Chili Mac

This Chili Mac and Cheese recipe combines hearty homemade chili with creamy macaroni and cheese. It’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for dinner, potlucks, or game days. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, this dish stands out as a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or at a gathering, Chili Mac is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious meal ready in no time.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of chili and mac and cheese appeals to both kids and adults, making it a great family meal.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive gatherings or game day celebrations.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and flavors, this dish will keep everyone satisfied and happy.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Chili Mac, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures that everything cooks evenly and efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the macaroni and combining all ingredients without overflow.
• Skillet: Perfect for browning the ground beef and sautéing vegetables evenly.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient portions for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

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 Mac 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)

Garnish

• Fresh Parsley (to garnish)

How to Make Chili Mac

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook until onions are translucent.

Step 3: Add Seasonings

Stir in the chili seasoning mix, tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juice, chicken broth, and kidney beans. Mix well.

Step 4: Simmer

Let the mixture simmer for about 20 minutes on low heat while stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

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

Step 6: Make Cheese Sauce

In another pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth; gradually add heavy cream and milk while whisking constantly until thickened.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce along with mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, hot sauce, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until cheese is melted.

Step 8: Mix Chili with Macaroni

Combine the chili mixture with the macaroni and cheese in one large pot or bowl. Mix thoroughly to combine all flavors.

Step 9: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm! Enjoy your delicious Chili Mac!

How to Serve Chili Mac

Chili Mac is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or looking for a comforting dinner, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal experience.

Classic Serving

• Serve the Chili Mac hot in bowls, topped with extra cheese and chopped green onions for added flavor.

With Cornbread

• Pair it with warm cornbread to soak up the delicious chili sauce. This combination adds a sweet contrast to the savory dish.

Topped with Avocado

• Add slices of fresh avocado on top for creaminess and a fresh taste that complements the spices in the chili.

With a Side Salad

• A crisp green salad on the side provides a refreshing balance to the rich, cheesy flavors of the Chili Mac.

As a Nacho Topping

• Use leftover Chili Mac as a topping for tortilla chips, drizzling with jalapeños and sour cream for a fun twist.

In Meal Prep Containers

• Divide into meal prep containers for an easy grab-and-go lunch. It reheats well and remains flavorful throughout the week.

How to Perfect Chili Mac

Perfecting your Chili Mac is all about enhancing flavors and ensuring great texture. Here are some tips to make your dish stand out:

• Use Quality Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar cheese for a richer flavor that elevates the creamy mac and cheese base.

• Brown Your Meat Well: Searing ground beef until nicely browned adds depth to the flavor profile of your dish.

• Customize Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of chili seasoning or hot sauce based on your preference for heat.

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate more veggies like zucchini or corn for added nutrition and texture.

• Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for 5-10 minutes after cooking helps it thicken and develop flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Chili Mac

If you’re looking to round out your meal, these side dishes complement Chili Mac beautifully.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that pairs perfectly with any pasta dish, offering buttery garlic goodness.

2. Coleslaw: This crunchy side adds freshness and balances out the richness of Chili Mac.

3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers nutrients and color alongside your main dish.

4. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes are filling and can be topped with butter or sour cream as desired.

5. Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons make this salad an excellent companion to your meal.

6. Fried Zucchini: Crispy fried zucchini sticks provide a satisfying crunch that complements the softness of Chili Mac.

7. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is an easy summer side that pairs well with bold flavors like chili.

8. Potato Chips: For something simple, serve crunchy potato chips as an easy snackable side that kids will love!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chili Mac, it’s easy to overlook some key elements. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Not seasoning properly: Failing to season the chili mix can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the macaroni too long can make it mushy. Aim for al dente texture since it will cook further in the oven.
• Ignoring cheese type: Using pre-shredded cheese can affect texture. Opt for block cheese and shred it yourself for better melting.
• Skipping the garnishes: Not adding fresh parsley or other toppings can miss an opportunity for added flavor and presentation. Always garnish before serving!
• Using low-quality beef: Choosing leaner ground beef may result in less flavor. Select a good quality ground beef (80% lean) for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Chili Mac can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chili Mac

• Allow Chili Mac to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chili Mac

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish and cover with foil; heat until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl; heat on medium power, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of milk over low heat and stir regularly until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Chili Mac that you may find helpful:

What is Chili Mac?

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

Can I make Chili Mac vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute ground beef with plant-based protein or lentils, and ensure your cheese is vegetarian-friendly.

How spicy is this Chili Mac?

The spice level can be adjusted by controlling the amount of hot sauce used. Feel free to add or reduce based on your preference!

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar works well, you can experiment with Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even cream cheese for a creamy twist.

What goes well with Chili Mac?

Chili Mac pairs wonderfully with cornbread, a fresh salad, or even garlic bread for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

This Chili Mac recipe is not just delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different proteins or spices. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner idea or feeding a crowd at a potluck, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Give it a try, and enjoy the delightful blend of flavors!