Chili Mac

If you’re looking for a cozy, hearty meal that warms the soul, then this Chili Mac recipe is just what you need! It’s a delightful blend of homemade chili and creamy macaroni and cheese, creating a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this Chili Mac is always a hit. I love how it brings everyone together around the table, making even the simplest evenings feel special.

This recipe is perfect for potlucks or game day too! You can easily double it to feed a crowd or enjoy leftovers throughout the week. It’s one of those dishes that gets better with time, making it an ideal make-ahead meal. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this comforting blend of flavors—who can resist gooey cheese?
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep! You can store leftovers or freeze portions for later.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The mix of spices, beans, and cheese creates a mouthwatering flavor that keeps you coming back for more.
• Versatile Dish: Great for any occasion—serve it as a quick dinner or impress guests at your next get-together!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make this delicious Chili Mac. You probably have most of these in your pantry already!

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 Mac 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

For Topping:

• 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
• Fresh Parsley (to garnish)

Now that we have everything ready, let’s talk about how flexible this recipe can be!

Variations

This Chili Mac recipe is wonderfully adaptable! You can easily customize it based on what you have or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Sneak in some zucchini, corn, or spinach to boost the nutritional value!
• Make it vegetarian: Use lentils instead of meat and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add some diced jalapeños or increase the amount of hot sauce.

How to Make Chili Mac

Step 1: Cook the Meat and Veggies

Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s cooked through, add in the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté until they become soft—this step adds great flavor to your base!

Step 2: Add in the Flavors

Stir in the diced garlic, chili seasoning mix, tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juice, chicken broth, and kidney beans. This combination creates that rich chili flavor we all love! Let everything simmer together for about 15 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In another saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux—it helps thicken your cheese sauce! Gradually whisk in heavy cream and milk until smooth. Then add mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and hot sauce for extra zing.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Once your cheese sauce is creamy and thickened up nicely, stir in the cooked macaroni until fully coated. Then fold in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and gooey—this is where all the magic happens!

Step 5: Bake It

Transfer everything into a baking dish and top with more cheddar cheese if desired. Bake at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

And there you have it—a delightful bowl of Chili Mac that brings warmth and comfort to any meal! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Chili Mac

Creating the perfect Chili Mac is all about balancing flavors and textures, and I’m here to help you achieve that!

• Use Quality Cheese: Opt for freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged varieties. Freshly shredded cheese melts better and enhances the creamy texture of your mac and cheese.

• Customize Your Heat: Adjust the level of spiciness by varying the amount of hot sauce or chili seasoning. Tailoring the heat ensures everyone at the table can enjoy this dish to their liking.

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the macaroni just until al dente before mixing it with the chili. This prevents mushy pasta and helps maintain a delightful bite in every spoonful.

• Let It Rest: Allow your Chili Mac to sit for about 5 minutes after cooking before serving. This helps it set up, making it easier to scoop out servings without everything falling apart.

• Experiment with Beans: Feel free to swap kidney beans with black beans or pinto beans based on your preference. This not only adds variety but can also enhance the nutritional value of your dish.

How to Serve Chili Mac

Chili Mac is not just delicious; it’s also visually appealing! With a few thoughtful touches, you can elevate this comforting dish into an impressive family feast or potluck centerpiece.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and a hint of freshness that complements the rich flavors.

• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds creaminess and balances out the spice, making it even more enjoyable.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the savory chili sauce, making each bite even more satisfying.

• Simple Green Salad: A light green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty Chili Mac, keeping your meal balanced.

• Cornbread: Soft, sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with Chili Mac, adding a comforting Southern twist that’s always welcome at dinner.

• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli not only brings color to your plate but also adds a nutritious element that complements this filling dish perfectly.

Now you’re all set to whip up a delightful Chili Mac that will have everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy every cheesy bite and share the warmth with those you love!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chili Mac and Cheese recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy hearty servings throughout the week. Here’s how to keep your leftovers fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the Chili Mac to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Divide the Chili Mac into portions or keep it whole.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Be sure to label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. You may want to add a splash of milk or broth to help loosen it up!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious Chili Mac.

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

Absolutely! While macaroni is traditional, feel free to substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, like penne or rotini. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

How do I make my Chili Mac spicier?

To amp up the heat in your Chili Mac, consider adding extra hot sauce, diced jalapeños, or even some crushed red pepper flakes. Tailor it to your taste!

Can I make this Chili Mac vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and replace it with your favorite plant-based protein or additional beans. The chili seasoning will still pack plenty of flavor!

What can I serve with my Chili Mac?

Chili Mac makes a satisfying meal on its own, but you can pair it with a simple green salad or some garlic bread for a complete dinner.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this comforting Chili Mac as much as I do! It’s such a special dish that brings together hearty flavors and creamy goodness all in one bowl. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight dinner, a potluck gathering, or just because you’re craving something delicious, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Enjoy every cheesy bite and happy cooking!