Chili Mac

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that combines two beloved classics, this Chili Mac recipe is just what you need! It’s a delightful blend of hearty chili and creamy macaroni and cheese, creating a dish that warms the heart. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this dish truly shines. Plus, it’s perfect for game day celebrations, ensuring everyone will leave satisfied.

What makes this Chili Mac special is its comforting flavors and easy preparation. You’ll find that it’s not only delicious but also budget-friendly and great for feeding a crowd. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it will become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this meal even on your busiest days.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy goodness mixed with flavorful chili!
• Make-Ahead Delight: Prep it in advance and warm it up when you’re ready to eat—perfect for potlucks or meal prep.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use what you have on hand! Customize the recipe with your favorite veggies or beans.
• Satisfying Flavor: The combination of spices and creamy cheese creates a dish that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s take a look at the simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to make this amazing Chili Mac. These items are easy to find and pack a flavor punch!

For the Chili

• 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)

For Garnish

• Fresh Parsley

Variations

One of the best things about this Chili Mac recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to experiment with these variations to suit your taste.

• Swap the protein: Try ground turkey or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some corn, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
• Make it spicy: If you like heat, add diced jalapeños or extra hot sauce to kick up the spice level.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute with coconut milk and dairy-free cheese for a delicious vegan twist.

How to Make Chili Mac

Step 1: Cook the Beef

Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. This step is crucial as it adds depth of flavor to your dish. Once cooked through, drain any excess fat before adding in other ingredients.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté until they are soft—about 3-4 minutes. This helps develop sweetness in the onions and enhances overall flavor.

Step 3: Mix in Seasonings

Stir in your chili seasoning mix along with tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and kidney beans. Bring everything to a simmer and let those flavors meld together for about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In another saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth, then gradually add heavy cream followed by milk while continuing to whisk until thickened. Stir in mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and hot sauce for added depth.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once your cheese sauce has thickened nicely, pour it over cooked macaroni in a large baking dish followed by the chili mixture. Give everything a good stir so every bite gets that delightful flavor combo.

Step 6: Add Cheese Topping

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of your Chili Mac. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

And there you have it—a warm bowl of comfort food that brings joy to any table! Enjoy your delicious Chili Mac with friends and family!

Pro Tips for Making Chili Mac

Making Chili Mac is a breeze, and with these helpful tips, you can elevate your dish even further!

• Use high-quality cheese – Opting for freshly shredded cheddar instead of pre-packaged cheese will melt better and provide a creamier texture to your dish.
• Adjust the spice level – If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of hot sauce and chili seasoning. You can always add more at the end if desired!
• Cook pasta al dente – Cooking the macaroni just until firm ensures it retains its shape when mixed with the chili, preventing mushy pasta in your final dish.
• Let it rest before serving – Allowing your Chili Mac to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking helps improve the flavors as they meld together beautifully.
• Consider adding veggies – Sneak in some extra nutrition by adding diced zucchini or spinach to the chili mix. They’ll cook down nicely while adding flavor and color.

How to Serve Chili Mac

Serving up your delicious Chili Mac can be just as fun as making it! Here are some creative ideas to make your meal shine.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley – A sprinkle of parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, enhancing both the look and taste of your dish.
• Sliced Jalapeños – If you’re looking for an extra kick, fresh jalapeños offer a spicy crunch that complements the creamy mac and hearty chili perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread – This slightly sweet bread pairs wonderfully with chili dishes. Its fluffy texture soaks up the flavors beautifully!
• Garden Salad – A crisp salad filled with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of Chili Mac.
• Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious green element that balances out this hearty meal without overwhelming it.
• Garlic Breadsticks – These warm, buttery sticks are perfect for dipping into any leftover chili sauce or simply enjoying on the side.

Enjoy bringing this delightful Chili Mac recipe to life! Whether it’s family dinner night or game day, it’s sure to be a hit!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chili Mac and Cheese is not just a delicious meal, but it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it for later, making busy weeknights a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy within 3 to 4 days for the best flavor and freshness.
• Ensure the Chili Mac is completely cooled before sealing the container.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, heat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Chili Mac.

Can I use a different type of meat in my Chili Mac?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes for ground beef. Just adjust cooking times as necessary.

Is this Chili Mac suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Chili Mac is perfect for meal prep. It stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it an easy option for busy nights.

How spicy is this Chili Mac?

The level of spiciness can easily be adjusted by adding less hot sauce or using mild chili seasoning. Feel free to customize it according to your taste!

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Certainly! Replace the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

This Chili Mac recipe is truly special—it combines hearty flavors with creamy comfort that everyone will love. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or game days. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experience; I’d love to hear how yours turns out!