Chili Mac

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that will warm your heart and feed your family, look no further than this incredible Chili Mac! It’s the perfect blend of hearty homemade chili and creamy macaroni and cheese. This dish has been a family favorite in my home for years, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a fun game day feast. The best part? You can whip it up in just over an hour!

Chili Mac is not just delicious; it’s also versatile enough for potlucks and gatherings. Everyone loves it, making it a surefire hit at any occasion. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, preparing Chili Mac is a breeze!
• Family-friendly: Kids adore cheesy pasta, and the added chili will keep even picky eaters coming back for more.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch ahead of time, and you’ll have leftovers ready to go for busy nights.
• Flavor-packed goodness: Combining rich flavors of chili with creamy cheese creates a dish that’s truly comforting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s take a look at the simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to make this delightful Chili Mac. Most of these you might already have in your pantry!

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

Variations

This Chili Mac recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some spinach or zucchini for added nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or extra hot sauce to turn up the heat!
• Go dairy-free: Substitute with plant-based milk and cheese alternatives to make it suitable for dairy-free diets.

How to Make Chili Mac

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture

Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat until it’s fully cooked. This step is essential because it builds the flavor base for your chili. Remove any excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pot with the beef. Sauté everything together until the vegetables soften—about 5 minutes. This not only adds depth to your dish but makes your kitchen smell amazing!

Step 3: Mix in Sauces and Beans

Stir in the chili seasoning mix, tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and drained kidney beans into your meat mixture. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, allowing those flavors to meld beautifully—around 10 minutes should do.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While your chili simmers, cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Cooking it separately ensures that it won’t get mushy when mixed later.

Step 5: Create the Cheese Sauce

In another saucepan, melt butter over medium heat before adding flour to create a roux. Whisk continuously until golden brown—this gives your cheese sauce body! Gradually whisk in heavy cream and milk until smooth; then stir in mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and hot sauce.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Mix the cooked macaroni into your chili mixture along with shredded cheddar cheese until everything is well combined and gooey! This step makes sure every bite has that cheesy goodness we all crave.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Spoon generous portions onto plates or into bowls. Top with fresh parsley for color and freshness! Your hearty Chili Mac is now ready to be enjoyed by everyone around your table.

Enjoy making this fabulous Chili Mac—it’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your home!

Pro Tips for Making Chili Mac

Making Chili Mac is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Use lean ground beef: Opting for lean ground beef reduces excess grease in your dish, making it healthier and allowing the flavors of the chili and cheese to shine through.
• Cook pasta al dente: Cooking the macaroni slightly underdone ensures that it doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the chili and cheese sauce. It also gives a nice bite to each forkful!
• Don’t skip the hot sauce: A little dash of hot sauce adds depth to the flavor without overwhelming heat. It enhances the overall taste profile of your Chili Mac, making it even more delicious.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your Chili Mac to sit for 5-10 minutes after cooking helps it firm up a bit, making it easier to serve and enjoy. The flavors will meld together beautifully during this resting period.
• Experiment with toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Items like diced jalapeños or crushed tortilla chips can add a fun texture and extra kick that elevate your dish.

How to Serve Chili Mac

Chili Mac is not just a meal; it’s a hearty experience that brings warmth and joy to your table. Whether you’re hosting friends for game day or enjoying a cozy family dinner, presentation can make all the difference!

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: Freshly chopped green onions add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the dish.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt provides a creamy contrast to the spicy chili, balancing out flavors beautifully.
• Shredded cheese: Adding more shredded cheese on top right before serving creates a gooey layer that’s irresistible.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: Sweet and fluffy cornbread pairs perfectly with Chili Mac, offering a comforting side that soaks up any extra chili sauce.
• Mixed greens salad: A light mixed greens salad topped with vinaigrette adds freshness to your plate and balances the richness of the Chili Mac.
• Steamed broccoli: Tender steamed broccoli not only adds vibrant color but also offers nutritious crunchiness that complements this hearty meal.
• Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a hit! Its buttery goodness makes it perfect for sopping up any leftover chili sauce.

Enjoy crafting this delightful meal, and don’t forget to share your own twists on this classic recipe! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chili Mac and Cheese recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week. Whether you want to make a big batch for your family or plan meals for busy days, this dish holds up wonderfully.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Portion out the Chili Mac into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label each container with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating if frozen.
• Reheat in a microwave-safe dish, adding a splash of milk if necessary, until heated through.
• Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed.

FAQs

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

Can I make Chili Mac ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare your Chili Mac ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just follow the storage instructions provided above!

What can I serve with Chili Mac?

Chili Mac pairs wonderfully with a side salad, garlic bread, or cornbread for a complete meal. It’s also great on its own as a hearty main dish.

Is Chili Mac suitable for kids?

Yes! This tasty dish is often a hit with picky eaters due to its cheesy goodness and comforting flavors. Plus, you can easily adjust the spice level according to your family’s preferences.

Can I use other types of cheese in my Chili Mac?

Certainly! While cheddar is traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added flavor!

Final Thoughts

This Chili Mac recipe is special because it combines two beloved comfort foods into one satisfying dish that everyone will love. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! It’s perfect for cozy dinners at home or fun gatherings with friends and family. Don’t hesitate to give it a try; I’m sure it’ll become a favorite in your household too!