Chili Mac

This Chili Mac recipe combines hearty homemade chili with creamy macaroni and cheese, creating a comforting dish perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or game day gatherings. Its rich flavors and satisfying texture make it an all-time favorite that will please even the pickiest of eaters. Dive into this delicious meal mashup that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delightful dish with minimal effort.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of chili and macaroni brings together the best of both worlds, ensuring every bite is packed with taste.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering with friends.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids will love the cheesy goodness mixed with savory chili, making it an excellent choice for picky eaters.
• Make-Ahead Option: This recipe is easy to prepare in advance and reheats well, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Tools and Preparation

To create this amazing Chili Mac, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking dish (if baking)

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking pasta and combining ingredients evenly.
• Skillet: Great for browning the ground beef and sautéing vegetables before mixing them into the chili.
• Mixing spoon: Helps combine ingredients thoroughly for a well-blended flavor.
• Baking dish: Useful if you decide to bake this Chili Mac for a crispy top layer.

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 (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 skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as you go.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Once the beef is cooked through, add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until softened.

Step 3: Combine Chili Ingredients

Stir in the chili seasoning mix, tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and kidney beans. Allow it to simmer for about 10-15 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook your macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.

Step 5: Make Cheese Sauce

In another saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in heavy cream and milk until thickened. Add mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, hot sauce, and cheese—stir until melted.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Drain your macaroni and add it to the chili mixture alongside the cheese sauce. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 7: Serve or Bake

You can serve it straight from the pot or transfer it to a baking dish to bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes if you want a crispy top.

Enjoy your delicious Chili Mac!

How to Serve Chili Mac

Chili Mac is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in several ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

For Game Day

• Serve Chili Mac in individual bowls for easy snacking while watching the game.
• Top with extra cheese and jalapeños for a spicy kick.

At a Potluck

• Bring a large baking dish of Chili Mac to share. It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
• Garnish with fresh parsley to add color and freshness.

Family Dinner

• Pair Chili Mac with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
• Offer sides of sour cream and chopped green onions for customization.

Freezer Meals

• Portion leftover Chili Mac into freezer-safe containers for quick meals later.
• Reheat in the oven or microwave when you need a fast dinner solution.

How to Perfect Chili Mac

Perfecting your Chili Mac is all about timing and flavor balance. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use quality meat: Choose 80% lean ground beef for a rich flavor without excess grease.
• Homemade seasoning: Consider making your own chili seasoning mix to control spice levels and flavors.
• Cook pasta al dente: This prevents the macaroni from becoming mushy once mixed with the chili.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding avocado, cilantro, or crushed tortilla chips for extra texture and taste.
• Adjust creaminess: If you prefer it creamier, increase the amount of heavy cream or cheddar cheese used.

Best Side Dishes for Chili Mac

Chili Mac pairs well with various side dishes. These options will complement your meal perfectly while keeping it simple.

1. Cornbread: Sweet and buttery cornbread makes an excellent accompaniment to balance the savory flavors of Chili Mac.
2. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up any delicious sauce left on your plate.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness, creating a nice contrast to the hearty dish.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides nutrients without overpowering the main dish’s flavors.
5. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad dressed with vinaigrette adds brightness and helps cut through the richness of the mac and cheese.
6. Baked Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are fun to eat alongside Chili Mac, adding a satisfying crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chili Mac, it’s easy to overlook some details that can impact the final dish. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the seasoning: Many people forget to properly season their chili mac. Ensure you use a good chili seasoning mix and taste as you go for the best flavor.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the macaroni too long can lead to mushy results. Aim for al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
• Not draining canned ingredients: Failing to drain kidney beans or canned tomatoes can make the dish too watery. Always drain and rinse these ingredients before adding them.
• Using low-quality cheese: Using pre-shredded cheese can result in a less creamy texture. Opt for freshly grated cheese for better melting and flavor.
• Neglecting garnishes: While optional, fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness. Don’t skip this simple step for added appeal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chili Mac in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chili Mac

• Use a freezer-safe container for storage.
• Chili Mac can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chili Mac

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a serving in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a saucepan, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chili Mac:

What is Chili Mac?

Chili Mac is a delicious combination of hearty chili and creamy macaroni and cheese, creating a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Can I make Chili Mac ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the components ahead of time and combine them when ready to serve, or assemble and refrigerate before baking.

How do I customize my Chili Mac?

Feel free to add vegetables like corn or zucchini, or swap different types of beans based on your preference. The options are endless!

Is there a vegetarian option for Chili Mac?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or simply increase the number of beans and veggies for extra heartiness.

Final Thoughts

Chili Mac is not just a meal; it’s a comforting mashup that brings together flavors everyone loves. Whether you’re serving it at dinner, taking it to a potluck, or enjoying it during game day, this recipe offers plenty of room for customization. Try adding your favorite toppings or adjusting spices to suit your taste!