Chili Mac

This Chili Mac recipe is a delightful combination of hearty homemade chili and creamy macaroni and cheese. It’s perfect for various occasions, including family dinners, potlucks, or game day celebrations. The unique blend of flavors and textures makes this dish a standout favorite that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
• Hearty and Satisfying: The combination of ground beef, beans, and cheese makes for a filling dish that will satisfy even the hungriest eaters.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main course or side dish; it’s great for any occasion!
• Kid-Friendly Flavor: The creamy cheese and savory chili are sure to please picky eaters of all ages.
• Easy Clean-Up: One-pot preparation means less mess and more time enjoying your meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make the cooking process smooth and efficient, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can greatly enhance your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Cheese grater

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Perfect for cooking the chili mac in one go, ensuring even heating and easy mixing.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
• Cheese grater: Helps in shredding cheese quickly for even melting throughout the dish.

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Ingredients

For this flavorful Chili Mac, gather 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)

For Garnishing

• Fresh parsley (to garnish)

How to Make Chili Mac

Step 1: Cook the Beef Mixture

Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Add diced onions, bell pepper, and garlic to the pot. Sauté until vegetables are softened, approximately 5 minutes.

Step 3: Stir in Chili Ingredients

Mix in the chili seasoning, tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and drained kidney beans. Bring to a simmer.

Step 4: Cook the Macaroni

In a separate pot, cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well.

Step 5: Make Cheese Sauce

In another pan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1 minute. Slowly whisk in heavy cream and milk until smooth. Add mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and hot sauce.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Stir in shredded cheddar cheese into the sauce until melted. Mix cooked macaroni into the chili base followed by the cheese sauce.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm! Enjoy your hearty 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 enjoying a cozy night in, there are plenty of delicious serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Fresh Toppings

• Sour Cream: A dollop adds creaminess and balances the spice of the chili.
• Chopped Green Onions: Fresh green onions offer a crunchy texture and bright flavor.
• Shredded Lettuce: Adds a refreshing crunch that complements the warm chili mac.

As a Casserole

• Layered Baking Dish: Transfer your Chili Mac to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake until bubbly for a comforting casserole version.
• Serve with Cornbread: Pair it with cornbread for a hearty and satisfying meal that everyone will love.

In Bread Bowls

• Edible Bowls: Serve Chili Mac in hollowed-out bread bowls for a fun and interactive dining experience. The bread absorbs the flavors as you eat!

Best Side Dishes for Chili Mac

Pairing side dishes with your Chili Mac can enhance the meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread slathered with garlic butter is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Parmesan cheese tossed in Caesar dressing provides a fresh contrast.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, balancing the richness of the Chili Mac.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers color and nutrition without overpowering flavors.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs perfectly with chili flavors; serve it grilled or boiled for simplicity.
6. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil adds depth and variety to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chili Mac can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold choice of seasonings: Using too much chili seasoning can overpower the dish. Start with half the packet and adjust to taste.
• Bold cooking time for pasta: Undercooking or overcooking macaroni can ruin the texture. Follow package instructions and keep an eye on it while cooking.
• Bold cheese selection: Not using enough cheese or opting for low-quality cheese can affect creaminess. Stick with good quality cheddar for the best results.
• Bold layering of ingredients: Adding all ingredients at once can lead to uneven flavors. Layer your chili and mac carefully for a well-balanced taste.
• Bold storage practices: Storing Chili Mac in the wrong container can cause it to dry out. Use airtight containers for optimal freshness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-5 days for best freshness.

Freezing Chili Mac

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Chili Mac

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat on low, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk if it seems dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chili Mac and their answers.

What is Chili Mac?

Chili Mac is a comforting dish that combines chili with macaroni and cheese, creating a hearty meal perfect for any occasion.

Can I make Chili Mac ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it ahead, store it properly, and reheat when ready to serve.

How do I customize my Chili Mac?

Feel free to add vegetables like corn or zucchini, or try different types of beans for added nutrition and flavor.

Is there a vegetarian option for Chili Mac?

Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives for a delicious vegetarian version of Chili Mac.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! While cheddar is classic, you can mix cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Chili Mac recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect as a family dinner or potluck dish, it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients. Give it a try and enjoy the comforting blend of flavors!