Chili Mac

This Chili Mac recipe combines hearty homemade chili with creamy macaroni and cheese, creating a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing for a potluck, or looking for game day food, this dish delivers on flavor and satisfaction. The delightful mix of spices and cheesy goodness makes it a standout choice that will please any crowd.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for home cooks of all levels.
• Flavorful Combination: The rich chili flavor pairs perfectly with creamy macaroni, bringing together two favorites in one dish.
• Versatile Meal: Suitable for various occasions such as family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings.
• Budget-Friendly: With affordable ingredients like ground beef and beans, this dish is easy on the wallet.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Great for feeding a large group, this recipe yields 18 cups of deliciousness.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into cooking your Chili Mac, gather your tools to make the process smoother. Having the right equipment on hand will help ensure that you can whip up this tasty meal without any hiccups.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Baking dish

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the macaroni and chili together without overflow.
• Skillet: Perfect for browning the ground beef and sautéing vegetables to enhance flavors.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring ingredients evenly without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Chili Mac, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Chili Mixture

• 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: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients and chopping the vegetables. This will help you cook more efficiently.

Step 2: Cook the Beef and Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
2. Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Stir in onions, bell peppers, and garlic; sauté until softened.

Step 3: Add Chili Ingredients

Once the vegetables have softened:
1. Mix in chili seasoning, tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and kidney beans.
2. Simmer on low heat for about 10-15 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Macaroni

Meanwhile:
1. In another large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
2. Add macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Prepare Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan:
1. Melt butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in flour to create a roux; cook for about 1 minute.
3. Gradually whisk in heavy cream and milk until smooth.
4. Add mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and hot sauce.
5. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Once both mixtures are ready:
1. Add cooked macaroni to the chili mixture; stir well to combine.
2. Pour cheese sauce over everything; mix until well combined.

Step 7: Bake if Desired

If you’d like a baked version:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Transfer mixture into a baking dish; sprinkle additional cheese on top if desired.
3. Bake for about 15-20 minutes until bubbly.

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’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a comforting meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

With Fresh Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions – Add a sprinkle of fresh green onions for a pop of color and flavor.
• Shredded Cheese – Top with extra cheddar cheese just before serving for an indulgent touch.
• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spice.

As a Fun Casserole

• Baked Chili Mac – Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly for a delightful casserole style.

Paired with Cornbread

• Sweet Cornbread – The sweetness of cornbread complements the savory flavors of Chili Mac perfectly.

Accompanied by Salad

• Simple Green Salad – A light salad with mixed greens provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty Chili Mac.

How to Perfect Chili Mac

To ensure your Chili Mac is always delicious, consider these helpful tips:

• Bold Seasoning – Use homemade chili seasoning for richer flavors rather than store-bought mixes.
• Quality Cheese – Opt for freshly shredded cheese; it melts better than pre-packaged options.
• Perfect Pasta Texture – Cook macaroni al dente; it will absorb flavors while maintaining its shape in the dish.
• Mix Ingredients Thoroughly – Ensure all ingredients are well combined for an even distribution of flavors throughout the dish.

Best Side Dishes for Chili Mac

Serving Chili Mac alongside complementary side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread – Crisp and buttery, garlic bread pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of Chili Mac.
2. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity, balancing the creamy textures.
3. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutrition and color to your plate.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and natural sweetness alongside your meal.
5. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn on the cob provides a lovely contrast to spicy dishes like Chili Mac.
6. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges are fun to dip into any leftover sauce from your Chili Mac.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chili Mac, it’s easy to overlook some important details that can affect the final dish. Here are common mistakes to avoid.

• Bold seasoning choices: Using too little or too much chili seasoning can make your dish bland or overwhelmingly spicy. Start with the recommended amount and adjust according to your taste.
• Bold pasta overcooking: Cooking macaroni too long can lead to mushy pasta. Follow the package instructions and aim for al dente texture since it will cook further in the oven.
• Bold ingredient substitutions: Not using the right broth or cheese can alter the flavor profile significantly. Stick to chicken or beef broth and use good quality cheddar for the best results.
• Bold skipping garnishes: Neglecting fresh herbs like parsley can make your dish look less appealing. Always add a garnish before serving for that added touch of freshness and color.
• Bold ignoring leftovers: Failing to store leftovers properly can lead to waste. Make sure to cool and store in airtight containers within two hours of cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the Chili Mac to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Chili Mac

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
• Consider portioning into individual servings for easy reheating.

Reheating Chili Mac

• Bold Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the Chili Mac in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Bold Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until heated evenly.
• Bold Stovetop: In a saucepan over medium heat, add a splash of broth or water to prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Chili Mac, here are some common queries answered.

What is Chili Mac?

Chili Mac is a delicious combination of homemade chili and creamy macaroni and cheese, making it a hearty meal option.

Can I use different types of meat in Chili Mac?

Yes! You can easily substitute ground beef with ground turkey or lamb for variations in flavor.

How do I customize my Chili Mac?

Feel free to add extra vegetables like zucchini or corn, or use different cheese blends for unique flavors!

Is Chili Mac suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish reheats well and is perfect for meal prepping lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Chili Mac is not only comforting but also versatile enough for family dinners or gatherings. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, you can easily customize it by adding vegetables or experimenting with different cheeses. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!