Chili Mac

This Chili Mac recipe combines hearty homemade chili with creamy macaroni and cheese, creating a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a potluck, planning game day snacks, or simply looking for a delicious dinner idea, this dish stands out with its rich flavors and delightful textures. Easy to prepare and sure to please both kids and adults alike, Chili Mac is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Satisfying: The combination of ground beef and beans makes this dish filling enough to be a meal on its own.
• Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delightful dish ready in just about an hour.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for family dinners or as a crowd-pleaser at potlucks and parties.
• Kid-Friendly Flavor: Creamy cheddar cheese melds perfectly with the robust chili, making it appealing to even the pickiest eaters.
• One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes to wash means more time to enjoy your meal with loved ones!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools is essential. Below are some tools you’ll need for this Chili Mac recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking the chili and pasta together, ensuring even heating.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements help achieve the best flavor balance.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Chili Mac, gather the following 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 and Vegetables

Start by heating your large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef, diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the vegetables are soft.

Step 2: Add Seasonings

Once cooked, stir in the chili seasoning mix, tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juices, chicken broth, and kidney beans. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to form a roux, cooking for about 1 minute until golden. Gradually whisk in heavy cream and milk until smooth. Add mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and hot sauce.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Pour the cheese sauce into the chili mixture along with the uncooked macaroni. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 5: Simmer Until Cooked

Cover and simmer on low heat for about 20–25 minutes until the macaroni is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Add Cheese

Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm.

Enjoy your flavorful Chili Mac!

How to Serve Chili Mac

Chili Mac is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or a family dinner, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Fresh Toppings

• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream adds a cool creaminess that balances the spice.
• Shredded Lettuce – Fresh lettuce provides a crunchy texture and brightens the dish.
• Sliced Jalapeños – For those who love heat, fresh jalapeños offer an extra kick.
• Chopped Green Onions – These add a mild onion flavor and vibrant color.

As a Burrito Bowl

• Over Rice – Serve your Chili Mac over a bed of rice for added texture and heartiness.
• With Tortilla Chips – Layer Chili Mac with chips for a fun, crunchy twist.

In Individual Portions

• In Mini Casserole Dishes – Bake individual servings for a charming presentation at gatherings.
• In Mason Jars – Perfect for picnics or potlucks, serve Chili Mac in mason jars for easy transport.

How to Perfect Chili Mac

Creating the ultimate Chili Mac requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is always a hit.

• Bold Seasoning – Use homemade chili seasoning for enhanced flavor. Adjust spices according to your preference for heat.
• Cheese Quality Matters – Opt for freshly shredded cheese over pre-packaged varieties for better melting and flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta – Cook macaroni just until al dente. It will continue cooking when mixed with the hot chili.
• Add More Veggies – Incorporate chopped zucchini or corn into your chili mix for added nutrition and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Chili Mac

Pairing side dishes with Chili Mac can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread complements the creamy pasta wonderfully and is perfect for soaking up any sauce.
2. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the richness of the Chili Mac.
3. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread is a classic pairing that harmonizes well with spicy flavors.
4. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli provides color and nutrients, making it a healthy side choice.
5. Caesar Salad – A fresh Caesar salad offers crisp greens and dressing that contrasts with the hearty main dish.
6. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and variety to your meal while being deliciously caramelized.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing Chili Mac. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to properly season your chili can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust the spices as you cook.

• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the macaroni too long can result in mushy noodles. Follow the package instructions and consider cooking them al dente since they will continue cooking in the chili.

• Not letting it simmer: Rushing the simmering process can prevent flavors from developing fully. Allow your chili mac to simmer for at least 20 minutes for a richer taste.

• Using low-quality cheese: Using pre-shredded cheese can lead to a grainy texture due to added anti-caking agents. Opt for freshly shredded cheese for a creamier finish.

• Ignoring the broth ratio: Adding too much or too little broth can affect the consistency of your dish. Stick to the recommended amounts and adjust based on preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Chili Mac can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chili Mac

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Chili Mac

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each until hot.

• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if it seems dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Chili Mac that may help you perfect your dish.

What is Chili Mac?

Chili Mac is a comforting dish that combines homemade chili with creamy macaroni and cheese, merging two favorites into one hearty meal.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute! It will give you a lighter version of this delicious Chili Mac without sacrificing flavor.

How can I customize my Chili Mac?

You can add vegetables like corn or zucchini, swap beans, or use different types of cheese based on your preferences to personalize your Chili Mac!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This Chili Mac holds up well for meal prep and is perfect for lunches throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Chili Mac recipe combines rich flavors and creamy textures that appeal to all ages. It’s versatile enough for family dinners, potlucks, or game day gatherings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients!