Chili Mac

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that warms the heart and fills the belly, look no further than this Chili Mac recipe! It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, combining hearty homemade chili with creamy macaroni and cheese. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for family gatherings or game day – everyone loves a good bowl of Chili Mac!

What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity and flavor. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you’ll create a dish that brings smiles to faces and satisfaction to hungry bellies. Trust me; once you try this Chili Mac, it will become one of your go-to favorites!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in about an hour, making dinner stress-free even on the busiest nights.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore the cheesy goodness combined with hearty chili flavors – it’s sure to please picky eaters!
• Make Ahead Convenience: You can easily prepare it in advance and reheat when ready to serve, perfect for meal prep.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your delicious meal and less time washing dishes!
• Flavor Packed: The combination of spices, creamy sauce, and melted cheese creates an irresistible flavor explosion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to make this delightful Chili Mac! You probably have many of these items in your pantry already.

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 (or 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)

To Garnish

• Fresh Parsley

Variations

This Chili Mac recipe is very flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some corn or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add sliced jalapeños or increase the hot sauce for an extra kick!
• Cheese overload: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for unique flavors.

How to Make Chili Mac

Step 1: Cook the Beef and Veggies

Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once it’s cooked through, add in the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until everything is softened; this step really brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to your Chili Mac.

Step 2: Add the Seasonings

Once your veggies are nice and tender, stir in the chili seasoning mix along with tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and kidney beans. Let this simmer for about 10 minutes so all those wonderful flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 3: Prepare the Macaroni

While your chili simmers away happily, cook your macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside; we’ll mix it into our flavorful chili shortly!

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

In another pot over medium heat, melt butter then whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually add heavy cream and milk while stirring constantly until it thickens slightly. Stir in mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and hot sauce – oh boy! This cheesy goodness is going to take your Chili Mac to new heights!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Now it’s time for the magic moment where everything comes together! Combine your chili mixture with cooked macaroni and pour in that dreamy cheese sauce. Stir gently until everything is coated beautifully – this is what makes it so special!

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Transfer your Chili Mac into a baking dish if desired or serve straight from the pot! Top with additional cheddar cheese if you like that melty topping effect. Bake at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden on top.

And there you have it – a delightful bowl of Chili Mac ready to be enjoyed! Serve warm with fresh parsley sprinkled on top for that extra pop of color!

Pro Tips for Making Chili Mac

Creating the perfect Chili Mac can be a breeze with just a few helpful tips!

• Use lean ground beef: Opting for 80% lean ground beef helps reduce excess fat while still providing enough flavor and richness to your dish. This keeps the meal hearty without being overly greasy.

• Customize the spice level: If you love a bit of heat, feel free to add more hot sauce or even diced jalapeños! Adjusting the spice level can make this dish more exciting and tailored to your taste.

• Cook the pasta al dente: Cooking your macaroni just until it’s al dente ensures that it retains some bite. This prevents it from becoming mushy when mixed with the chili and cheese.

• Experiment with cheese: While cheddar is the classic choice, mixing in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack can add wonderful flavors. Cheese variety not only enhances the taste but also creates a delightful melty texture.

• Make it ahead of time: Chili Mac can be made in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer. Reheating makes for an easy meal on busy nights, allowing you to enjoy homemade comfort food any day of the week.

How to Serve Chili Mac

Serving Chili Mac is all about making it feel special and inviting! Here are some fun ideas to present this delicious dish that will impress family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, balancing out the rich flavors of the dish.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop on top provides a creamy contrast that complements the spices in your chili, adding an extra layer of flavor.
• Sliced green onions: These lend a nice crunch and slight onion flavor, enhancing both presentation and taste.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: Sweet, fluffy cornbread pairs perfectly with Chili Mac, soaking up all those delicious juices while adding its own comforting touch.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens dressed in a tangy vinaigrette will provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of your main dish.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers can offer vibrant colors and flavors that complement your meal beautifully.
• Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a hit! It’s perfect for dipping into any leftover chili sauce, bringing an extra layer of satisfaction to your dinner table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chili Mac is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week. It stores well and can be made in advance, making it an excellent choice for busy nights.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Portion the Chili Mac into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label each container with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, consume within 1-2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen Chili Mac overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in a microwave-safe dish, stirring occasionally until heated through (about 3-5 minutes).
• Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe.

Can I make Chili Mac ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this Chili Mac in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze it for longer storage.

What goes well with Chili Mac?

Chili Mac pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread. It’s also great alongside your favorite game day snacks!

How do I make my Chili Mac spicier?

To add a kick, increase the amount of hot sauce or chili seasoning mix. You can also mix in jalapeños or other spicy peppers!

Can I use a different type of cheese in my Chili Mac?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a blend of your favorites for unique flavors.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting and hearty Chili Mac! It’s a wonderful recipe that’s not only satisfying but also easy to customize and share with family and friends. Whether it’s game day or just a cozy evening at home, this dish promises smiles all around. Happy cooking!