Chili Mac

This Chili Mac recipe is a delicious blend of hearty homemade chili and creamy macaroni and cheese. It’s perfect for dinner, potlucks, or game day gatherings. With its comforting flavors and satisfying ingredients, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this meal in no time.
• Flavorful Combination: The rich taste of chili complements the creamy mac and cheese, creating a unique flavor experience.
• Great for Sharing: Serving 18 cups makes it ideal for large gatherings or family dinners.
• Versatile Dish: Customize with your favorite toppings or sides for a personal touch that suits everyone’s taste.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable ingredients, this recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: This is where you’ll combine all your ingredients for cooking the chili mac evenly.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring everything blends well together.

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Ingredients

To prepare this delectable Chili Mac, gather 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

• 2 cups macaroni (uncooked)

For the Cheese Sauce

• 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

Topping

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

How to Make Chili Mac

Step 1: Cook the Beef Mixture

In a large pot over medium heat, add ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks.

Step 2: Add Vegetables and Seasoning

Once the beef is browned:
1. Stir in diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
2. Cook until vegetables are soft.
3. Add chili seasoning mix, tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and kidney beans.
4. Bring to a simmer.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In another saucepan:
1. Melt butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in flour until smooth.
3. Gradually add heavy cream and milk while whisking constantly until thickened.
4. Stir in mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and hot sauce.

Step 4: Combine Pasta with Chili

Add uncooked macaroni to the beef mixture:
1. Stir until combined.
2. Cover and cook according to macaroni package instructions until al dente.

Step 5: Mix in Cheese

Remove from heat:
– Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm to enjoy this comforting Chili Mac!

How to Serve Chili Mac

Chili Mac is a versatile dish that can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you are hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your Chili Mac experience.

Classic Serving

• Serve it warm in a bowl, topped with shredded cheese and fresh parsley for a colorful presentation.

With a Side Salad

• Pair your Chili Mac with a light garden salad. The freshness of the greens balances the hearty flavors.

Topped with Jalapeños

• For those who enjoy some heat, add sliced jalapeños on top. It adds a spicy kick that enhances the flavor.

Cornbread on the Side

• Enjoy Chili Mac with warm cornbread. The sweetness of the cornbread complements the savory chili perfectly.

Garnish with Sour Cream

• A dollop of sour cream on top can add creaminess and contrast to the spiciness of the dish.

Accompanied by Tortilla Chips

• Serve Chili Mac alongside crunchy tortilla chips for added texture and fun crunch.

How to Perfect Chili Mac

Creating the perfect Chili Mac requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Choose Quality Meat: Use fresh ground beef for better flavor and texture in your chili.
• Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Make sure to include chili seasoning for that authentic taste; consider making your own for an extra kick.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy when mixed with the chili.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions and peppers bring vibrant flavors compared to their canned counterparts.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize your spice level by modifying hot sauce or adding spices according to taste.
• Let it Rest: Allowing your Chili Mac to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Chili Mac

Pairing side dishes with Chili Mac can enhance your meal and provide variety. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice, garlic bread brings warmth and flavor, perfect for soaking up any leftover chili sauce.

2. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness, balancing out the richness of the Chili Mac.

3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition, complementing the main dish wonderfully.

4. Caesar Salad
   The creamy Caesar dressing offers a different flavor profile that pairs well with spicy dishes like Chili Mac.

5. Sweet Potato Fries
   Crispy sweet potato fries provide sweetness that contrasts nicely against the savory flavors of the mac and cheese.

6. Baked Beans
   Sweet and savory baked beans create a hearty side that goes hand-in-hand with chili-based meals.

7. Corn on the Cob
   Grilled or boiled corn adds a fun touch and is great for summer gatherings alongside Chili Mac.

8. Stuffed Peppers
   These can be filled with rice, beans, or vegetables, providing additional nutrients while keeping in line with your meal theme.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Chili Mac even better. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Bold seasoning: Not using enough seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to follow the recommended chili seasoning mix or create your own for a flavor boost.
• Bold pasta cooking: Overcooking the macaroni can result in mushy pasta. Cook it just until al dente, as it will continue cooking when mixed with the chili.
• Bold cheese melting: Adding cheese too early during cooking can cause it to clump. Gradually stir it in at the end for a smooth, creamy texture.
• Bold bean rinsing: Skipping the rinsing step for canned beans can make your dish too salty. Always rinse and drain them before adding to your recipe.
• Bold broth choice: Using low-quality broth can impact the overall taste of your Chili Mac. Opt for a good-quality chicken or beef broth for maximum flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chili Mac in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Chili Mac

• Freeze Chili Mac in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months. Make sure to label and date your container.

Reheating Chili Mac

• Bold oven method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Bold microwave method: Heat individual portions on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Bold stovetop method: Reheat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed to loosen it up.

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 comforting dish perfect for any meal.

Can I customize my Chili Mac?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like corn or zucchini, use different types of cheese, or spice it up with extra hot sauce.

How do I make my Chili Mac spicier?

To add heat, include more chili powder, diced jalapeños, or crushed red pepper flakes when cooking.

Can I use another type of meat instead of beef?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or lamb if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How long does it take to prepare Chili Mac?

The total time for preparing and cooking this dish is about 60 minutes, making it a convenient option for busy nights.

Final Thoughts

This Chili Mac recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that appeals to many tastes. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients easily, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Give this comforting dish a try—you won’t be disappointed!