Chili Mac is a warm and filling dish that combines spicy chili with macaroni and cheese. It’s like a hug in a bowl, perfect for cozy nights!
Honestly, what’s not to love about pasta and chili mingling together? I like to sprinkle some cheese on top for extra melty goodness. Yum! 🧀
Making Chili Mac is super easy! Just cook your pasta, mix it with chili, and top with cheese. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s ready in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: While elbow macaroni is the classic choice, feel free to use any pasta shape you like. I sometimes use ditalini or shells, which can hold onto the sauce well.
Ground Beef: Ground turkey or chicken are great lighter substitutes if you’re watching your fat intake. I’ve used them and it still tastes amazing!
Tomato Sauce: If you’re out of tomato sauce, using crushed tomatoes or a jar of marinara works just as well. Add a bit of sugar if you want to balance out the acidity.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is fantastic for melting, but Monterey Jack or a blend of your favorite cheeses can change up the flavor. I love adding pepper jack for a spicy kick!
How Can I Ensure My Chili Mac is Creamy and Delicious?
To make sure your Chili Mac is rich and creamy, you can follow a few simple steps:
- Cook the pasta slightly under al dente since it will continue cooking in the chili mixture.
- Mix in the cheese off the heat. This helps it to melt smoothly without getting stringy.
- Add a splash of cream or sour cream if you want extra creaminess; it gives a nice tang!
Don’t forget to stir well to combine everything before serving! Enjoy your comforting bowl of Chili Mac!
How to Make Chili Mac?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Pasta Base:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- For the Chili Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chili Mac recipe takes about 30 minutes total—10 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add the elbow macaroni and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Brown the Meat:
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat it over medium heat. Add the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the onions have softened. If there’s extra fat, drain it off.
3. Make the Chili Base:
Now, stir in the tomato sauce, beef broth (or water), chili powder, cumin, paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Bring this mixture to a simmer, letting it cook for about 5 minutes. This will help develop the flavors!
4. Combine with Pasta:
Add the cooked macaroni to the chili mixture in the skillet. Give it a good stir to make sure everything is combined well.
5. Add the Cheese:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Now, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the Chili Mac and stir until the cheese is melted and mixed throughout.
6. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, sprinkle some chopped parsley or cilantro on top for garnish. Serve your warm, cheesy Chili Mac directly from the skillet. Enjoy a comforting bowl of goodness!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time if needed, as some meats may require less time to brown.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! To make Chili Mac vegetarian, omit the ground beef and add black beans, kidney beans, or lentils instead. You can also increase the veggies like bell peppers or corn for more flavor and texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture and prevent it from drying out.
Can I Freeze Chili Mac?
It freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little liquid as needed.
