Have you tried a recipe so hearty and comforting that you want it on repeat? That’s exactly how I felt after making this chili mac for the first time. It’s the perfect pairing of rich, creamy macaroni and cheese mixed with the savory boldness of a classic homemade chili.
If you’re a fan of recipes like Greek lemon chicken, you’ll love experimenting with bold flavors in comforting meals like this. Chili mac is ideal for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or even game-day feasts. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll keep coming back for more!
Ingredients for Chili Mac
Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need to make this cozy, satisfying dish. I’ve added a few tips to make sure every ingredient shines.
Chili
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean): Adds richness and flavor. For a healthier option, lean ground turkey works great.
- 1 small onion, diced: Enhances the chili’s base flavor.
- ½ cup bell pepper, diced (red or green): Adds a touch of sweetness and a fresh crunch.
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced: Use fresh for the best aromatic punch.
- 1 packet (1.25 oz) of chili seasoning mix: A balanced mix of spices for that classic chili taste. Pro tip: Use homemade seasoning if you love customizing flavors.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Concentrates the chili’s flavor.
- 8 oz tomato sauce: Blends everything together smoothly.
- 14.5 oz can of diced tomatoes (undrained): Adds texture and depth; opt for fire-roasted ones for more zest.
- ½ cup chicken broth (or beef broth): Keeps everything moist and flavorful.
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed: A hearty addition. You can use black beans if you prefer.
Macaroni & Cheese
- 2 cups macaroni pasta, uncooked: Feel free to swap with shells or another pasta variety.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness to the cheese sauce.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce.
- ½ cup heavy cream and 1 cup milk (whole preferred): Creates a creamy, smooth base.
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder and ¼ teaspoon onion powder, salt, and pepper each: Enhance the cheese sauce’s depth.
- ½ teaspoon hot sauce: Subtle heat that accentuates the flavor without being overpowering.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (block cheese recommended): Freshly shredded cheese melts better.
Topping
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: A gooey topping for baked perfection.
- Fresh parsley (optional): For a vibrant garnish.
Note: This recipe makes about 18 servings, perfect for a family dinner with plenty left over for later.
Tastier Variations to Try
Want to switch things up? Here are some creative twists:
- Dairy-Free: Use plant-based milk and vegan cheese for the mac and cheese portion.
- Spicier Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chili.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute macaroni with gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour substitute.
- Flavor Add-Ins: Try mixing in chopped bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or even a splash of beer in the chili for complexity.
For similar comforting pasta recipes, you can also try this Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta, which adds a Caribbean twist to creamy dishes.
Cooking Time
Here’s a quick summary of how long this recipe takes:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot: For cooking the chili base.
- Medium pot: To boil the macaroni.
- Whisk: Essential for creating a smooth cheese sauce.
- Box grater: To shred cheese for better melting.
- Baking dish: Needed for the final bake and cheesy topping.
How to Make Chili Mac Step-by-Step
Creating this dish is simple when you break it down into manageable steps. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Make the Chili
Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s browned, add the diced onion and cook until softened. Toss in the diced bell peppers and garlic, giving everything a good mix. Stir in the chili seasoning and tomato paste to coat the veggies and beef evenly.
Next, pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Cover partially and simmer the chili on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together. Stir the kidney beans into the mix about ten minutes before serving.
Step 2: Prepare the Macaroni
While the chili simmers, cook the macaroni in salted boiling water until just al dente. Be careful not to overcook, as it will continue cooking when baked with the cheese later. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
Melt butter in a medium pot and whisk in the flour to create a roux. Gradually add splashes of heavy cream and milk while whisking to keep the sauce smooth. Add the mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and hot sauce.
Lower the heat and sprinkle in shredded cheddar cheese in batches, stirring until completely melted. Finally, stir in the cooked macaroni to coat it evenly in the sauce.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Combine the prepared chili and mac and cheese in a large baking dish. Adjust the ratio of chili to macaroni based on your preference. Spread a generous handful of shredded cheddar cheese on top and bake at 400°F for five minutes, or until the cheese topping melts and bubbles. Garnish with parsley, if desired, for extra flair.
Additional Tips for Perfect Chili Mac
From my experience, these small tweaks can make a big difference:
- Shred the cheese fresh; it melts more smoothly and tastes better than pre-packaged options.
- Simmer the chili longer for deeper flavors.
- Avoid overcooking the pasta since it will soften further during baking.
- Enhance the presentation by baking it in individual oven-safe dishes.
How to Serve Chili Mac
Chili mac is incredibly versatile! Serve it up in a big bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream for added contrast. Pair it with cornbread or a side of salad for a balanced meal. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a game-day party, this dish always impresses.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a basic idea of the nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 247
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 12g
How to Store Chili Mac
Here’s how you can enjoy this dish later:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
- Freeze: Chili mac freezes well. Use freezer-safe containers, and it will last up to three months.
- Reheat: Warm it up in the microwave or oven. Add a splash of milk when reheating to keep it moist.
Chili mac is the ultimate one-pot crowd-pleaser, so get ready to see it disappear fast! Or explore even more dinner recipes here. Enjoy cooking and savor the deliciousness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is an instant favorite for so many reasons.
- Simple to Make: Even kitchen beginners can handle it.
- Customizable: Tailor the flavors and ingredients to your liking.
- Comforting: The perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make-ahead options ensure it’s always ready to enjoy.
- Kid-Friendly: Combines two childhood favorites in one wholesome meal.
FAQs
Can I make this in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the chili or the entire dish ahead, refrigerate, and bake before serving.
What other cheeses can I use?
Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Pepper Jack are excellent choices for this recipe.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely. Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumble or additional beans like pinto or black beans.