Chili Mac

This Chili Mac and Cheese recipe is a delightful combination of hearty homemade chili and creamy macaroni and cheese. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or game day, this dish offers a unique twist that everyone will love. The robust flavors of the chili meld beautifully with the comforting pasta, creating a satisfying meal that can easily feed a crowd.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish without hassle.
• Flavorful Fusion: The blend of spicy chili and creamy cheese creates a mouthwatering experience that delights your taste buds.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this Chili Mac fits perfectly on any table.
• Feeds a Crowd: This recipe makes a generous amount, perfect for serving large families or entertaining guests.
• Kid-Friendly: Its cheesy goodness and fun texture make it appealing to children and picky eaters alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Chili Mac, gather the essential tools to help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking both the chili and the pasta simultaneously, saving time and effort.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot, ensuring even cooking.
• Measuring cups: Ensure accuracy in your ingredients for consistent flavor every time.

Ingredients

For this delicious Chili Mac recipe, you will 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 Cheese Sauce

• 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 and Vegetables

In a large pot over medium heat:
1. Add ground beef and cook until browned.
2. Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Stir in diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic; cook until softened.

Step 2: Add Chili Ingredients

Once the vegetables are tender:
1. Mix in chili seasoning, tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and kidney beans.
2. Bring to a simmer; reduce heat and let it cook for about 20 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Macaroni

In another pot:
1. Boil water and add macaroni; cook until al dente according to package instructions.
2. Drain macaroni once cooked.

Step 4: Prepare Cheese Sauce

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

Step 5: Combine Everything

In your large pot with the chili:
1. Stir in cooked macaroni until well combined.
2. Simmer together for an additional 5 minutes to meld flavors.

Step 6: Serve

Spoon servings into bowls:
1. Garnish with fresh parsley before enjoying this comforting Chili Mac!

How to Serve Chili Mac

Chili Mac is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy family dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

For a Classic Comfort Meal

• Topped with Cheese: Sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese on top and broil until bubbly.
• With Fresh Herbs: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of flavor.

As a Party Dish

• In Individual Bowls: Serve in small bowls for easy portioning at gatherings.
• With Tortilla Chips: Provide tortilla chips on the side for scooping; it adds crunch and fun.

For Kid-Friendly Options

• Add Diced Vegetables: Mix in diced carrots or zucchini to sneak in some veggies.
• Serve with Hot Dogs: Slice hot dogs into the Chili Mac for an extra kid-friendly twist.

As Leftovers

• In Quesadillas: Use leftover Chili Mac as filling for quesadillas, grilled until crispy.
• With Rice: Serve over rice for a hearty meal that stretches the leftovers further.

How to Perfect Chili Mac

Perfecting Chili Mac involves small tweaks that can make a big difference in flavor and texture. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Bold seasoning: Adjust the chili seasoning to your taste; don’t hesitate to add more if you like it spicy.
• Creamy texture: For extra creaminess, mix in more heavy cream or cream cheese before serving.
• Cook pasta perfectly: Cook macaroni just until al dente, as it will continue cooking when mixed with the chili.
• Layer flavors: Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant before adding other ingredients for depth of flavor.
• Use quality cheese: Opt for fresh, block cheese instead of pre-shredded varieties for better melting properties.

Best Side Dishes for Chili Mac

Pairing side dishes with Chili Mac can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: This classic side complements the richness of Chili Mac perfectly.
2. Caesar Salad: A crunchy salad adds freshness and balances the heaviness of the main dish.
3. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of Chili Mac.
4. Steamed Broccoli: A simple steamed vegetable that adds color and nutrition to your plate.
5. Coleslaw: The crispness of coleslaw provides a great contrast to the creamy texture of Chili Mac.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add warmth and vibrant flavors alongside your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chili Mac, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common errors and how to avoid them.

• Bold seasoning: Skipping the seasoning can lead to bland Chili Mac. Always taste and adjust your spices for the best flavor.
• Bold overcooking pasta: Cooking macaroni too long can make it mushy. Cook it al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven.
• Bold ignoring cheese quality: Using low-quality cheese can affect the creaminess. Opt for a good quality cheddar for a rich flavor.
• Bold neglecting to drain beans: Not draining canned beans can add excess liquid. Always drain and rinse for better texture.
• Bold forgetting to mix well: Failing to mix all ingredients thoroughly may result in uneven flavors. Ensure you combine everything evenly before baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-5 days for best freshness.

Freezing Chili Mac

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chili Mac

• Bold Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Bold Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Bold Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chili Mac.

Can I use turkey instead of beef for Chili Mac?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute that works well without sacrificing flavor.

What types of cheese are best for Chili Mac?

Cheddar is traditional, but you can also mix in Monterey Jack or pepper jack for extra flavor.

How do I make Chili Mac vegetarian?

You can replace the ground beef with mushrooms or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I prepare Chili Mac ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.

Final Thoughts

Chili Mac is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Its versatility means you can customize it with your favorite ingredients, making each batch unique. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious flavors!