Chili Mac is a delightful blend of hearty chili and creamy macaroni and cheese, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a potluck, enjoying game day snacks, or simply looking for a comforting dinner idea, this dish stands out with its rich flavors and satisfying textures. The combination of savory ingredients ensures that every bite is a winner!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This Chili Mac comes together in just an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor-Packed: With its blend of spices and creamy cheese, this dish delivers a burst of flavor with every mouthful.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this comforting meal, making it great for family dinners.
- Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main course or as a side at gatherings; it fits well in any setting.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare this dish ahead of time for an easy reheat on those hectic days.
Tools and Preparation
To make this delicious Chili Mac, gathering the right tools is essential for smooth preparation. Having the right kitchen equipment can greatly enhance your cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cheese grater
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Ideal for cooking the macaroni and mixing all the ingredients without spills.
- Skillet: Perfect for browning the ground beef and sautéing vegetables evenly.
- Cheese grater: Freshly grated cheese melts better, enhancing the creaminess of your Chili Mac.
Ingredients
For the Chili Mixture
- 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)
Garnish
- Fresh Parsley
How to Make Chili Mac
Step 1: Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Add diced onions, bell peppers, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Add Chili Ingredients
Stir in chili seasoning mix, tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and kidney beans. Allow to simmer for about 10 minutes.
Step 4: Cook the Macaroni
In a separate large pot, cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 5: Make Cheese Sauce
In another pan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux; gradually add heavy cream and milk while stirring continuously until thickened.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Fold in cooked macaroni into the chili mixture followed by the cheese sauce. Stir until well combined.
Step 7: Add Cheese
Mix in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy throughout.
Step 8: Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot. Enjoy your Chili Mac!
How to Serve Chili Mac
Chili Mac is a delicious blend of flavors that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or just for a family dinner, here are some creative serving suggestions.
Top with Fresh Ingredients
- Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle some fresh green onions on top for a crunchy and flavorful bite.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spiciness of the chili.
- Shredded Lettuce: Add some shredded lettuce for freshness and a nice texture contrast.
Pair with Crunchy Sides
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread complements the heat of the chili mac perfectly.
- Tortilla Chips: Serve with tortilla chips for extra crunch and a fun way to scoop up the chili mac.
- Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread is great for dipping into the cheesy goodness.
Make it a Meal
- Green Salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette can balance out the richness of chili mac.
- Steamed Veggies: Serve alongside steamed broccoli or green beans for a healthy side.
How to Perfect Chili Mac
To create the ultimate Chili Mac, keep these tips in mind. They will help elevate your dish for an even more satisfying experience.
- Use Quality Meat: Opt for 80% lean ground beef for flavor without too much grease.
- Add Extra Spices: Enhance flavor by adding extra spices like cumin or smoked paprika.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: This prevents the macaroni from becoming mushy when mixed with the chili.
- Incorporate Cheese Gradually: Mix in cheese in stages to ensure it’s fully melted and creamy throughout.
- Let it Rest: Allow the dish to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking; this helps thicken and intensify flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Chili Mac
A well-rounded meal includes delightful side dishes that complement your Chili Mac. Here are some excellent options:
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery, garlic bread pairs wonderfully with chili mac.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the rich flavors of the main dish.
- Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing make a refreshing counterpoint to hearty chili mac.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring color and nutrition to your plate.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is a classic side that works well with any hearty meal.
- Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes can soak up any extra sauce while adding another layer of comfort food.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers sweetness that cuts through the richness of chili mac.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Chili Mac can be straightforward, but there are a few common pitfalls that can lead to less-than-ideal results.
- seasoning choice: Using too much or too little chili seasoning can overwhelm the dish. Start with the recommended amount and adjust to taste.
- pasta cooking: Overcooking the macaroni can make it mushy. Cook it just until al dente, as it will continue to soften when mixed with the chili.
- ingredient quality: Skimping on cheese quality can affect flavor. Opt for a good quality cheddar for a rich and creamy texture.
- timing issues: Adding all ingredients at once can lead to uneven cooking. Follow the recipe steps closely for the best results.
- serving size confusion: Not measuring out servings can leave you guessing how much to dish out. Use a measuring cup to ensure everyone gets enough.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating.
Freezing Chili Mac
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.
Reheating Chili Mac
- Oven method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave method: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between each interval.
- Stovetop method: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring frequently until warmed thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Chili Mac that may help clarify your cooking process.
How do I make my Chili Mac spicier?
You can add more chili seasoning or include diced jalapeños for extra heat. Adjust according to your taste preferences!
Can I substitute ground beef in Chili Mac?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken works well as substitutes and keeps the dish lighter while maintaining flavor.
What should I serve with Chili Mac?
Chili Mac pairs well with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. You could also add sour cream on top for added creaminess.
How long does it take to prepare Chili Mac?
The prep time is about 15 minutes, and total cooking time is around 45 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Can I customize my Chili Mac recipe?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like corn or zucchini, swap out beans, or use different types of cheese based on what you have on hand.
Final Thoughts
Chili Mac is a delightful blend of flavors that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. It’s versatile enough for gatherings or cozy family dinners. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients!
Chili Mac
Chili Mac is the ultimate comfort food that combines the rich flavors of hearty chili with creamy macaroni and cheese. Perfect for potlucks, game days, or cozy family dinners, this dish is both satisfying and delicious. With a blend of savory spices, ground beef, and melted cheddar cheese, every bite is a delightful experience. Plus, it’s quick to prepare—ready in just an hour—making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, Chili Mac is sure to please everyone at the table!
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
- 1 small onion (diced)
- ½ cup bell pepper (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (diced)
- 2 cups macaroni (uncooked)
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 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
- 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
- Fresh Parsley
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat; drain excess fat.
- Sauté onions, bell peppers, and garlic until softened.
- Add chili seasoning mix, tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and kidney beans; simmer for 10 minutes.
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain.
- Make the cheese sauce by melting butter, whisking in flour, and gradually adding heavy cream and milk until thickened.
- Combine cooked macaroni with the chili mixture and cheese sauce; stir until well mixed.
- Mix in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For added spice, include diced jalapeños or extra chili seasoning. Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Customize with vegetables like corn or zucchini for added nutrition.
