Chili Mac is the kind of dish that warms your soul and brings a smile to your face. Picture this: a hearty bowl filled with tender pasta, spicy chili, and ooey-gooey cheese all melted together in a delicious embrace. hearty chili options The aroma wafts through the kitchen, making it nearly impossible to resist taking a bite before it even reaches the table.
Now, let me take you back to my childhood. I remember those chilly nights when my mom would whip up her famous Chili Mac, filling the house with comforting smells. It became our go-to dish for family movie marathons or when friends dropped by unexpectedly. comforting soup recipes Trust me, if you’ve never experienced this culinary delight, you’re in for a treat that will have you dreaming about seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chili Mac recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner but rich in flavor to impress guests
- Customize it with your favorite toppings like jalapeños or sour cream
- Its colorful presentation makes it an eye-catching dish at any gathering
- Perfectly versatile, this dish works as a main course or a side for barbecues
I still chuckle when I think about the time I made Chili Mac for my best friend’s birthday party—everyone was too busy devouring it to even notice the cake! Italian-inspired dishes.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Macaroni Pasta: Use elbow macaroni for that classic texture; cook until al dente for perfect bite.
Ground Beef: Lean beef works best; feel free to substitute with turkey for a lighter option.
Canned Tomatoes: Choose diced tomatoes with green chilies for an extra kick; they add great flavor.
Kidney Beans: Drain and rinse them well; they add protein and texture to your Chili Mac.
Chili Powder: A generous amount ensures bold flavors; adjust based on spice tolerance.
Shredded Cheese: Cheddar cheese melts beautifully; use a blend of cheeses for added richness.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatics are essential; sauté until soft for maximum flavor impact.
Chicken Broth: Using broth instead of water enhances the overall taste of the Chili Mac.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Start by preparing your base: Heat a large pot over medium heat and add some olive oil. Once hot, toss in chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent. You want those aromatic vibes filling your kitchen.
Next, brown your meat: Add ground beef (or turkey) into the pot. Cook until browned completely while breaking it apart with a wooden spoon—about 5-7 minutes should do the trick. Don’t forget to season generously with salt and pepper as you go.
Layer in the flavors: Stir in canned tomatoes (with juice), kidney beans, and chili powder next. Let everything mingle together for another 5 minutes until those vibrant colors make you hungry just looking at them.
Time for pasta magic: Pour in chicken broth along with uncooked macaroni pasta. Increase heat until boiling, then reduce to simmer; cover and cook until pasta is tender—usually around 10-12 minutes should suffice. For more inspiration, check out this chicken sausages with pasta recipe.
Cheesy goodness awaits: Once cooked through, remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese until melted throughout—this step is where pure happiness occurs.
Serve it up: Dish out your Chili Mac into bowls and sprinkle additional cheese or toppings like sour cream or jalapeños if desired. Enjoy every cheesy bite while reminiscing about fond memories. For more inspiration, check out this beef and cheese chimichangas recipe.
Now that you’ve mastered this delightful recipe, you can share it with loved ones while creating new memories together!
You Must Know
- Chili Mac is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl
- The blend of spices and cheese creates an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen with comfort
- Trust me, your family will love this dish as much as my friends have loved mine!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef, then add the onions and garlic for flavor. Cook the pasta while your sauce simmers to save time and ensure everything is perfectly melded together.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the ground beef for turkey or veggies. Try adding black beans or corn for extra texture and flavor, making your Chili Mac uniquely yours. savory slider options.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water to maintain creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For an extra kick, sprinkle some cayenne pepper into the mix
- Avoid overcooking your pasta to keep it al dente
- Don’t forget to taste as you go for maximum flavor!
Sometimes I think back to that first time I made Chili Mac for my friends—they devoured it so quickly that I barely had any left for myself. Their smiles were priceless!
FAQ
What can I use instead of ground beef in Chili Mac?
You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even lentils for a vegetarian option.
Can I make Chili Mac ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it in advance and reheat when ready to serve.
How spicy can I make my Chili Mac?
You can adjust the spiciness by adding more chili powder or fresh jalapeños according to your taste preferences.
Chili Mac
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Chili Mac is a comforting, hearty dish that combines tender macaroni, spicy chili, and melted cheese into a bowl of deliciousness. Perfect for chilly nights or casual gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich flavors and customizable toppings. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, Chili Mac will bring warmth and joy to your table.
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 lb lean ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add ground beef (or turkey) to the pot; cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and chili powder; let simmer for 5 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and uncooked macaroni; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Cook until pasta is tender (10-12 minutes).
- Remove from heat; stir in shredded cheese until melted. Serve hot with optional toppings like sour cream or jalapeños.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
