Chili Mac

This Chili Mac and Cheese recipe combines hearty homemade chili with creamy macaroni and cheese, creating a delicious meal that’s perfect for various occasions. Whether it’s a family dinner, a potluck, or game day, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. The blend of flavors and textures makes it a standout choice that brings comfort food to a new level.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish quickly.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of chili and cheesy pasta offers a rich taste that will leave everyone wanting more.
• Versatile Meal: This Chili Mac works well as a main course or as a side dish at gatherings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love its cheesy goodness, making it an ideal option for picky eaters.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a large batch ahead of time for easy reheating during busy weeknights.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking dish

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Perfect for cooking the macaroni while simultaneously preparing the chili.
• Skillet: Ideal for browning the ground beef and sautéing vegetables, ensuring maximum flavor.
• Mixing spoon: Helps in combining ingredients smoothly for even distribution of flavors.

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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
• 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

• 2 cups macaroni (uncooked)

For the Cheese Sauce

• 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

How to Make Chili Mac

Step 1: Cook the Chili Mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
1. Add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until softened.
2. Stir in the chili seasoning mix, tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and kidney beans.
3. Simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 2: Prepare the Macaroni

In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
1. Drain and set aside when done.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In another pan over medium heat:
1. Melt butter; whisk in flour to create a roux.
2. Gradually whisk in heavy cream and milk until smooth.
3. Add mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and hot sauce.
4. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.

Step 4: Combine Everything

In your large pot with cooked macaroni:
1. Pour in the chili mixture followed by the cheese sauce.
2. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Step 5: Serve

Spoon servings into bowls or plates and garnish with fresh parsley before enjoying!

How to Serve Chili Mac

Chili Mac is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a game day gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

For a Hearty Meal

• Top with Fresh Herbs: Add chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for a burst of flavor and color.
• Serve with Crusty Bread: Pair your Chili Mac with warm, crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.

As a Party Dish

• In Individual Bowls: Serve in small bowls topped with shredded cheese and jalapeños for a fun twist.
• Garnish with Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spices.

For Kids’ Meals

• Fun Shaped Pasta: Swap out regular macaroni for fun-shaped pasta to make it more appealing to kids.
• Add Veggies: Sneak in some finely chopped spinach or zucchini to boost nutrition without compromising taste.

How to Perfect Chili Mac

To make the best Chili Mac, keep these simple tips in mind. They will help you achieve a creamy texture and robust flavor that everyone will love.

• Bold Seasoning: Use homemade chili seasoning for deeper flavor. This allows you to control spice levels and customize the taste.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Prepare the macaroni until just tender. It will cook further when mixed with hot chili, preventing mushiness.
• Mix Cheese Varieties: Combine different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or pepper jack with cheddar for added depth.
• Adjust Consistency: If the dish seems too thick, stir in extra broth or milk until you reach your desired creaminess.

Best Side Dishes for Chili Mac

Pairing side dishes with Chili Mac can enhance your meal. Here are some great options that complement this hearty dish perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up leftover sauce.
2. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness, balancing the rich flavors of the Chili Mac.
3. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread provides a delightful contrast to the spicy chili flavors.
4. Green Salad – A light green salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint to the heaviness of the meal.
5. Roasted Vegetables – Roasted carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers add color and nutrients to your plate.
6. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges are always a crowd-pleaser and pair well with chili-based dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people love making Chili Mac, but there are a few common mistakes that can detract from the final dish. Here are some tips to ensure your Chili Mac turns out perfectly every time.

• Using low-quality meat – Cheap ground beef can result in a greasy and bland dish. Opt for lean ground beef for better flavor and texture.
• Overcooking the pasta – Cooking macaroni too long will lead to mushy noodles. Cook it al dente, as it will continue to cook in the chili.
• Skimping on seasonings – A bland Chili Mac is disappointing. Don’t hold back on spices and seasonings; they elevate the dish’s flavor significantly.
• Neglecting to drain beans properly – Undrained beans can water down your Chili Mac. Always drain and rinse canned beans before adding them.
• Skipping the garnish – Garnish adds freshness and visual appeal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or cheese on top makes the dish more inviting.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Chili Mac

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
• Portion out servings for easy reheating later.

Reheating Chili Mac

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Reheat over medium heat, stirring often until evenly heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chili Mac that may help you perfect your recipe.

What is Chili Mac?

Chili Mac is a comforting dish combining hearty chili with creamy macaroni and cheese, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Can I use turkey instead of beef in Chili Mac?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative that keeps the meal light while still being flavorful.

How can I customize my Chili Mac?

Feel free to add vegetables like corn or zucchini, or swap out kidney beans for black beans based on your preference.

Is there a vegetarian version of Chili Mac?

Absolutely! You can replace ground beef with lentils or textured vegetable protein for a delicious vegetarian version of this dish.

How do I make homemade chili seasoning?

Combine chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt for a simple homemade chili seasoning mix.

Final Thoughts

This Chili Mac recipe combines two beloved comfort foods into one hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s versatile too—feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or adjust the spice level. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!