Chili Mac

This Chili Mac and Cheese recipe combines hearty homemade chili with creamy macaroni and cheese, making it a fantastic meal for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a potluck, preparing a game day feast, or just need a comforting dinner idea, this dish is sure to impress. The unique blend of flavors and textures sets it apart from standard mac and cheese, ensuring everyone will enjoy each bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty & Satisfying: This dish packs a punch with ground beef and kidney beans, providing plenty of protein and flavor.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or as a quick weeknight meal that pleases picky eaters.
• Creamy Goodness: The combination of cheddar cheese and heavy cream creates a rich and decadent sauce that coats the macaroni perfectly.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can streamline your cooking process. Here’s what you need to bring this Chili Mac to life!

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the macaroni and cooking the chili simultaneously without overflow.
• Cooking spoon: A sturdy spoon makes stirring easy and prevents clumps while mixing ingredients.

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
• 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 pot over medium heat:
1. Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
2. Stir in the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic; sauté until softened.
3. Mix in the chili seasoning, tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and kidney beans.
4. Let simmer for about 15 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Pasta

While the chili simmers:
1. In another pot, boil water and cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain the macaroni once cooked.

Step 3: Create the Cheese Sauce

In a separate saucepan:
1. Melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add flour to create a roux; stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes.
3. Slowly whisk in heavy cream and milk until smooth; bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Stir in mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, hot sauce, and cheddar cheese until melted.

Step 4: Combine Everything Together

Once both components are ready:
1. Mix the cooked macaroni into the chili mixture.
2. Pour the cheese sauce over everything; stir until well combined.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot! Enjoy your delicious Chili Mac!

How to Serve Chili Mac

Chili Mac is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, feeding your family, or just indulging in a cozy night at home, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Toppings

• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spice of the chili.
• Chopped Green Onions – Fresh green onions provide a crunchy texture and bright flavor.
• Shredded Lettuce – Sprinkle some shredded lettuce for added freshness and color.
• Sliced Jalapeños – For those who enjoy heat, add sliced jalapeños on top for an extra kick.

As a Casserole

• Baked Chili Mac – After mixing everything, transfer it to a baking dish, top it with cheese, and bake until bubbly for a comforting casserole.

Paired with Bread

• Garlic Bread – Serve alongside garlic bread for an easy-to-make side that complements the flavors of Chili Mac beautifully.
• Cornbread – Sweet cornbread pairs well with the savory elements of this dish, providing a delightful contrast in flavors.

How to Perfect Chili Mac

To make your Chili Mac truly extraordinary, here are some tips to consider while preparing this beloved dish.

• Bold flavors – Use freshly minced garlic and sauté it until fragrant to enhance the overall taste of your Chili Mac.
• Customize seasoning – Adjust the chili seasoning mix based on your preference; you can even create your own blend using cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper for a unique twist.
• Creamy texture – Ensure you whisk the heavy cream and milk together thoroughly before adding them to achieve a smooth consistency in your cheese sauce.
• Cook pasta al dente – Cook the macaroni just until it’s al dente, as it will absorb some liquid during baking or serving with chili.

Best Side Dishes for Chili Mac

Pairing side dishes with Chili Mac can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement its rich flavors.

1. Garlic Bread – This classic side is easy to prepare and perfect for soaking up any leftover chili sauce.
2. Caesar Salad – A fresh Caesar salad adds crispness and balances out the richness of the mac and cheese.
3. Coleslaw – The tangy crunch of coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty Chili Mac.
4. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn on the cob is not only delicious but also adds a fun element to your meal.
5. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli offers nutrients and vibrant color alongside your main dish.
6. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges make for an excellent finger food option that pairs well with creamy meals like Chili Mac.
7. Mixed Veggie Stir-Fry – A quick stir-fry of seasonal vegetables can brighten up your plate and add more nutrition.
8. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad provides sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory flavors of Chili Mac.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Chili Mac is a delicious and comforting dish, but there are common mistakes to watch for when making it.

• Not browning the meat properly: Take the time to brown the ground beef thoroughly. This adds depth of flavor to your Chili Mac.
• Ignoring seasoning levels: Adjust the chili seasoning mix according to taste. Too little can make it bland, while too much can overpower the dish.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cook the macaroni just until al dente. It will continue to cook in the oven, so avoid mushy pasta.
• Forgetting to drain canned ingredients: Always drain canned beans and tomatoes before adding them. This prevents excess liquid that can make your dish watery.
• Skipping the cheese layer: Don’t forget to add cheese both in the mix and as a topping. It enhances creaminess and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Chili Mac

• Freeze Chili Mac in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• It can be stored for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Chili Mac

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet with a splash of broth or milk over medium heat, stirring frequently until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Chili Mac.

What is Chili Mac?

Chili Mac is a comforting dish that combines hearty chili with creamy macaroni and cheese, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.

Can I customize my Chili Mac?

Yes! You can add vegetables like corn or zucchini, or swap out ground beef for turkey or chicken based on your preference.

How do I make Chili Mac vegetarian?

Replace ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative, 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 fridge before baking. Just add extra baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Final Thoughts

Chili Mac is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to suit any taste. Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients or spices. Whether it’s for dinner, game day, or potluck gatherings, this dish is sure to please everyone!