Chili Mac

This Chili Mac recipe combines hearty homemade chili with creamy macaroni and cheese, creating a comforting dish perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a potluck, cheering for your favorite team on game day, or simply looking for an easy family dinner, this meal mashup has something for everyone. With its robust flavors and satisfying textures, Chili Mac is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 60 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its rich flavors, it’s a guaranteed hit at gatherings and parties.
• Versatile: You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or spices to suit your taste.
• Comfort Food: The combination of chili and mac and cheese delivers a warm, cozy vibe that everyone loves.
• Budget-Friendly: Utilizing ground beef and pantry staples makes this recipe economical without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delightful Chili Mac, you’ll need some essential tools that will help streamline the cooking process. Having the right equipment can make all the difference in achieving a delicious outcome.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking dish

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Perfect for cooking the macaroni and combining all ingredients seamlessly.
• Skillet: Ideal for browning the ground beef and sautéing onions and peppers to enhance their flavors.

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious Chili Mac, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chili Mixture

• 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 substitute 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: Prepare the Pasta

• In a large pot, bring water to a boil.
• Add macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
• Drain pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Meat Mixture

• In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until cooked through.
• Add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic; sauté until vegetables are tender.

Step 3: Add Flavor Components

• Stir in chili seasoning mix, tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and kidney beans.
• Let simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

• In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
• Whisk in flour to create a roux; cook for about 2 minutes until golden.
• Gradually add heavy cream and milk while whisking continuously until smooth.
• Stir in mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and hot sauce.

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

• Mix cooked macaroni into the meat mixture until well combined.
• Pour cheese sauce over the top; stir gently to incorporate all ingredients evenly.

Step 6: Bake the Chili Mac

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Transfer mixture into a baking dish; top with additional cheddar cheese if desired.
• Bake for about 20 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 7: Serve

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

How to Serve Chili Mac

Chili Mac is a hearty dish that combines the warmth of chili with the comfort of macaroni and cheese. It’s perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. Here are some serving ideas to elevate your Chili Mac experience.

With a Fresh Salad

• A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of Chili Mac.

Topped with Jalapeños

• Add sliced jalapeños for an extra kick. This spicy touch enhances the flavors and gives it a nice crunch.

Accompanied by Garlic Bread

• Serve your Chili Mac with warm garlic bread. The buttery, garlicky flavor complements the chili nicely.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro on top for a burst of color and freshness. It adds a vibrant touch to your plate.

With Avocado Slices

• Creamy avocado slices can provide a rich texture. They also add healthy fats that make the meal even more satisfying.

Served in Individual Bowls

• For a fun presentation, serve Chili Mac in individual bowls. This makes it easy for guests to dig in and enjoy their portion.

How to Perfect Chili Mac

Perfecting your Chili Mac involves attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions for an incredible dish every time.

• Use quality ingredients: Fresh vegetables and good-quality ground beef make all the difference in flavor.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you cook, adding more spices or salt as needed for depth.
• Cook pasta al dente: This ensures your macaroni holds its shape and doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the chili.
• Let it rest: Allowing the Chili Mac to sit for a few minutes before serving helps flavors meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with cheese: Try different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for unique flavors.
• Add toppings: Get creative with toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, or crumbled tortilla chips for added texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Chili Mac

Pairing side dishes with Chili Mac can enhance your meal. Here are some great options that complement this delicious recipe.

1. Cornbread: A sweet cornbread pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of Chili Mac. Serve warm for best results.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious element and bright color to your plate.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and freshness that balances out the rich dish.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables offer great texture and additional nutrients alongside your meal.
5. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with a light dressing can cleanse the palate between bites.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are satisfying and make for a fun side that everyone loves.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Chili Mac is a delicious dish, but there are common mistakes that can affect its flavor and texture. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Bold seasoning – Skipping or under-seasoning can lead to bland Chili Mac. Make sure to taste and adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process.
• Bold overcooking pasta – Cooking macaroni too long makes it mushy. Follow package instructions for al dente pasta and remember it will cook further in the sauce.
• Bold ignoring chili consistency – If your chili is too thick, it can dry out during baking. Add extra broth or water to achieve a creamy consistency before mixing.
• Bold not using enough cheese – Cheese is crucial for creaminess. Don’t skimp on the cheddar; a generous amount enhances flavor and texture.
• Bold skipping garnishes – Garnishes like fresh parsley add freshness and color. Don’t skip this step for a beautiful presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chili Mac

• Place cooled Chili Mac in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chili Mac

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Warm on low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of chicken broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Curious about more details regarding Chili Mac? Here are some frequently asked questions.

What is Chili Mac?

Chili Mac is a comforting dish that combines hearty chili with creamy macaroni and cheese, offering both flavors in every bite.

Can I customize my Chili Mac?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like corn or zucchini, swap out ground beef for turkey or lamb, or use different types of cheese for unique flavors.

How do I make it vegetarian?

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

Is Chili Mac suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Chili Mac stores well and is perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and reheat portions throughout the week.

Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes! Feel free to substitute regular macaroni with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version of this dish.

Final Thoughts

This Chili Mac recipe offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures that makes it perfect for any occasion—from family dinners to game day gatherings. Enjoy customizing it with your favorite ingredients, ensuring everyone at the table will love every bite!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Chili Mac

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Chili Mac is the ultimate comfort food that brings together the heartiness of chili and the creamy goodness of macaroni and cheese. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, offering a delightful blend of flavors that everyone will love. With tender ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and a rich cheese sauce, this baked Chili Mac is not only satisfying but also budget-friendly. You can easily customize it to suit your taste by adding your favorite spices or veggies. Serve it alongside fresh salads or garlic bread for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
• 1 small onion (diced)
• ½ cup bell pepper (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (diced)
• 8 oz tomato sauce
• 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes (undrained)
• 2 cups macaroni (uncooked)
• 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1.25 oz packet chili seasoning mix
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 cup milk
• ½ teaspoon mustard powder
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• ½ teaspoon hot sauce
• Fresh parsley (to garnish)

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, boil water and cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, brown ground beef. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic; sauté until tender.
3. Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and chili seasoning; simmer for about 10 minutes.
4. In a separate saucepan, make the cheese sauce by melting butter and whisking in flour, then adding heavy cream and milk gradually until smooth. Mix in mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and hot sauce.
5. Combine macaroni with meat mixture, pour cheese sauce over it, and stir gently.
6. Transfer to a baking dish and top with extra cheese if desired. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until bubbly.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 27g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 75mg