Chili Mac

This Chili Mac recipe brings together the rich flavors of homemade chili and creamy macaroni and cheese, creating a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a potluck, feeding a crowd at game day, or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this meal mashup will satisfy everyone’s hunger. With its hearty ingredients and cheesy goodness, it stands out as a family favorite that is both delicious and filling.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of chili spices and creamy cheese creates a delightful contrast that tantalizes your taste buds.
• Perfect for Groups: Serving 18 cups, this recipe is ideal for big families or gatherings where everyone can enjoy a warm meal together.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap out the meat to make it your own!
• Great Leftovers: This Chili Mac tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying later.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Chili Mac efficiently, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will help streamline the process. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Perfect for boiling macaroni and simmering chili, ensuring everything cooks evenly.
• Skillet: Ideal for browning ground beef and sautéing vegetables, locking in flavor before combining with other ingredients.
• Wooden spoon: Great for mixing without scratching your cookware, providing excellent control while stirring.

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Ingredients

For this delicious Chili Mac recipe, gather the following 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 Macaroni

• 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

For the Cheese Topping

• 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
• Fresh Parsley (to garnish)

How to Make Chili Mac

Step 1: Cook the Beef Mixture

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Once the beef is browned, add diced onions, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until vegetables are softened.

Step 3: Combine Chili Ingredients

Stir in chili seasoning mix, tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juice, chicken broth, and kidney beans. Let simmer for about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Cook Macaroni

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Make Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in flour to create a roux. Gradually whisk in heavy cream and milk until smooth. Add mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and hot sauce.

Step 6: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni with chili mixture and cheese sauce. Stir until well mixed.

Step 7: Bake

Transfer the mixture into a baking dish topped with remaining cheddar cheese. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.

Step 8: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot! Enjoy your delightful 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 gathering or enjoying a cozy family dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal experience.

Casual Bowl

• Serve in individual bowls for a hearty meal that everyone can customize with their favorite toppings.

Topped with Cheese

• Add extra shredded cheddar cheese on top while it’s still hot for a gooey, cheesy finish that enhances the flavors.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with fresh parsley or cilantro to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

Accompanied by Cornbread

• Pair with warm cornbread for a classic combination that balances the richness of the Chili Mac.

As a Game Day Dish

• Serve it in a large pot during game day for a crowd-pleasing option. Provide toppings like sour cream and jalapeños on the side for personalization.

How to Perfect Chili Mac

Perfecting your Chili Mac is all about enhancing flavors and achieving the right texture. Here are some tips to get it just right:

• Choose Quality Meat: Use lean ground beef (80% lean) for better flavor without excess grease.
• Homemade Seasoning: Consider making your own chili seasoning for fresh and vibrant flavors instead of store-bought mixes.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cook macaroni slightly undercooked since it will continue cooking when mixed with the chili sauce.
• Add Broth Gradually: Stir in chicken or beef broth slowly to control consistency; you may not need all of it.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Mix different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added depth and flavor.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings based on your preference, adding more spice or salt as needed during cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Chili Mac

Pairing side dishes with Chili Mac can enhance the overall meal experience. Here’s a list of great options to complement your dish:

1. Garlic Bread
   A crunchy and buttery addition that pairs well with the creamy texture of Chili Mac.

2. Coleslaw
   A refreshing side that adds crunch and balances out the rich flavors of the main dish.

3. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli provides essential nutrients and adds a nice color contrast to your plate.

4. Garden Salad
   Toss together mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite dressing for a light accompaniment.

5. Corn on the Cob
   Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and pairs delightfully with savory Chili Mac.

6. Baked Potatoes
   Offer baked potatoes as an alternative base that guests can top with chili if they desire an even heartier option.

7. Roasted Vegetables
   A mix of roasted seasonal vegetables complements the dish beautifully while providing additional nutrition.

8. Fruit Salad
   A light fruit salad offers a refreshing end to the meal, balancing out the richness of the Chili Mac.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Chili Mac, it’s easy to overlook a few details that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Bold seasoning choices: Forgetting to taste your chili as you cook can lead to a bland dish. Always season gradually and taste along the way.
• Bold pasta timing: Adding macaroni too early can result in mushy pasta. Cook it according to package instructions before mixing it with the chili.
• Bold cheese handling: Using cold cheese can prevent it from melting properly. Let your cheese come to room temperature for optimal creaminess.
• Bold broth selection: Using low-quality broth can diminish flavor. Opt for a good quality chicken or beef broth for richer taste.
• Bold ingredient substitutions: Swapping out key ingredients without considering their role may change the texture and flavor profile of your Chili Mac.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Chili Mac can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Chili Mac

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It freezes well for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Chili Mac

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered for about 20 minutes, adding a splash of milk if needed.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring frequently until heated through, usually around 3-5 minutes total.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a bit of milk or broth if it seems dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Chili Mac that might help you while preparing this delicious meal.

What is Chili Mac?

Chili Mac is a comforting dish that combines hearty chili with creamy macaroni and cheese, creating a filling one-pot meal.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative that provides lean protein while still delivering delicious flavor.

How do I customize my Chili Mac?

Feel free to add vegetables like corn or zucchini, or spice it up with jalapeños or different types of cheese for variety!

Is Chili Mac suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and makes for easy reheating throughout the week, perfect for busy schedules.

Can I make Chili Mac vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Final Thoughts

Chili Mac is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for family dinners or potlucks. You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite veggies or using different proteins. Give this comforting dish a try—your family will love it!