Chili Mac

This Chili Mac recipe combines the hearty flavors of homemade chili with creamy macaroni and cheese, creating a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a potluck, cheering on your favorite team during game day, or simply looking for a delicious family dinner, this meal has you covered. With its satisfying blend of textures and flavors, Chili Mac is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of spices and cheese creates a rich and savory dish that will please everyone at the table.
• Versatile Meal Option: Serve it as a main dish or side; it’s perfect for any occasion from casual dinners to festive celebrations.
• Kid-Friendly: With cheesy goodness and familiar flavors, this Chili Mac is sure to be a hit with picky eaters.
• Makes Plenty: This recipe yields 18 cups, making it perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.

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Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather these essential tools before you start preparing your Chili Mac.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Cheese grater

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the macaroni evenly while combining all ingredients seamlessly.
• Skillet: Perfect for browning the ground beef and sautéing vegetables, adding depth to the flavor.
• Cheese grater: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties, enhancing the creaminess of your dish.

Ingredients

For this delightful Chili Mac recipe, you’ll need the following 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)

To Finish

• Fresh Parsley (to garnish)

How to Make Chili Mac

Step 1: Cook the Beef and Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Add the ground beef, onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
2. Cook until the beef is browned and vegetables are tender.
3. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Add Chili Ingredients

To the skillet with cooked beef:
1. Stir in chili seasoning mix, tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and kidney beans.
2. Bring to a simmer and let cook for about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Cook Macaroni

In another large pot:
1. Bring water to boil and add macaroni.
2. Cook according to package instructions until al dente; drain.

Step 4: Make Cheese Sauce

In the same pot used for macaroni:
1. Melt butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in flour until smooth.
3. Gradually add heavy cream and milk; cook until thickened.
4. Stir in mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and hot sauce.

Step 5: Combine Everything

To finish your Chili Mac:
1. Add cooked macaroni to cheese sauce; stir well.
2. Fold in chili mixture until evenly combined.
3. Mix in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot garnished with fresh parsley for added color and flavor! Enjoy your hearty bowl of Chili Mac!

How to Serve Chili Mac

Chili Mac is a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or a casual gathering, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal and delight your guests.

Top with Fresh Ingredients

• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the heat of the chili.
• Chopped Green Onions – Sprinkle some fresh green onions on top for a pop of color and crunch.
• Shredded Cheese – Extra melted cheese can take the dish to the next level, making it even more indulgent.

Pair with Crunchy Sides

• Tortilla Chips – Serve alongside tortilla chips for a fun crunch and extra dipping option.
• Cornbread – A slice of warm cornbread complements Chili Mac perfectly and soaks up the flavors.
• Salad – A light side salad provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty main dish.

Create a Meal Station

• Toppings Bar – Set up a toppings bar with jalapeños, olives, and avocado for guests to customize their bowls.
• Side Dishes Buffet – Allow guests to choose from various sides like coleslaw or garlic bread to pair with their Chili Mac.

How to Perfect Chili Mac

To make your Chili Mac truly stand out, keep these tips in mind. They will help you achieve the best texture and flavor.

• Use Quality Meat – Start with high-quality ground beef for rich flavor. Lean cuts work best without sacrificing taste.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente – Cook macaroni slightly less than package instructions to prevent mushiness when mixed with chili.
• Balance Spices – Adjust spices according to your taste. You can add more chili seasoning for heat or less for a milder flavor.
• Incorporate Veggies – Add extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added nutrition and texture.
• Let it Rest – Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Chili Mac

When serving Chili Mac, pairing it with delicious side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread – Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up extra chili and cheese.
2. Coleslaw – A creamy coleslaw adds freshness and crunch that contrasts nicely with the hearty Chili Mac.
3. Steamed Vegetables – Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans provide a healthy balance alongside this rich dish.
4. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn on the cob is simple yet delightful, enhancing your comfort food spread.
5. Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad works well as a side, offering heartiness without competing with the main dish.
6. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad adds brightness and sweetness, making it an excellent palate cleanser.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chili Mac can be a delightful experience, but a few common errors can lead to disappointing results.

• seasoning: Forgetting to season your chili properly can result in bland flavors. Always taste and adjust seasoning as you go.
• Using the wrong pasta: Opting for a different type of pasta can affect the texture. Stick with macaroni for the best results.
• Overcooking the macaroni: Cooking the pasta too long before adding it to the chili will make it mushy. Cook it al dente for perfect texture.
• Skipping the cheese: Neglecting to add enough cheese will leave your dish lacking creaminess. Don’t skimp on the cheddar!
• Ignoring leftovers: Not storing leftovers correctly can lead to spoilage. Use airtight containers and follow storage guidelines.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chili Mac in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chili Mac

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags, and label them with the date.
• Chili Mac can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chili Mac

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place Chili Mac in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 25 minutes or until warm.
• Microwave: Scoop portions into a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You may need to add a splash of milk for creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Chili Mac.

What is Chili Mac?

Chili Mac is a hearty dish that combines chili and macaroni and cheese. It’s comforting, filling, and perfect for family dinners.

Can I customize my Chili Mac?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like corn or zucchini, or swap out ground beef for turkey or vegetarian options.

How do I make my Chili Mac spicier?

To spice things up, try adding jalapeños or more hot sauce according to your taste preference.

What goes well with Chili Mac?

Chili Mac pairs well with cornbread, salad, or tortilla chips for added crunch and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Chili Mac recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or game days. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients! Give it a try today!