Chili Mac

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms the heart and delights the taste buds, you’ve stumbled upon a gem: Chili Mac! This delightful dish is a comforting blend of hearty homemade chili and creamy macaroni and cheese. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights or family gatherings where everyone gathers around the table with smiles. I love how this recipe brings together flavors that feel like a warm hug, making it a favorite in our home.

Whether you’re hosting friends for game day or simply want to whip up something special for your loved ones, this Chili Mac is sure to impress. It’s easy to prepare, and the combination of flavors makes it a hit every time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious meal on the table in an hour!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy goodness mixed with zesty chili flavors.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily prepare it ahead of time and reheat when needed—perfect for meal prep!
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as is or customize to fit your family’s tastes; there are so many options!
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks or gatherings, this dish serves plenty and always gets rave reviews.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that make this Chili Mac truly special. These are pantry staples that you might already have at home, making your cooking experience even more enjoyable.

For the Chili

• 1 lb. 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)

For Garnishing

• Fresh Parsley (to garnish)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adjust it to fit your preferences or dietary needs.

• Swap the protein: Try ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some corn, zucchini, or spinach to boost the nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for extra flavor.
• Spice it up: Add jalapeños or extra hot sauce if you love some heat!

How to Make Chili Mac

Step 1: Cook the Beef and Veggies

Start by browning your ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. This step is essential because it adds depth to your dish. As the beef cooks, add in the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté until they soften; this brings out their natural sweetness which enhances the overall flavor of your Chili Mac.

Step 2: Season and Simmer

Once your beef is cooked through, stir in minced garlic followed by chili seasoning mix, tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and kidney beans. Let everything simmer together for about 10-15 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully!

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In another pot, melt butter over medium heat before whisking in flour to form a roux. Gradually add in heavy cream and milk while whisking continuously until smooth and thickened. Stir in mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, hot sauce, and finally mix in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Pasta with Sauces

Now comes the fun part! Cook your macaroni according to package instructions until al dente—this ensures it has a nice bite when mixed with all those rich flavors. Drain it well before adding it directly into your chili mixture followed by pouring over that luscious cheese sauce. Stir well until everything is combined.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Chili Mac hot from the pot! Feel free to garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness on top. Enjoy this comforting dish with family or friends—there’s nothing quite like sharing good food together!

I hope you love making this Chili Mac as much as I do! It’s a true crowd-pleaser that warms both hearts and bellies alike.

Pro Tips for Making Chili Mac

Making Chili Mac can be a breeze, and a few handy tips will take your dish from great to unforgettable!

• Use quality ground beef: Opting for 80% lean beef adds flavor without excessive grease, giving your chili mac the perfect balance of richness and texture.

• Don’t skip the seasoning: Homemade chili seasoning can elevate the flavors significantly. A mix of chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder adds depth that store-bought mixes might lack.

• Cook pasta al dente: Cooking your macaroni just until it’s al dente ensures it maintains its shape and doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the chili and cheese sauce.

• Incorporate veggies: Adding more vegetables like corn or zucchini can enhance the nutritional profile while bringing additional flavors and textures to your Chili Mac.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your Chili Mac to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking helps all the flavors meld together, making each bite even more delicious!

How to Serve Chili Mac

Chili Mac is not just a meal; it’s an experience! Presenting this dish in a delightful way will make it even more appealing to your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop on top provides a creamy contrast and balances out the spice from the chili.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sliced jalapeños add both flavor and an inviting visual element.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce and complements the rich flavors of Chili Mac beautifully.

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes offers a refreshing crunch that balances the hearty nature of Chili Mac.

• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans lightly steamed bring color and nutrition to your plate, adding a healthy touch to your meal.

• Cornbread: Sweet, buttery cornbread pairs wonderfully with Chili Mac, adding a comforting side that many people love.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating an unforgettable meal that everyone will love! Enjoy every bite of this delicious Chili Mac!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chili Mac recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious flavors throughout the week without the fuss. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or preparing for busy weekdays, this dish stores wonderfully!

Storing Leftovers

• Let the Chili Mac cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Allow the Chili Mac to cool completely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen Chili Mac in the refrigerator overnight.
• Heat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Chili Mac that might help you out!

Can I make Chili Mac ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare Chili Mac in advance and store it in the fridge or freeze it for later. It reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep.

What can I serve with my Chili Mac?

Chili Mac pairs wonderfully with cornbread, a fresh salad, or even tortilla chips. Feel free to get creative with your sides!

How do I make Chili Mac vegetarian?

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

Is there a gluten-free option for Chili Mac?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free. You can enjoy a delicious bowl of Chili Mac without any worries!

Final Thoughts

I hope this warm and comforting Chili Mac becomes a staple in your kitchen! It’s not only delicious but also an easy way to bring family and friends together around the table. Enjoy making this dish as much as I do, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences. Happy cooking!