Chili Mac

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that the whole family will love, this Chili Mac is just the ticket! Imagine rich, flavorful chili mixed with creamy macaroni and cheese — it’s the ultimate comfort food mashup. Whether you’re rushing home after a long day or hosting friends for game day, this dish delivers deliciousness in every bite. It’s my go-to recipe when I want something satisfying but easy to whip up, and I’m excited to share it with you!

This Chili Mac has a special place in my heart because it combines two classic favorites into one hearty meal. Plus, it’s perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, bringing everyone together over a warm bowl of goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will adore this creamy and flavorful dish.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prep this Chili Mac ahead of time — just reheat when you’re ready to serve!
• Comfort food at its best: The combination of chili and macaroni brings warmth and satisfaction to chilly evenings.
• Versatile options: Customize it with your favorite ingredients for a personal touch!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create this delightful Chili Mac. The beauty of this recipe is how accessible everything is — you might already have most of these staples in your kitchen!

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 (to garnish)

Variations

One of the great things about this Chili Mac is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Sneak in some zucchini or spinach for extra nutrients and color.
• Make it spicy: If you like heat, add diced jalapeños or more hot sauce for an extra kick.
• Cheese overload: Experiment with different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist.

How to Make Chili Mac

Step 1: Cook the Beef and Veggies

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef along with the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and the veggies are tender. This step adds depth to your chili by infusing flavors from the vegetables into the meat.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Once your beef mixture is ready, stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Then sprinkle in your chili seasoning mix along with tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and kidney beans. Let everything simmer together so those flavors meld beautifully.

Step 3: Prepare the Macaroni and Cheese Sauce

In another pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux — this thickens your cheese sauce! Gradually stir in heavy cream and milk while whisking continuously until smooth. Then mix in mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and hot sauce for added flavor.

Step 4: Combine Everything Together

Once your mac and cheese sauce is creamy and bubbly, add in uncooked macaroni directly into the pot. Stir well! Cook according to pasta package instructions until al dente. Finally, mix in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and gooey.

Step 5: Assemble Your Dish

Combine your delicious chili with the cheesy macaroni mixture in a large baking dish or serving bowl. Give it a good stir to ensure everything is well mixed. Top with more shredded cheese if desired before baking briefly until bubbly.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy every bite of your homemade Chili Mac! It’s sure to become a favorite around your dinner table.

That’s all there is to it! I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do — let me know how yours turns out!

Pro Tips for Making Chili Mac

Making Chili Mac is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure it’s bursting with flavor and perfectly creamy every time!

• Choose the right beef: Using 80% lean ground beef adds flavor and richness to your chili mac. Leaner beef can dry out, while fattier options may make the dish greasy.
• Don’t skip the seasoning: Adding a homemade chili seasoning mix or your favorite store-bought blend enhances the overall taste. It infuses the dish with warmth and depth, making each bite exciting.
• Cook pasta al dente: Cooking the macaroni just until it’s al dente ensures it retains some bite and doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the chili. This texture contrast makes the dish more enjoyable.
• Incorporate fresh herbs: Adding fresh parsley not only adds color but also brightens up the flavors. A sprinkle on top just before serving gives a lovely finishing touch.
• Make it ahead of time: Chili mac can be made in advance and stored in the fridge. Reheating it allows flavors to meld even more, making it a perfect meal prep option!

How to Serve Chili Mac

Serving Chili Mac is as fun as making it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can elevate this comfort food into an appealing centerpiece for any occasion.

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: These add a mild onion flavor and vibrant color, enhancing both presentation and taste.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of either adds creaminess and tang that complements the chili beautifully.
• Shredded Cheese: Extra cheese on top before serving creates an indulgent finish that cheese lovers will adore.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: This sweet and buttery bread pairs perfectly with chili mac, offering a delightful contrast in textures.
• Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes provides freshness and balances out the richness of the dish.
• Steamed Broccoli: The slight bitterness of steamed broccoli complements the cheesy goodness of chili mac while adding a healthy touch.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up extra chili mac and adds a savory crunch that everyone will love.

Enjoy your Chili Mac creation! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate that brings people together.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chili Mac is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy hearty comfort food throughout the week without any fuss.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Portion the Chili Mac into freezer-safe containers.
• Leave some space at the top for expansion as it freezes.
• Label and date each container before placing them in the freezer.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm.

FAQs

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

Can I use different types of pasta for Chili Mac?

Absolutely! While macaroni is traditional, you can substitute with other pasta shapes like penne or rotini. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you choose.

What is unique about this Chili Mac recipe?

This Chili Mac combines rich homemade chili with creamy cheese sauce, creating a comforting dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings!

Can I make vegetarian Chili Mac?

Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based alternative or use mushrooms and lentils for added texture. You can also add more veggies like zucchini or corn.

How do I spice up my Chili Mac?

If you like extra heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a few extra dashes of hot sauce. For flavor complexity, try adding spices like cumin or smoked paprika.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Chili Mac recipe brings warmth and joy to your kitchen! It’s a delightful dish that combines all your favorites into one pot of comfort. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it during a cozy night in, I’m sure you’ll love making (and eating) it as much as I do. Don’t hesitate to share your thoughts after trying this recipe—happy cooking!