Chili Mac

This Chili Mac combines hearty homemade chili with creamy macaroni and cheese, creating a delicious meal perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or game day gatherings. Its rich flavors and comforting textures make it an ideal choice for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish won’t disappoint!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this comforting dish ready in no time.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of chili and cheesy macaroni creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that everyone will adore.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect as a main course or as a side dish, this Chili Mac fits seamlessly into various dining scenarios.
• Crowd Pleaser: With its hearty ingredients, this recipe is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
• Make Ahead Option: You can easily prepare it in advance and reheat for a quick meal during busy days.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, having the right tools is essential. Below are the key items you’ll need to whip up this flavorful Chili Mac.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: This allows for even cooking and provides ample space for all ingredients.
• Cutting board: Essential for safely chopping vegetables and prepping your ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accuracy in measurements for perfect results every time.

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 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)

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley

How to Make Chili Mac

Step 1: Cook the Beef

Start by heating your large pot over medium heat.
1. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon.
2. Cook until browned and fully cooked through.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Once the beef is cooked:
1. Add diced onions, bell peppers, and garlic to the pot.
2. Sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 3: Add Chili Ingredients

Next, stir in:
1. The chili seasoning mix, tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juice, chicken broth, and kidney beans.
2. Bring this mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare the Macaroni Cheese Sauce

In a separate saucepan:
1. Melt butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in flour until smooth; cook for about 1 minute.
3. Gradually add heavy cream and milk while whisking continuously until thickened.

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

Add cooked macaroni to the chili mixture:
1. Stir in the cheese sauce along with mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and hot sauce.
2. Mix well until everything is combined and heated through.

Step 6: Serve Your Chili Mac

Finally:
1. Spoon into bowls or onto plates.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delicious bowl of Chili Mac!

How to Serve Chili Mac

Chili Mac is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to suit any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner with friends or preparing for game day, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Family Style

• Serve the Chili Mac in a large casserole dish, allowing everyone to help themselves. This creates a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Individual Bowls

• Portion the Chili Mac into individual bowls for a more formal presentation. Top each bowl with extra cheese and fresh parsley for added flavor.

With Toppings Bar

• Set up a toppings bar with options like diced onions, sliced jalapeños, sour cream, and shredded cheese. This allows guests to customize their Chili Mac to their liking.

Over Chips

• Serve the Chili Mac over tortilla chips to create a fun nacho-style dish. This is perfect for parties and adds an exciting crunch.

As a Stuffed Pepper

• Hollow out bell peppers and fill them with Chili Mac. Bake them until the peppers are tender for a healthy twist on this classic dish.

How to Perfect Chili Mac

To achieve the best Chili Mac, consider these helpful tips:

• Use quality meat: Opt for lean ground beef (80% lean) for a rich flavor without excess grease.
• Homemade seasoning: Create your own chili seasoning mix using spices like cumin, paprika, and garlic powder for a fresher taste.
• Cook pasta al dente: Boil the macaroni until just tender, as it will continue cooking in the sauce.
• Adjust creaminess: Alter the amount of heavy cream and milk based on your desired creaminess level.
• Let it rest: Allow the Chili Mac to sit for 5–10 minutes after cooking. This helps flavors meld together and makes serving easier.
• Garnish generously: Don’t forget fresh parsley or cilantro as they add color and freshness to every bowl.

Best Side Dishes for Chili Mac

Pairing side dishes with your Chili Mac can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic addition that complements the creamy texture of Chili Mac perfectly.

2. Cornbread
   Sweet cornbread balances the savory flavors of the chili in this dish.

3. Coleslaw
   A refreshing slaw adds crunch and contrast, making it an ideal side for this hearty meal.

4. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli provides nutrients while adding a pop of color to your plate.

5. Mixed Green Salad
   A simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette offers brightness and freshness alongside the rich Chili Mac.

6. Baked Potatoes
   Fluffy baked potatoes can serve as an alternative base or side, allowing guests to load them with leftover chili mixture if desired.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chili Mac, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your dish significantly.

• Bold seasoning choices: Skipping the chili seasoning mix or using an insufficient amount can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust to achieve the perfect spice level.
• Bold ingredient quality: Using low-quality cheese may result in a subpar sauce. Opt for fresh, good-quality cheddar for the best creamy texture.
• Bold cooking time: Overcooking the macaroni will make it mushy and unappetizing. Cook pasta until it’s just al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
• Bold broth options: Not using broth or water when making the chili can lead to dryness. Always add enough liquid to keep your chili rich and flavorful.
• Bold serving style: Forgetting to garnish can make your Chili Mac look uninviting. A sprinkle of fresh parsley can add color and vitality.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Chili Mac

• For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• Chili Mac can be kept frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Chili Mac

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between, until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat while stirring occasionally; add a splash of milk if needed for creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chili Mac?

Chili Mac is a comforting dish that combines hearty chili with macaroni and cheese, creating a satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.

How do I customize my Chili Mac?

You can customize your Chili Mac by adding different proteins like turkey or lamb, or by including vegetables such as corn or zucchini for extra nutrition.

Can I make Chili Mac ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare Chili Mac ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat before serving.

What goes well with Chili Mac?

Chili Mac pairs nicely with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or cornbread for a complete meal experience.

How do I thicken my Chili Mac sauce?

To thicken the sauce, consider adding more cheese or a little cornstarch mixed with water for a quick fix that enhances creaminess.

Final Thoughts

This Chili Mac recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that is sure to please everyone at your table. It’s not just easy to make but also versatile; feel free to adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand. Don’t hesitate to try this comforting dish today!