Chili Mac

This Chili Mac recipe is a delightful combination of hearty homemade chili and creamy macaroni and cheese. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a festive potluck, or game day gatherings, this dish stands out with its rich flavors and comforting textures. It’s a meal mashup that will satisfy both your hunger and your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Hearty and Satisfying: This Chili Mac is filling enough to please even the heartiest of appetites.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course, it pairs well with various sides or can be enjoyed on its own.
• Kid-Friendly Flavor: The creamy cheese and savory chili make it a hit with kids and picky eaters alike.
• Great for Leftovers: Makes excellent leftovers that can be easily reheated for lunch or dinner.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to make the preparation smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Stirring spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Cheese grater

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking both the chili and pasta together without making a mess.
• Stirring spoon: Helps mix all ingredients thoroughly for an even flavor throughout the dish.
• Cheese grater: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese, enhancing the overall taste.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

To create this mouthwatering Chili Mac, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chili Base

• 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)

For the Cheese Sauce

• 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

How to Make Chili Mac

Step 1: Cook the Meat Mixture

1. In a large pot over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
2. Add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pot. Sauté until vegetables are tender.

Step 2: Add Chili Ingredients

1. Stir in the chili seasoning mix, tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and kidney beans.
2. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 15 minutes to blend flavors.

Step 3: Cook the Macaroni

1. While the chili simmers, cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain macaroni and set aside.

Step 4: Make Cheese Sauce

1. In another saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.
2. Whisk in flour to form a roux; cook for about 1 minute.
3. Gradually whisk in heavy cream and milk until smooth.
4. Add mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, hot sauce, and shredded cheddar cheese; stir until melted.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Mix cooked macaroni into the chili mixture until well combined.
2. Pour cheese sauce over the mixture; stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm! Enjoy your comforting bowl of Chili Mac!

How to Serve Chili Mac

Chili Mac is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you are hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Toppings

• Shredded Cheese: Sprinkle extra cheddar cheese on top for a melty finish.
• Sour Cream: Add a dollop of sour cream to balance the spice and enhance creaminess.
• Chopped Green Onions: Fresh green onions add a nice crunch and flavor contrast.
• Jalapeños: For those who like heat, sliced jalapeños can spice things up.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs well with the savory flavors of Chili Mac.
• Garden Salad: A light salad with fresh vegetables provides a refreshing contrast.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the creamy texture perfectly.

Meal Prep Containers

• Individual Portions: Store leftovers in single-serving containers for easy meals throughout the week.
• Family Style Serving: Present it in a large dish for guests to serve themselves at gatherings.

How to Perfect Chili Mac

To achieve the best Chili Mac, follow these expert tips that will enhance both flavor and texture.

• Bold Seasoning: Adjust chili seasoning to taste. If you prefer more heat, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
• Quality Cheese: Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged varieties for better melting and flavor.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: This helps prevent mushy pasta when mixed with the chili sauce.
• Customize Beans: Feel free to mix different beans, such as black beans or pinto beans, for added texture and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Chili Mac

Pairing side dishes with Chili Mac can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement its flavors.

1. Garlic Bread: A crunchy side that soaks up any leftover sauce beautifully.
2. Coleslaw: Fresh coleslaw adds crunch and balances the rich flavors of Chili Mac.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a colorful and healthy addition to your plate.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a delightful sweetness that contrasts nicely with the chili spices.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges make for a hearty side that pairs well with this dish.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites of spicy Chili Mac.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chili Mac can be easy, but there are common pitfalls to watch for.

• Bold seasoning choices: Skipping the chili seasoning mix can lead to bland flavors. Always ensure to use a good quality seasoning or make your own for the best outcome.

• Bold pasta cooking time: Overcooking or undercooking the macaroni will affect the dish’s texture. Cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the chili.

• Bold ingredient substitutions: Replacing key ingredients without considering their roles may alter taste and consistency. Stick to recommended substitutes, like beef broth instead of chicken broth.

• Bold cheese melting technique: Adding cheese too quickly or at high heat can cause it to become grainy. Gradually incorporate cheese at low heat for a smooth, creamy finish.

• Bold neglecting garnish: Forgetting to add fresh parsley or other garnishes may make your dish less appealing. A simple garnish elevates presentation and flavor.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Leftovers can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Chili Mac

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Chili Mac

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of milk or broth, reheat on medium heat while stirring until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chili Mac.

What is Chili Mac?

Chili Mac is a comforting dish that combines hearty chili with creamy macaroni and cheese, creating a satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.

How can I customize my Chili Mac?

You can add vegetables like corn or zucchini, change up the protein with ground turkey, or use different types of cheese for unique flavors.

Can I make Chili Mac ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freeze it for later use. Just reheat before serving!

What goes well with Chili Mac?

Chili Mac pairs well with cornbread, side salads, or tortilla chips for added crunch and flavor variety.

Final Thoughts

This Chili Mac recipe is not just filling but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Give it a try!