Chili Mac

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that combines two favorites into one hearty meal, then you’ve come to the right place! This Chili Mac is not just a recipe; it’s a hug in a bowl. Imagine rich, savory chili mingling with creamy macaroni and cheese—it’s pure bliss! Whether it’s a busy weeknight, a family gathering, or game day with friends, this dish has got you covered. It’s easy to whip up and guarantees smiles all around the table.

I love how this Chili Mac brings everyone together, making it perfect for sharing. The blend of flavors and textures creates a delightful experience that will have even the pickiest eaters asking for seconds. So grab your apron and let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Make: With just one pot needed for cooking, cleanup is a breeze!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy every cheesy bite—perfect for picky eaters!
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store leftovers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and flavor, this dish will keep everyone satisfied.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust ingredients to suit your taste or pantry.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create this scrumptious Chili Mac. You might already have some of these 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)
• Fresh Parsley (to garnish)

Variations

One of the best things about this Chili Mac recipe is its flexibility. You can easily customize it to fit your taste or dietary needs!

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some zucchini or corn for extra nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: If you like heat, add jalapeños or increase the amount of hot sauce.
• Go vegan: Substitute the beef with lentils or black beans and use plant-based cheese!

How to Make Chili Mac

Step 1: Cook the Meat

Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Breaking it apart as it cooks helps develop those rich flavors we adore in chili. Once it’s nice and browned, drain any excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pot with the cooked meat. Sauté them until they become tender and fragrant—this step really enhances their natural sweetness.

Step 3: Stir in Seasonings

Next, sprinkle in your chili seasoning mix along with tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and kidney beans. Stir everything together well; this combination creates the heartiness of your chili.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Now add uncooked macaroni directly into the pot! Stir it in along with enough water or broth to cover everything well. Bring it to a simmer, then cover and cook until pasta is tender—about 10-12 minutes.

Step 5: Make It Cheesy!

Once your pasta is cooked through, reduce heat and stir in butter until melted. Then sprinkle flour over it while mixing continuously—this helps thicken our creamy sauce beautifully! Pour in heavy cream and milk next while continuing to stir.

Step 6: Add Cheese & Serve

Finally, mix in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and gooey! Taste for seasoning adjustments before serving. Garnish bowls with fresh parsley for an inviting touch!

And there you have it—your very own comforting bowl of Chili Mac ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips for Making Chili Mac

Creating the perfect Chili Mac is all about the little details that elevate your dish, and I’m here to help you nail it!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality meat can significantly enhance the flavor of your Chili Mac. Freshness adds depth and vibrancy that dried or canned ingredients simply can’t replicate.

• Customize Your Spiciness: If you love heat, consider adding more hot sauce or diced jalapeños. Adjusting the spice level to your preference can make this dish even more enjoyable for everyone at the table.

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: By cooking your macaroni just until it’s al dente, you prevent it from becoming mushy during the baking process. This ensures a perfect texture in every bite!

• Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar cheese offers a classic flavor, mixing in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack can add interesting layers of taste and creaminess.

• Make It Ahead of Time: Chili Mac stores beautifully in the fridge. You can prepare it a day ahead, let the flavors meld together overnight, and then simply bake when you’re ready to serve!

How to Serve Chili Mac

Serving Chili Mac is an opportunity to get creative! With its hearty components, this dish not only satisfies but also leaves room for fun presentation ideas.

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: A sprinkle of green onions on top adds a fresh crunch and bright color that contrasts beautifully with the rich chili mac.

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream brings creaminess and tang, perfectly balancing the heat from the chili seasoning.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: Soft and slightly sweet cornbread complements the savory flavors of Chili Mac while providing a delightful texture contrast.

• Simple Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers offers a refreshing crunch. Toss with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the main dish.

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasting seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots adds depth and sweetness. The caramelization enhances their natural flavors, making them an ideal sidekick to your hearty meal.

Whether you’re serving this at a family gathering or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these tips will help you shine as a host while ensuring everyone leaves satisfied!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chili Mac is perfect for meal prep, making it an ideal choice for busy weeks or gatherings with friends and family. You can easily store leftovers or even freeze portions to enjoy later!

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

• Divide the Chili Mac into individual portions.
• Place each portion in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• Label and date each container before freezing. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• For best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If using a microwave, heat in short bursts, stirring in between until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious Chili Mac recipe:

Can I make Chili Mac ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the Chili Mac in advance and store it in the refrigerator for a few days or freeze it for later enjoyment.

What can I serve with Chili Mac?

Chili Mac pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or corn muffins for a complete meal that everyone will love!

Is this Chili Mac suitable for picky eaters?

Yes! This comforting dish combines two favorites—chili and macaroni and cheese—making it appealing to even the pickiest eaters.

Can I customize my Chili Mac?

Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies or substitute ground beef with ground turkey or meat alternatives based on your preferences.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this hearty Chili Mac as much as I do! It’s a comforting blend of flavors that brings together family and friends around the dinner table. Whether you’re prepping for a busy week or hosting game night, this recipe will surely become a favorite. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience!