Chili Mac

This Chili Mac recipe is a delightful union of hearty homemade chili and creamy macaroni and cheese. Perfect for various occasions, it serves as a great dinner idea, potluck dish, or game day comfort food. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this meal mashup will surely become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This Chili Mac comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of spices and ingredients creates a robust taste that delights the palate.
• Versatile Dish: Great for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with cost-effective ingredients, this recipe is easy on the wallet while being filling.
• Kid-Friendly: The cheesy goodness appeals to picky eaters, making it a hit with children and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious Chili Mac, you will need some essential tools. Having the right equipment helps ensure that your cooking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander (for draining beans)
• Cheese grater

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for making large batches of chili and pasta simultaneously. It allows even cooking and easy stirring.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for mixing ingredients without scratching your cookware. It provides better control while stirring.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accuracy in ingredient quantities, crucial for achieving the best flavor balance in your dish.

Ingredients

For this Chili Mac recipe, 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 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)
• Fresh Parsley (to garnish)

How to Make Chili Mac

Step 1: Cook the Beef Mixture

In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Stir in the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic into the pot with the beef. Cook until vegetables are soft.

Step 3: Incorporate Seasonings

Add the chili seasoning mix, tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juice, chicken broth, and kidney beans to the pot. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes.

Step 5: Cook Macaroni

Meanwhile, cook macaroni according to package instructions in a separate pot until al dente; drain.

Step 6: Make Cheese Sauce

In another saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth; gradually add heavy cream and milk while stirring continuously until thickened.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Once thickened, stir in mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, hot sauce, and cheese until melted. Fold in cooked macaroni with chili mixture until combined.

Step 8: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm! 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 are hosting a gathering or just want a cozy meal at home, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your Chili Mac experience.

For Game Day

• Serve Chili Mac in individual cups for easy snacking during the game. Top with extra cheese and a sprinkle of jalapeños for added flavor.

At Potlucks

• Bring your Chili Mac in a slow cooker to keep it warm. You can also add some fresh herbs on top for a pop of color and taste.

With Toppings

• Offer toppings like diced onions, shredded cheese, and sour cream on the side. This allows guests to customize their bowls according to their preferences.

As Leftovers

• Reheat leftover Chili Mac in the microwave and serve with a side salad for a quick, balanced meal. Add more cheese while reheating for extra creaminess.

Family Dinner

• Pair Chili Mac with garlic bread and steamed vegetables for a hearty family meal. The bread is perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce.

How to Perfect Chili Mac

Perfecting your Chili Mac takes just a few tips and tricks. Here’s how you can make this dish even more delightful:

• Choose quality ground beef: Opting for 80% lean ground beef gives you flavorful chili without excess grease.

• Make homemade chili seasoning: Customize your spices to match your taste preferences by creating your own chili seasoning mix.

• Cook pasta al dente: Slightly undercooking your macaroni ensures it holds its texture when mixed with the chili and cheese sauce.

• Add vegetables: Incorporate additional veggies like corn or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor complexity.

• Let it rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Chili Mac

Pairing side dishes with your Chili Mac can enhance the meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce from your bowl of Chili Mac.

2. Caesar Salad: A light Caesar salad adds crunch and freshness, balancing out the richness of the dish.

3. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread complements the spicy flavors of the chili, making it an excellent pairing.

4. Steamed Broccoli: This healthy side adds vibrant color and nutrients while offering a slight crunch against the creamy mac.

5. Coleslaw: The tangy crunch of coleslaw contrasts nicely with the warmth of Chili Mac and enhances overall texture.

6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring additional flavor and fiber, making them a wholesome addition to your plate.

7. Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips provide an enjoyable texture contrast when served alongside or on top of Chili Mac.

8. Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans with almonds add elegance and lightness, perfectly complementing this hearty dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Chili Mac to the next level. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Bold seasoning errors: Not adjusting the chili seasoning can lead to blandness. Always taste and adjust as needed during cooking.
• Bold pasta overcooking: Overcooking the macaroni can ruin the dish’s texture. Cook it until al dente since it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Bold cheese clumping: Adding shredded cheese too quickly can cause it to clump. Gradually mix in the cheese while stirring continuously for a smooth, creamy sauce.
• Bold ingredient substitutions: Using different beans or meats may alter flavors significantly. Stick with recommended ingredients for best results or choose similar alternatives.
• Bold neglecting garnishes: Skipping on garnishes can make your dish look uninviting. Fresh parsley not only enhances appearance but adds a fresh flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Chili Mac

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• Can be stored for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Chili Mac

• Bold oven method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place Chili Mac in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Bold microwave method: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Bold stovetop method: Add a splash of chicken broth in a skillet over medium heat. Stir until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about this Chili Mac recipe, here are some common inquiries answered.

What is Chili Mac?

Chili Mac is a comforting dish that combines hearty chili with creamy macaroni and cheese, creating a satisfying meal.

How do I customize my Chili Mac?

You can customize your Chili Mac by adding vegetables like corn or zucchini, or by using different types of cheese for varied flavors.

Can I make Chili Mac ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare Chili Mac ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to eat.

Is there a vegetarian version of Chili Mac?

Absolutely! Substitute ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Final Thoughts

Chili Mac is a delightful combination of two classic comfort foods that everyone loves. This recipe is versatile; feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices. Give it a try for your next family dinner or potluck!