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious Chili Mac!

Can I make Chili Mac ahead of time?

Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prep. You can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to enjoy it.

How do I ensure my Chili Mac stays creamy?

To keep your Chili Mac creamy after reheating, add a little milk or cream while warming it up. This will help restore its texture and flavor.

Can I use other types of pasta for Chili Mac?

Yes! While macaroni is traditional, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like shells or penne. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed.

What goes well with Chili Mac?

Chili Mac pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or cornbread. It also makes an excellent dish for potlucks and game day gatherings!

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Definitely! The comforting flavors and cheesy goodness make Chili Mac a hit with picky eaters. It’s an easy way to sneak in some veggies too!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this hearty and comforting Chili Mac as much as I do! It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or just when you’re craving something warm and delicious. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite toppings or sides. Happy cooking!