Chili Mac

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms both the heart and the belly, you’ve found it! This Chili Mac recipe is a delightful blend of hearty homemade chili and creamy macaroni and cheese. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want to serve something satisfying and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a hit with kids and adults alike—everyone loves that cheesy goodness!

What makes this recipe truly special is how it combines flavors and textures. The zesty chili pairs beautifully with the creamy pasta, creating a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re planning for game day or just want an easy dinner idea, this Chili Mac is sure to be your new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: From start to finish, you can whip up this meal in just an hour!
• Family-friendly: Everyone will love the combination of chili and cheese—no more picky eaters!
• One-pot wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your meal together.
• Versatile: Perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to potlucks.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can easily prep this dish ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun! You might already have some of them in your pantry. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to create this scrumptious Chili Mac:

For the Chili Mixture

• 1 lb. 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 substitute 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)

To Garnish

• Fresh parsley

Variations

This Chili Mac recipe is super flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Go veggie: Replace the meat with black beans and add extra veggies like corn or zucchini.
• Add spice: If you love heat, throw in some jalapeños or increase the amount of hot sauce.
• Cheese overload: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a kick or mozzarella for extra stretchiness.

How to Make Chili Mac

Step 1: Cook the Meat

Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. This step builds flavor, so let it cook until it’s no longer pink. Add in the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic, sautéing until they soften—about 5 minutes. The aroma will have everyone gathering around!

Step 2: Mix in Seasonings

Once your veggies are tender, stir in the chili seasoning mix along with tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and kidney beans. Mix everything well and let it simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes. This allows all those delicious flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 3: Prepare the Mac & Cheese

In another pot, cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Meanwhile, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat and whisk in flour to create a roux—this will thicken your cheese sauce! Gradually stir in heavy cream and milk until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Once your macaroni is cooked and drained, mix it into the chili mixture along with mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, hot sauce, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is well combined and creamy.

Step 5: Bake & Serve

Transfer your glorious Chili Mac into a baking dish and sprinkle some extra cheese on top if desired. Bake at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving—enjoy every bite!

With this recipe in hand, you’re ready to impress family and friends with a cozy meal that everyone will adore!

Pro Tips for Making Chili Mac

Creating the perfect Chili Mac is easy and enjoyable with just a few helpful tips!

• Use lean ground beef: Opting for 80% lean ground beef keeps the dish flavorful while reducing excess grease, ensuring a delicious and comforting meal.

• Homemade chili seasoning: If you have time, try making your own chili seasoning mix! It’s simple and allows you to customize the spices to match your family’s taste preferences.

• Cook pasta al dente: To prevent mushy macaroni, cook it just until tender before combining it with the chili. This way, it holds its shape and adds a delightful texture to the dish.

• Add extra veggies: Sneak in more nutrition by adding diced zucchini or corn to the chili. They not only enhance the flavor but also add color and crunch.

• Let it rest: Allowing the Chili Mac to sit for about 5-10 minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld together beautifully, making each bite even more satisfying.

How to Serve Chili Mac

When it comes to serving Chili Mac, presentation can elevate this hearty dish into something truly special. Here are some fun ways to serve it up!

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: These add a fresh crunch and pop of color that contrasts nicely with the rich flavors of the Chili Mac.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop can provide a creamy tang that balances out the spiciness of the chili.
• Shredded cheese: A sprinkle of extra cheddar on top right before serving adds an inviting melty touch.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread makes for an irresistible side that’s perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce.
• Mixed greens salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with Chili Mac, refreshing your palate between bites.
• Steamed broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli adds a healthy touch and complements the richness of the dish beautifully.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is a classic pairing that adds warmth and sweetness, making every bite of your meal even more delightful.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Chili Mac will not only be delicious but also a hit at any gathering! Enjoy sharing this comforting dish with friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chili Mac is a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade comfort food throughout the week! With just a few simple steps, you can store it for later enjoyment.

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 to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Portion the Chili Mac into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Remember to label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the microwave for quick defrosting.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely; heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Chili Mac that you might find helpful!

Can I use other types of pasta for Chili Mac?

Absolutely! While macaroni works perfectly, feel free to substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli.

How can I make my Chili Mac spicier?

If you love heat, simply increase the amount of hot sauce or add diced jalapeños when cooking. You can also use spicy chili seasoning for an extra kick.

What sides go well with Chili Mac?

Chili Mac pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some crusty bread. You could even serve it with tortilla chips for a fun crunch!

Can I make Chili Mac ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe is ideal for meal prep. You can prepare it in advance and simply reheat it when you’re ready to eat.

Is this recipe customizable?

Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies like corn or zucchini, or swap out ground beef for a plant-based alternative if desired.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Chili Mac recipe brings warmth and happiness to your table! It’s perfect for cozy nights in or gatherings with friends. Enjoy every cheesy bite and don’t hesitate to experiment with your own twists on this dish. Happy cooking!