Chili Mac

If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty meal that brings everyone together, this Chili Mac is just the ticket! Combining the rich flavors of homemade chili with creamy macaroni and cheese, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It’s a crowd-pleaser that satisfies both kids and adults alike, making it a go-to recipe for potlucks or game day festivities. Trust me, once you try this delicious blend of textures and tastes, you’ll want to add it to your regular rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and quick prep time, you can whip this up even on the busiest nights.
• Family-friendly: Both chili and mac and cheese are favorites in many households, ensuring everyone will enjoy it.
• Make-ahead convenience: This Chili Mac can be prepared in advance and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prepping.
• Deliciously hearty: The combination of savory beef, beans, and cheesy goodness makes each bite utterly satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Chili Mac! Each one contributes to that wonderful flavor we all love. 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 Garnish

• Fresh Parsley

Variations

This Chili Mac recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some corn or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or increase the hot sauce for those who love some heat.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute non-dairy milk and vegan cheese for a plant-based version.

How to Make Chili Mac

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. This step is crucial as it adds depth to the flavor of your chili base. Break up the meat with a spatula as it cooks until it’s no longer pink.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Once your beef is browned, add in the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté them together until they soften and become fragrant—about 3-4 minutes. This brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the overall taste of your dish.

Step 3: Stir in Seasonings

Next, sprinkle in the chili seasoning mix along with the tomato paste. Stir everything well so that the spices coat your meat and veggies evenly. This helps build that rich chili flavor we crave!

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juices, and chicken broth. Let this simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes to meld all those flavors together beautifully.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

While your chili simmers, cook your macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside; we’ll combine everything soon!

Step 6: Make the Cheese Sauce

In another saucepan, melt butter over medium heat before whisking in flour to form a roux. Gradually pour in heavy cream and milk while whisking continuously until smooth. Then stir in mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and hot sauce—this creates that luscious cheese sauce!

Step 7: Combine Everything

Mix the cooked macaroni into your chili mixture first; then pour over the cheese sauce while stirring gently until combined. Finally, fold in shredded cheddar cheese until melted throughout.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving! Dig into this warm bowl of comfort food that’s sure to bring smiles around your table.

Enjoy making this delightful Chili Mac! It’s not just a recipe; it’s an invitation to share good food and good times with loved ones!

Pro Tips for Making Chili Mac

Making the perfect Chili Mac is all about layering flavors and textures. Here are some handy tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions, peppers, and garlic can elevate the flavor profile of your chili. The natural sweetness and aroma from fresh produce make a noticeable difference.
• Customize Your Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili seasoning or add extra hot sauce to suit your family’s heat preference. This way, you can cater the dish to be mild for kids or spicy for adults!
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cooking your macaroni just until it’s al dente (firm to the bite) helps prevent it from becoming mushy when combined with the chili. This ensures that each bite has the perfect texture.
• Let It Rest: Allowing your Chili Mac to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together. It also makes serving easier as it thickens slightly.
• Experiment with Cheese Blends: While cheddar is classic, mixing in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack adds depth and creaminess to your dish. Feel free to get creative!

How to Serve Chili Mac

Chili Mac is not only hearty but also visually appealing! Present it in an inviting way that will make everyone at the table eager to dig in.

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: These add a fresh crunch and a pop of color that beautifully complements your Chili Mac.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt provides a creamy contrast and balances the spices in the dish.
• Shredded Cheese: Sprinkle extra shredded cheese on top right before serving for a melty, gooey finish that cheese lovers will adore.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: This classic side pairs perfectly with Chili Mac, allowing you to scoop up every last bite while adding an extra layer of flavor.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes dressed in vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of Chili Mac.
• Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins are a delightful addition that enhances the comfort-food vibe of your meal.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition while providing a nice crunch next to the creamy mac and cheese.

Enjoy making this comforting meal for family gatherings or cozy nights in—your loved ones are sure to come back for seconds!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chili Mac is perfect for meal prep, offering a comforting dish that can easily be enjoyed throughout the week. Whether you’re planning ahead for busy nights or simply want to savor leftovers, this recipe has you covered.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Portion the Chili Mac into individual servings or one large container.
• Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• Store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of milk if needed.
• Alternatively, use the microwave: heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come up while preparing your delicious Chili Mac!

Can I make Chili Mac ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance. Just follow the recipe as directed and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

What can I serve with Chili Mac?

Chili Mac pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, cornbread, or tortilla chips for added crunch.

How do I adjust the spice level of my Chili Mac?

To customize your Chili Mac’s spiciness, simply add more hot sauce or chili powder according to your taste. You can also use milder chili seasoning if you prefer less heat.

Can I substitute ground beef in this Chili Mac recipe?

Yes! You can swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives like lentils or black beans for a meat-free option.

Final Thoughts

This Chili Mac recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that brings comfort and warmth to any table. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that can be shared with family and friends. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to try it out and let your taste buds celebrate this cozy dish!