Chili Mac

This Chili Mac recipe combines the comforting flavors of homemade chili with the creamy richness of macaroni and cheese. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner, a potluck gathering, or game day celebrations. The melding of hearty ingredients creates a filling dish that everyone will love, making it an excellent choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and quick prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of chili spices and cheesy goodness makes every bite delicious.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or as a side at gatherings; it fits in anywhere!
• Family Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy this comforting meal.
• Great for Leftovers: This Chili Mac tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.

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Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making this delicious Chili Mac, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the macaroni and cooking the chili mixture together efficiently.
• Skillet: Perfect for browning the ground beef and sautéing vegetables evenly.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring even mixing.

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)

Garnish

• Fresh Parsley (to garnish)

How to Make Chili Mac

Step 1: Cook the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Stir in the chili seasoning mix, tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and kidney beans. Let simmer for about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare Macaroni

While the chili simmers, boil water in a large pot. Add macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

Step 5: Make Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add heavy cream and milk while whisking continuously until thickened.

Step 6: Mix Everything Together

Combine cooked macaroni with the chili mixture and cheese sauce in a large bowl or baking dish. Stir well until everything is evenly coated.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer Chili Mac to an oven-safe dish if needed and sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese on top. Bake for about 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Step 8: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm! Enjoy your delightful Chili Mac with family or friends!

How to Serve Chili Mac

Chili Mac is a versatile dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or a game day gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your Chili Mac experience.

With Toppings

• Cheddar Cheese: Sprinkle additional shredded cheddar on top for an extra cheesy bite.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy tang that complements the spices.
• Green Onions: Chopped green onions provide a fresh crunch and vibrant color.

As a Standalone Dish

• In a Bowl: Serve it hot in deep bowls for a comforting meal.
• On a Plate: For a more formal presentation, plate it with a side garnish.

Accompanied by Bread

• Garlic Bread: Pair with warm garlic bread to soak up the flavorful chili sauce.
• Cornbread: A slice of cornbread adds sweetness and texture, balancing the dish.

With Salad

• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with vinaigrette offers refreshing contrast to the hearty Chili Mac.
• Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw provides crunch and coolness, making it an ideal sidekick.

How to Perfect Chili Mac

To make your Chili Mac truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Meat: Start with good ground beef for rich flavor. Lean meat minimizes grease while still maintaining taste.
• Homemade Seasoning: Make your own chili seasoning mix for fresher flavors and to control spice levels.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Under-cook the macaroni slightly so it absorbs the chili flavors without becoming mushy during baking.
• Add Extra Veggies: Boost nutrition and flavor with diced zucchini or mushrooms mixed into the chili.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Blend different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for unique flavor variations.
• Let It Rest: Allow the Chili Mac to sit for about 10 minutes before serving; this helps thicken the sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Chili Mac

Chili Mac pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its hearty nature. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery, perfect for dipping into the chili sauce.
2. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet and crumbly, they balance out the spiciness of the dish beautifully.
3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and tangy dressing add freshness alongside your meal.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides nutrient density without overshadowing the main dish.
5. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn topped with cheese, lime, and spices enhances your meal’s flavor profile.
6. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy potatoes can be topped with sour cream and chives for added richness.
7. Jalapeño Poppers: Spicy poppers offer an exciting kick that pairs well with the hearty mac and cheese.
8. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse your palate between bites of spicy Chili Mac.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chili Mac can be simple, but avoiding common pitfalls will elevate your dish.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not using enough chili seasoning can make your dish bland. Measure carefully and taste as you go.
• Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the macaroni too long, it can become mushy. Cook it just until al dente for the best texture.
• Ignoring the cheese quality: Using low-quality cheese can affect flavor. Opt for freshly shredded cheddar for a creamy, rich result.
• Not letting it simmer: Rushing through the cooking process can lead to underdeveloped flavors. Allow your chili to simmer longer for depth in taste.
• Neglecting garnishes: Forgetting to add fresh parsley or other toppings can make your dish less appealing. A simple garnish adds color and freshness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chili Mac in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Chili Mac

• Freeze in individual portions or as a whole in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Chili Mac

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 25-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I make Chili Mac ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge before baking.

What goes well with Chili Mac?

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

How can I customize my Chili Mac?

You can add vegetables like zucchini or corn, or substitute ground beef with turkey or plant-based alternatives.

Is Chili Mac kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The creamy cheese and hearty chili appeal to kids, making it a great family dinner option.

Final Thoughts

Chili Mac is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to customize. Whether you’re serving it at home or bringing it to a potluck, this dish is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to try different ingredients or spices that cater to your taste!