Chili Mac

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that warms your heart and fills your belly, you’ve come to the right place! This Chili Mac recipe is a delightful mashup of hearty homemade chili and creamy macaroni and cheese. It’s a favorite in my household because it brings everyone together around the dinner table, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a fun family gathering. Plus, it’s perfect for potlucks or game day munching with friends!

This Chili Mac is not just delicious; it’s also super easy to whip up. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a meal that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Family-friendly appeal: Even picky eaters will enjoy this comforting combination of flavors.
• Quick preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a satisfying meal on the table in no time.
• Hearty and filling: This dish is packed with protein and flavor, making it perfect for hungry appetites.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare it in advance and simply heat it up when you’re ready to serve.
• Versatile options: Customize it with your favorite toppings or ingredients for a personal touch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make this delicious Chili Mac! These items are easy to find and come together beautifully to create an unforgettable meal.

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 get creative and customize it to suit your tastes.

• Swap the protein: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or corn for added nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or extra hot sauce if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Cheesy goodness: Experiment with different cheese varieties like pepper jack or mozzarella for a flavor twist.

How to Make Chili Mac

Step 1: Cook the Beef and Veggies

Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Break it apart as it cooks until it’s no longer pink. Once done, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté these veggies until they’re tender—this step adds great flavor as they soften and meld into the meat.

Step 2: Add Flavorful Ingredients

Next, stir in the garlic, chili seasoning mix, tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and kidney beans. Let this simmer together for about 10 minutes so all those wonderful flavors can combine beautifully.

Step 3: Prepare the Macaroni

While your chili is simmering away, cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain it well and set aside; we’ll be adding it to our hearty mixture soon!

Step 4: Make Creamy Cheese Sauce

In another pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth; this will help thicken our cheese sauce! Gradually add heavy cream and milk while whisking continuously until it’s nice and creamy. Stir in mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, hot sauce, and then fold in that cheesy goodness!

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

Now comes the fun part! In your skillet with chili, stir in the cooked macaroni followed by your creamy cheese sauce. Mix everything together until every bite is coated in rich deliciousness.

Step 6: Serve with Love

Spoon that warm Chili Mac into bowls or onto plates. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color! Enjoy this delightful dish with family or friends—you’ve just made something truly special!

Pro Tips for Making Chili Mac

Making the perfect Chili Mac is all about those little touches that elevate your dish from good to great. Here are some tips to ensure your Chili Mac turns out delicious every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs can significantly enhance the flavors of your dish, giving it a vibrant taste that dried or canned ingredients may lack.

• Customize your spice level: Adjust the amount of hot sauce or chili seasoning to suit your family’s taste preferences. This way, everyone can enjoy a bowl that’s just right for them!

• Cook pasta al dente: When cooking the macaroni, aim for al dente. This ensures that the pasta maintains its texture and doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the chili and cheese.

• Experiment with cheeses: While cheddar is classic, mixing in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack can add unique flavors and creaminess to your Chili Mac.

• Make it ahead: This dish reheats beautifully! Prepare it a day in advance and allow the flavors to meld together overnight for a richer taste.

How to Serve Chili Mac

Serving your Chili Mac is an opportunity to get creative! Here are some ideas to present this comforting dish in style.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: These add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the mac and cheese.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop on top adds creaminess and balances out the spices in the chili.
• Fresh parsley or cilantro: A sprinkle of either herb adds freshness and brightness, making your dish visually appealing.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: This classic side is slightly sweet and pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of Chili Mac, making for a comforting meal.

• Simple green salad: A crisp salad with seasonal greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta dish.

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots roasted with olive oil make for a nutritious side that adds color and health benefits.

• Garlic bread: Crunchy garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser and complements the cheesy goodness of your Chili Mac perfectly.

Now you’re all set to enjoy an incredible meal that brings warmth and comfort! Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family—they’ll thank you for it!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chili Mac recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy comforting flavors throughout the week! You can whip up a big batch and store it for future meals.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the Chili Mac to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date you made it for easy tracking!

Freezing

• Portion out the Chili Mac into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Make sure to leave some space at the top of each container, as the Chili Mac may expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen Chili Mac overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until heated through, or reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Serve hot and enjoy!

FAQs

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

Can I make Chili Mac ahead of time?

Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prepping. You can prepare it in advance and either refrigerate or freeze it for later.

What is Chili Mac?

Chili Mac is a delightful combination of hearty chili and creamy macaroni and cheese. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Can I use other types of pasta in Chili Mac?

Yes! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can substitute with other pasta shapes like shells or fusilli based on your preference.

How do I spice up my Chili Mac?

You can add more heat by incorporating diced jalapeños or using a spicier chili seasoning mix. Feel free to customize according to your taste!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Chili Mac recipe brings warmth and joy to your dining table! It’s a comforting dish that combines two classics into one delicious meal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe has got you covered. Enjoy every cheesy bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences with me—I’d love to hear how yours turns out!