Chili Mac

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that the whole family will adore, you’ve come to the right place! This Chili Mac recipe combines the heartiness of homemade chili with creamy macaroni and cheese. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when time is tight but everyone still deserves a delicious dinner. Plus, it’s a fantastic dish to serve at family gatherings or game day parties, bringing smiles and warm bellies all around!

What makes this Chili Mac special is its blend of flavors. Each bite offers a delightful mix of spices from the chili paired with the creamy goodness of cheese. Trust me, once you make this dish, it will quickly become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy goodness, and parents appreciate the nutritious ingredients.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of chili and mac and cheese creates an irresistible taste sensation.
• Versatile Dish: Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just your family, this recipe is highly adaptable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! This Chili Mac recipe uses simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your pantry. Gather these ingredients for a hearty meal everyone will love:

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

Variations

One of the best things about this Chili Mac recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily customize it to suit your family’s taste or dietary needs.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Make it vegetarian: Replace meat with extra beans and veggies like zucchini or corn for a satisfying meatless meal.
• Add spice: If you like it hot, toss in some jalapeños or use spicy cheese!
• Change up the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack for unique flavors.

How to Make Chili Mac

Step 1: Cook the Beef

Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. This step is essential because it locks in flavor and gives your chili that rich taste we all love. Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

Add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic into the pot with the cooked beef. Sauté until they are tender—about 5 minutes. This brings out their natural sweetness and enhances your dish’s overall flavor profile.

Step 3: Stir in Seasonings

Next, stir in your chili seasoning mix along with tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and drained kidney beans. Let everything simmer together for about 10 minutes; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While your chili simmers away, cook your macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside; we want them perfectly tender but not mushy!

Step 5: Make the Cheese Sauce

In another saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and whisk in flour to create a roux—the base for our creamy cheese sauce! Gradually add heavy cream and milk while stirring constantly until thickened. Then mix in mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, hot sauce, and half of your cheddar cheese until melted.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Once both components are ready—your hearty chili and creamy mac—you’ll want to combine them! In a large bowl or pot, mix together cooked macaroni with chili before stirring in your cheese sauce until everything is well-coated.

Step 7: Serve Up Your Chili Mac!

Transfer your lovely Chili Mac into bowls or serving dishes. Top off with remaining cheddar cheese and fresh parsley for that final touch! Enjoy every delicious bite surrounded by loved ones—this dish truly brings everyone together!

Pro Tips for Making Chili Mac

Making Chili Mac is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you can ensure it’s a hit at your dinner table!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions, bell peppers, and garlic can drastically enhance the flavor of your chili. Fresh ingredients bring out vibrant flavors that dried or canned options just can’t replicate.

• Customize the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, start with half the chili seasoning mix and adjust to taste. This way, you can cater to everyone’s palate without overwhelming anyone with too much heat.

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cooking the macaroni slightly undercooked (al dente) will prevent it from becoming mushy when baked in the chili. This texture contrast is key to making every bite enjoyable!

• Experiment with Cheeses: While cheddar cheese is classic for this recipe, feel free to mix in mozzarella or pepper jack for an extra kick. Different cheeses will give your dish unique flavors and textures that everyone will love.

• Make It Ahead of Time: Chili Mac can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to two days. Simply reheat before serving; this allows flavors to meld beautifully!

How to Serve Chili Mac

Serving Chili Mac is all about presentation and complementing its rich flavors. Here’s how you can elevate your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also brings a refreshing taste that balances the richness of the dish.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop on top adds creaminess and tang, cutting through the heartiness of the chili mac perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread pairs beautifully with Chili Mac, providing a satisfying crunch and additional flavor.
• Garden Salad: A light garden salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty mac.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a bright green element and provides fiber and nutrients alongside your meal.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread complements the savory notes of Chili Mac while adding a comforting Southern touch to your dinner table.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re well on your way to hosting a memorable meal that will surely impress family and friends! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chili Mac is perfect for meal prep, making it an excellent choice for busy families or anyone looking to save time during the week. You can easily store leftovers or even prepare it in advance for a future meal!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the Chili Mac to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Portion the Chili Mac into freezer-safe containers.
• Label each container with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave in a covered bowl for about 2-3 minutes or until hot.

FAQs

Have some questions about this delicious Chili Mac? Here are a few common inquiries that might help!

Can I use a different type of pasta for Chili Mac?

Absolutely! While macaroni is traditional, any small pasta shape like shells or penne will work just fine.

How long does Chili Mac last in the fridge?

Your homemade Chili Mac can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container!

Can I make this Chili Mac ahead of time?

Yes! Chili Mac is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it in advance and store leftovers easily.

What goes well with Chili Mac?

Chili Mac pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or even topped with sliced avocado for extra creaminess!

Final Thoughts

This Chili Mac recipe is truly special because it combines comforting flavors and hearty ingredients into one satisfying dish. Whether you’re hosting friends, feeding a family, or simply enjoying a cozy night at home, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table! I hope you enjoy making this delightful dish as much as I do. Happy cooking!