Chili Mac

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that brings everyone together, then this Chili Mac is just what you need! It’s the perfect blend of hearty homemade chili and creamy macaroni and cheese. This delightful mashup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, making it ideal for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or even game day festivities. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s one of my all-time favorite recipes!

The beauty of Chili Mac lies in its ability to satisfy and warm your heart. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet night in, this dish is sure to bring smiles all around. So grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into this flavorful adventure together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This Chili Mac comes together in about an hour, making it a great choice for weeknight dinners.
• Family-Friendly: With its cheesy goodness and hearty flavors, even picky eaters will ask for seconds!
• Perfect for Leftovers: It stores well in the fridge and makes for delicious meals the next day.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust spices or add veggies to suit your family’s tastes.
• Great for Gatherings: This dish is always a hit at potlucks and parties—everyone loves it!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create this mouthwatering Chili Mac! You probably have many of these items on hand already. Here’s 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 Serve

• Fresh Parsley (to garnish)

Variations

This Chili Mac recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily modify it to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some corn or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Spice it up: Adjust the heat by adding jalapeños or using spicy chili seasoning.
• Make it creamy: For an extra creamy texture, mix in more cheese or use cream cheese.

How to Make Chili Mac

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook until it’s no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. This step brings out rich flavors that will enhance our dish.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Once the beef is browned, stir in the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until they’re soft—about 5 minutes—because sautéing them helps release their natural sweetness and depth of flavor.

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Tomatoes

Next, sprinkle in your chili seasoning mix followed by tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and kidney beans. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 15 minutes so those flavors meld beautifully.

Step 4: Cook the Macaroni

While your chili simmers away like a warm hug, cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside; we want them ready to soak up all that delicious chili goodness!

Step 5: Make the Cheese Sauce

In another pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth; this creates a roux that thickens our cheese sauce. Gradually add heavy cream and milk while stirring constantly until it thickens slightly—this creamy base will elevate our dish!

Step 6: Combine Everything

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Stir in mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, hot sauce, cooked macaroni, and shredded cheddar cheese into your chili mixture. Mix until everything is combined—each bite should be cheesy perfection!

Step 7: Serve It Up!

Spoon your hearty Chili Mac into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy each delicious bite knowing you’ve created something truly special!

There you have it—a delightful Chili Mac recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Pro Tips for Making Chili Mac

Making Chili Mac is a breeze with a few tips in your back pocket to ensure it’s perfect every time.

• Use quality ground beef: Opt for 80% lean ground beef for the best balance of flavor and moisture, which will keep your Chili Mac rich and satisfying.

• Cook pasta al dente: Cook the macaroni just until it’s slightly firm. It will continue to cook when combined with the chili, preventing it from becoming mushy.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add your favorite spices or extra chili seasoning to customize the heat and flavor profile to your liking.

• Make it cheesy: Don’t be shy with the cheese! Using a mix of cheeses can add depth—try blending cheddar with Monterey Jack for an extra creamy texture.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the Chili Mac to sit for about 5-10 minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together beautifully and makes serving easier.

How to Serve Chili Mac

Chili Mac is not only comforting but also versatile. Here are some creative ways you can present this delightful dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens the dish.
• Sliced green onions: These provide a mild crunch and subtle onion flavor that complements the richness of the mac and cheese.
• Crushed tortilla chips: For a fun twist, top your Chili Mac with crushed tortilla chips for added crunch and texture.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: The buttery garlic flavor of garlic bread pairs perfectly with the richness of Chili Mac, making it an irresistible combination.
• Simple salad: A light mixed greens salad dressed with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty main dish.
• Steamed broccoli: This vibrant vegetable adds nutrition and color while balancing out the meal’s savory elements.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread serves as a delightful side that complements the spiciness of the chili, making every bite even more enjoyable.

Enjoy your comforting bowl of Chili Mac, served up just how you like it!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chili Mac and Cheese recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious comfort food throughout the week. Whether you’re prepping for busy nights or planning a gathering, this dish holds up wonderfully in the fridge or freezer.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

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

Reheating

• Thaw frozen Chili Mac overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• For stovetop reheating, add a splash of milk or water to prevent drying out and heat over medium-low until warmed through.
• For microwave reheating, cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 1-minute 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?

Absolutely! You can prepare the Chili Mac ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat when you’re ready to serve!

What can I serve with Chili Mac?

Chili Mac pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or garlic bread. It’s also great alongside tortilla chips for extra crunch.

How do I make my Chili Mac spicier?

To add more heat, consider increasing the amount of hot sauce or adding diced jalapeños. You can also use spicy chili seasoning for an extra kick!

Can I substitute ground beef in this Chili Mac recipe?

Yes! You can easily swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based alternatives if you prefer a lighter option.

What is the best way to store leftover Chili Mac?

Store leftover Chili Mac in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days, or freeze it for long-term storage. Reheat gently to enjoy later!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this comforting dish! This Chili Mac recipe brings together hearty chili and creamy mac and cheese, creating a delightful blend that’s sure to please everyone at your table. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience – happy cooking!