Chili Mac

This Chili Mac recipe combines hearty homemade chili with creamy macaroni and cheese, making it a delightful and filling dish. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or game day gatherings, this meal mashup is sure to impress. The rich flavors of the chili blend seamlessly with the comforting texture of macaroni and cheese, creating a satisfying experience for everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious dish ready for your family in no time.
• Hearty and Filling: The combination of ground beef and beans provides a protein-packed meal that keeps everyone satisfied.
• Versatile Dish: Customize your Chili Mac by adding your favorite toppings like jalapeños or sour cream.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe serves 18 cups, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or leftovers for busy nights.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps ensure that even novice cooks can master this recipe.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking the pasta and mixing all ingredients together without creating a mess.
• Skillet: Perfect for browning the ground beef evenly while developing rich flavors in the chili.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring even mixing of ingredients.

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Ingredients

For this delicious Chili Mac recipe, you will need:

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 and Vegetables

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary. Add diced onions, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet; sauté until vegetables are soft.

Step 2: Combine Chili Ingredients

Stir in chili seasoning mix, tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juice, chicken broth, and kidney beans. Simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well.

Step 4: Prepare Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour until smooth; cook for about 1 minute. Gradually add heavy cream and milk while whisking constantly until thickened. Stir in mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, hot sauce, and cheddar cheese until melted.

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

Mix cooked macaroni into the chili mixture until well combined. Pour cheese sauce over the top; stir gently to combine.

Step 6: Serve Your Chili Mac

Spoon servings into bowls or plates and garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot! Enjoy your comforting dish with friends or family!

How to Serve Chili Mac

Chili Mac is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to suit your occasion or mood. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a lively game day, here are some creative serving suggestions.

With Fresh Toppings

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy contrast and enhances the chili flavor.
• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle fresh chopped green onions for a crunchy and flavorful touch.
• Shredded Lettuce: Add shredded lettuce for freshness and a bit of crunch.

As a Casserole

• Baked Chili Mac: Transfer the dish to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake until bubbly for a comforting casserole-style meal.

With Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for dipping and an extra layer of flavor.
• Cornbread: A slice of moist cornbread pairs perfectly with the spicy chili flavors.

In Individual Portions

• Mini Bowls: Serve Chili Mac in small bowls for individual portions, perfect for gatherings or potlucks.

How to Perfect Chili Mac

To ensure your Chili Mac turns out delicious every time, follow these handy tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the flavors. Opt for ripe tomatoes and fresh bell peppers.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by adding more or less hot sauce according to your taste preferences.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Under-cook the macaroni slightly; it will continue to cook when mixed with the chili.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for added flavor variations.
• Make Ahead Options: Prepare the chili base ahead of time. Store it in the fridge and combine with mac when ready to serve.
• Garnish Creatively: Use fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to brighten up the dish visually and enhance its taste.

Best Side Dishes for Chili Mac

Pairing side dishes with Chili Mac can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options that complement this hearty dish.

1. Garden Salad: A light garden salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of Chili Mac.
2. Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw adds texture and balances out the spiciness with its creamy dressing.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies, such as carrots and zucchini, add color and nutrients to your meal.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is a classic pairing that enhances the overall flavor profile of your dinner.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice or quinoa make an appealing side that’s full of flavor.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs create a delightful crunch alongside your Chili Mac.
7. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Small grilled cheese sandwiches serve as an excellent dipper into your Chili Mac bowl.
8. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate after enjoying this rich dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Chili Mac, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Bold seasoning: Overlooking the importance of seasoning can lead to bland Chili Mac. Always taste as you go and adjust spices accordingly.
• Bold cooking time: Cooking the pasta too long can result in mushy macaroni. Follow package instructions to ensure it’s al dente before adding it to the chili.
• Bold cheese quality: Using low-quality cheese can affect texture and flavor. Opt for freshly shredded cheddar for the best results.
• Bold ingredient swaps: Not following the recipe or making drastic substitutions might alter the taste significantly. Stick to recommended ingredients when possible, especially for the chili seasonings.
• Bold skipping garnishes: Neglecting fresh garnishes like parsley can make your dish less appealing. A sprinkle of herbs adds color and freshness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Chili Mac

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Chili Mac

• Bold Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Bold Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Bold Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed, stirring until warmed evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries regarding Chili Mac:

What is Chili Mac?

Chili Mac is a comforting casserole that combines hearty chili with creamy macaroni and cheese, creating a satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.

Can I customize my Chili Mac?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like corn or zucchini or swap ground beef for turkey or chicken based on your preferences.

How do I make my Chili Mac more spicy?

To spice it up, add additional hot sauce or diced jalapeños into the chili mixture before baking.

How do I store leftover Chili Mac?

Store leftover Chili Mac in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze it for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Chili Mac is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that appeals to all ages. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or bringing it along to a potluck, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table. Give it a try and enjoy its hearty goodness!