Chili Mac

This Chili Mac recipe combines the comforting flavors of chili with creamy macaroni and cheese, creating a hearty dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner, a potluck gathering, or game day festivities, this recipe delivers satisfying flavors that everyone will love. The blend of spices and cheesy goodness makes it a standout meal that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With just a few straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and flavors, this dish will keep you satisfied for hours.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or gatherings with friends.
• Kid-Friendly: The creamy cheese and tasty chili appeal to even the pickiest eaters.
• Leftover Friendly: This Chili Mac tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready ensures a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Strainer

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta and combining all ingredients efficiently.
• Skillet: Ideal for browning the beef and sautéing vegetables to enhance flavor.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware.

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Ingredients

For this delicious Chili Mac recipe, 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 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)

Garnish

• Fresh Parsley (to garnish)

How to Make Chili Mac

Step 1: Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Add Chili Ingredients

Stir in the chili seasoning mix, tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juice, chicken broth, and kidney beans. Let it simmer on low heat while you prepare the macaroni.

Step 4: Boil Macaroni

In another large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well.

Step 5: Make Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually add heavy cream and milk while whisking constantly until thickened. Stir in mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, hot sauce, and cheddar cheese until melted.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Mix together the cooked macaroni with chili base and cheese sauce in a large bowl or pot until well combined.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm. Enjoy your flavorful Chili Mac!

How to Serve Chili Mac

Chili Mac is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking for a cozy meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Classic Serving

• Serve the Chili Mac hot from the oven topped with shredded cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Family Style

• Present it in a large casserole dish to encourage family-style serving. This makes it easy for everyone to help themselves!

With Toppings

• Offer a variety of toppings such as sour cream, sliced jalapeños, diced onions, or avocado slices for guests to customize their bowls.

On Game Day

• Serve Chili Mac in individual bowls with cornbread on the side. It’s perfect for enjoying while cheering on your favorite team!

As Leftovers

• Reheat any leftovers and serve in a bowl with extra cheese melted on top. It tastes even better the next day!

How to Perfect Chili Mac

To ensure your Chili Mac turns out delicious every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality ground beef enhance the flavor of your dish significantly.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: To avoid mushy noodles, cook macaroni just until al dente before mixing it with chili.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by adding more or less hot sauce according to your taste preferences.
• Make Your Own Seasoning: Create a homemade chili seasoning mix for a fresher taste without preservatives.
• Layer Flavors: Allow the chili mixture to simmer longer for richer flavors before combining with the macaroni and cheese.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley or sliced green onions right before serving for added freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Chili Mac

Pairing side dishes with your Chili Mac can enhance the meal’s overall experience. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Cornbread
   A slightly sweet cornbread complements the savory flavors of Chili Mac perfectly.

2. Garlic Bread
   Crispy garlic bread is great for soaking up any leftover sauce and adds extra flavor.

3. Side Salad
   A fresh garden salad with mixed greens provides a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of Chili Mac.

4. Coleslaw
   Creamy coleslaw offers crunch and a tangy contrast that pairs well with hearty dishes like this one.

5. Steamed Vegetables
   Lightly seasoned steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition alongside your main dish.

6. Pickle Chips
   Tangy pickle chips can provide an unexpected zing that complements the richness of the meal nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chili Mac can be fun, but it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s taste and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your meal turns out perfectly.

• Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the meat properly can lead to bland chili. Always season your ground beef with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Bold undercooking pasta: Undercooked macaroni will remain hard after baking. Make sure to cook it until al dente before mixing it with the chili and cheese.
• Bold ignoring simmer time: Skipping the simmering step can prevent flavors from developing. Allow the chili to simmer for at least 20 minutes to build rich flavors.
• Bold using low-quality cheese: Low-quality cheese can affect the creaminess of your dish. Use freshly shredded cheddar for optimal melting and flavor.
• Bold overcrowding the pot: Overcrowding can hinder even cooking. Cook in batches if necessary, especially when browning beef and sautéing vegetables.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Let it cool completely before placing it in the fridge.

Freezing Chili Mac

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Consider portioning into single servings for easy meals later.

Reheating Chili Mac

• Bold oven: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
• Bold microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Bold stovetop: Heat on medium-low heat in a pan, stirring frequently until warmed through. Add a splash of milk if needed for creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chili Mac that may help you along the way.

What is Chili Mac?

Chili Mac is a delicious combination of chili and macaroni and cheese, creating a hearty comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in Chili Mac?

Yes! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative that works well in this recipe without sacrificing flavor.

How do I customize my Chili Mac?

You can add different beans like black beans or pinto beans, or spice it up with jalapeños or additional chili powder according to your taste preferences.

How long does leftover Chili Mac last?

Leftover Chili Mac will last about 4 days in the refrigerator if stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I make Chili Mac ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chili part ahead of time and mix it with cooked macaroni just before serving.

Final Thoughts

Chili Mac is not only comforting but also versatile—you can easily customize it based on your taste preferences or dietary needs. This dish makes a great weeknight meal or potluck favorite. Give it a try, and enjoy the delightful blend of flavors!