Chili Mac

This Chili Mac recipe is the perfect blend of hearty homemade chili and creamy macaroni and cheese. Ideal for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to lively potlucks or game day gatherings, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, it’s a meal mashup that stands out from the crowd.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious Chili Mac in no time.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of spices and rich ingredients creates a comforting dish that bursts with flavor.
• Versatile: Perfect as a main course, side dish, or even leftovers for lunch the next day.
• Family Friendly: Kids love it! It’s a great way to get picky eaters to enjoy beans and veggies.
• Budget-Friendly: Using affordable ingredients makes this meal easy on your wallet while still being hearty.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling macaroni
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Serving dish

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Essential for cooking the ground beef and combining all the flavors in one pan.
• Pot for boiling macaroni: A dedicated pot ensures your pasta cooks evenly without interference from other ingredients.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Helps stir without scratching your cookware, ensuring even cooking.

Ingredients

To make this delicious 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)

Garnish

• Fresh Parsley (to garnish)

How to Make Chili Mac

Step 1: Cook the Beef and Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary. Add diced onions, bell peppers, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until softened.

Step 2: Add Chili Ingredients

Stir in chili seasoning mix, tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juice, chicken broth, and kidney beans. Bring to a simmer and let cook for about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Boil Macaroni

While the chili simmers, bring water to a boil in a separate pot. Add macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Make Cheese Sauce

In another saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour until smooth; cook for about 1 minute. Gradually add heavy cream and milk while whisking continuously until thickened.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, hot sauce, and cheddar cheese to the cheese sauce; stir until melted and smooth. Mix together with the cooked chili base and macaroni until well combined.

Step 6: Serve

Spoon Chili Mac into bowls or a serving dish, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy!

This Chili Mac recipe is not only easy but also a delightful twist on two classic comfort foods that everyone will love!

How to Serve Chili Mac

Chili Mac is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or a casual gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Classic Presentation

• Serve in individual bowls for a cozy, comforting feel.
• Top with extra cheddar cheese and fresh parsley for added flavor and color.

With a Side Salad

• Pair with a crisp green salad to balance out the richness of the chili mac.
• A simple vinaigrette adds brightness and freshness.

Topped with Avocado

• Add sliced avocado on top for creaminess and healthy fats.
• This addition enhances both texture and taste.

As a Nacho Dish

• Use chili mac as a base for nachos; just layer tortilla chips, chili mac, and toppings.
• Perfect for game day or movie night!

How to Perfect Chili Mac

To make your Chili Mac truly exceptional, follow these handy tips. Each step can enhance the flavors and texture of this comforting dish.

• Choose Quality Meat: Use lean ground beef to keep it flavorful without excess grease. This ensures your chili mac stays hearty but not heavy.

• Mix Spices Well: Ensure that the chili seasoning mix is evenly distributed throughout the meat. This prevents any bland bites and gives consistent flavor.

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Prepare macaroni just until al dente before mixing it in. This ensures the pasta doesn’t become mushy when baked.

• Add Extra Cheese: For an even cheesier experience, sprinkle more cheese on top before baking. It creates a deliciously gooey topping that everyone loves.

Best Side Dishes for Chili Mac

Chili Mac pairs wonderfully with various sides that complement its rich flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your chili mac.

2. Coleslaw
   The crunchiness of coleslaw adds texture and a refreshing bite that balances the dish’s richness.

3. Cornbread
   Sweet cornbread pairs beautifully with spicy chili mac, offering a delightful contrast of flavors.

4. Steamed Vegetables
   Broccoli or green beans provide color and nutrition; lightly steaming keeps them crisp and bright.

5. Potato Wedges
   Crispy potato wedges are fun to eat alongside chili mac, adding a satisfying crunch to your meal.

6. Cucumber Salad
   A light cucumber salad offers coolness that complements the warmth of chili mac, making each bite refreshing.

7. Fruit Salad
   Fresh fruit salad adds sweetness and acidity, balancing out the savory elements of your main dish.

8. Pickles
   Tangy pickles can cut through the richness of chili mac, providing an excellent flavor contrast while adding zest.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chili Mac, it’s easy to stumble into some common pitfalls. Here are mistakes to avoid for a perfect dish.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to add enough chili seasoning can make your dish bland. Always taste and adjust.

• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the macaroni too long can lead to mushy texture. Aim for al dente before mixing it with the chili.

• Not draining beans: If you forget to drain kidney beans, your Chili Mac could become watery. Always drain and rinse canned beans.

• Ignoring cheese quality: Using low-quality cheese can affect flavor. Choose a good cheddar for a rich, creamy experience.

• Neglecting garnish: Skipping fresh parsley or other garnishes can make the dish less appealing. A sprinkle of herbs adds color and freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chili Mac

• Freeze in portions for easy meals later.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it can last up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Chili Mac

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish and cover with foil; heat until warmed through.

• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power, stirring every minute until hot.

• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of milk if needed for moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chili Mac:

What is Chili Mac?

Chili Mac is a delicious fusion of chili and macaroni and cheese, creating a hearty meal that’s easy to prepare.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative that works well in this Chili Mac recipe.

How spicy is this Chili Mac?

The spice level depends on the chili seasoning used. Adjust according to your preference, or add extra hot sauce for more heat!

Can I customize my Chili Mac?

Yes! Add vegetables like corn or zucchini or swap out cheeses for different flavors in your Chili Mac.

How long does it take to prepare?

This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and 45 minutes to cook, totaling around an hour for a delicious meal!

Final Thoughts

This Chili Mac recipe combines comfort food favorites into one satisfying dish. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it invites customization based on your tastes. Try adding extra toppings or adjusting spices for your ideal version!