Chili Mac

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms the heart and fills the belly, my Chili Mac is just what you need! This delightful dish combines hearty homemade chili with creamy macaroni and cheese, creating a comforting fusion that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a friendly gathering, this Chili Mac is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can whip it up for family dinners, serve it at potlucks, or even enjoy it while cheering for your favorite team on game day. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it’s hard not to fall in love with this dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this comforting blend of chili and mac and cheese.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance for busy days or freeze leftovers for quick meals later.
• Flavorful Comfort: The combination of spices and creamy cheese makes every bite pure bliss!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Chili Mac is simple and fun! You’ll only need a few wholesome items that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

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 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)

To Garnish

• Fresh Parsley

Now that we’ve got everything lined up, let’s dive into making this delightful Chili Mac!

Variations

One of the best things about Chili Mac is how flexible it is! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
• Add veggies: Toss in some chopped zucchini or spinach to sneak in extra nutrients.
• Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or more hot sauce if you like an extra kick!
• Go dairy-free: Substitute plant-based milk and cheese for a creamy yet dairy-free option.

How to Make Chili Mac

Step 1: Cook the Meat

Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. As the meat cooks, break it apart with a spatula. This step is crucial because it builds flavor right from the start! Once browned, drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pot with the beef. Sauté them until they soften—about 5 minutes—this will enhance their sweetness and flavor profile, making your chili even more delicious!

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Tomatoes

Stir in the chili seasoning mix, tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and kidney beans. Bringing all these ingredients together creates that hearty chili base we know and love!

Step 4: Cook the Macaroni

Once your chili has simmered for about 20 minutes, add in the uncooked macaroni. Stir everything together so that those noodles soak up all that wonderful flavor as they cook.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

In another saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux—this will help thicken our cheese sauce! Gradually add heavy cream and milk while stirring constantly until smooth.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Pour your creamy mixture into the pot with chili and macaroni. Add mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, hot sauce, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is well combined and ooey-gooey!

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Once your Chili Mac is bubbling hot and cheesy, serve it up warm! Garnish with fresh parsley to add a pop of color—and enjoy every comforting bite!

This recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen; I can’t wait for you to try it!

Pro Tips for Making Chili Mac

Making Chili Mac is a breeze, and with these handy tips, you’ll elevate your dish to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh onions, garlic, and bell peppers bring vibrant flavors to your chili mac. They help to enhance the overall taste and aroma of the dish.

• Adjust the spice level: If you like it spicy, feel free to add extra hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper. This allows you to customize the heat according to your family’s preferences.

• Let it rest: After cooking, allow your chili mac to sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and makes for a heartier dish.

• Experiment with cheeses: While cheddar is classic, mixing in some Monterey Jack or pepper jack can add depth and creaminess. Different cheeses create unique flavor profiles that can surprise your taste buds!

• Make it ahead: Chili mac stores well in the refrigerator, making it perfect for meal prep! You can easily reheat leftovers for a quick lunch or dinner during busy weekdays.

How to Serve Chili Mac

Chili Mac is not just a meal; it’s an experience! Presenting it beautifully will make it even more inviting at the dinner table.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: These add a fresh crunch and vibrant color that brightens up the dish.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop on top provides a creamy contrast that balances the spices in the chili mac.
• Shredded cheese: Additional cheese sprinkled on top right before serving adds melty goodness and looks appealing.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: The perfect accompaniment, garlic bread is great for soaking up any leftover chili mac sauce while adding a delicious buttery flavor.
• Simple green salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes offers a refreshing balance to the hearty chili mac.
• Steamed broccoli: This nutritious side adds color and texture while complementing the rich flavors of the dish.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with chili mac, providing a delightful contrast in texture and taste.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Chili Mac will not only satisfy hunger but also impress everyone at your table! Enjoy this comforting meal that brings smiles all around.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chili Mac is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade dish throughout the week. Whether you’re preparing for a busy workweek or planning a gathering, this recipe stores beautifully!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the Chili Mac to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For best results, cover with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent drying out.

Freezing

• Portion the Chili Mac into individual servings and place them in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label each container with the date and contents for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Heat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of milk if needed for creaminess.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions that might help you as you prepare your Chili Mac.

Can I make Chili Mac ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish is great for making ahead. Follow the storage instructions above to keep it fresh and ready for busy days.

What can I serve with Chili Mac?

Chili Mac pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread. You could also offer toppings like diced onions, jalapeños, or extra cheese to enhance the experience!

How can I make Chili Mac vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of Chili Mac, simply substitute ground beef with plant-based protein or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth.

Is Chili Mac suitable for large gatherings?

Yes! This recipe easily serves up to 18 cups, making it perfect for potlucks or family gatherings. Just double-check your serving dishes!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this hearty Chili Mac! It’s a comforting blend that brings together flavors everyone loves. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or part of your game day spread, this dish is sure to impress. Have fun creating this delicious recipe, and don’t forget to share your experience! Happy cooking!