Chili mac is a warm and filling meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights! To whip it up, cook elbow macaroni until it’s al dente. Then, sauté some onions and bell peppers in a pan, add ground beef or turkey, and stir in chili powder and diced tomatoes. Finally, mix everything with your macaroni and let it simmer for a bit. Don’t forget to top it with cheese! Feel free to spice it up or toss in some veggies you like. You’ll impress your family, and soon enough, this will be your go-to recipe for comfort food goodness! You’ll find even more fun ideas ahead!
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
You’ll love this chili mac recipe for its perfect blend of hearty flavors and easy preparation. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in family comfort after a long day. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy, making weeknight simplicity a reality in your kitchen.
Imagine serving up a steaming bowl of chili mac, filled with:
- Tender pasta coated in rich chili sauce
- Ground beef (or turkey!) for extra protein
- Beans that add a satisfying texture
Chili Mac Recipe
Course: DinnerCuisine: American4-6
servings10
minutes30
minutes450
kcalChili Mac is a hearty, comforting dish that combines the bold flavors of chili with the satisfying chew of macaroni, creating the perfect one-pot meal.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
– 1 cup elbow macaroni
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Optional: sliced green onions for garnish
Directions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, elbow macaroni, beef broth, and all spices.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the macaroni is tender.
- Stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Notes
- Feel free to customize with your favorite spices or add veggies like bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition!
Equipment
To make this delicious Chili Mac, having the right equipment on hand can make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Here are my top utensil recommendations for preparing this meal:
- A large pot for boiling pasta.
- A sturdy wooden spoon for stirring the chili.
- A measuring cup to keep your ingredients on point.
With these tools, you’ll master those cooking methods in no time!
What to Serve With This Recipe
When I whip up a delicious dish like chili mac, I love to think about what sides can really make the meal pop.
A fresh side salad adds a crisp crunch, while some warm, buttery bread can soak up all that cheesy goodness.
And don’t forget about drinks—something invigorating can really tie everything together!
Side Salads Suggestions
Complementing your chili mac with an invigorating side salad can elevate the meal and brighten the flavors on your plate.
I love serving a crisp green salad or a revitalizing cucumber salad alongside. A quinoa salad adds a healthy twist, while corn salad brings sweetness.
For something creamy, I’d suggest a coleslaw suggestion or a vibrant spinach salad. They’re all delicious!
Bread Pairing Ideas
The perfect pairing of bread can turn a simple chili mac into a heartwarming feast.
I love experimenting with different bread varieties, like crusty sourdough or soft garlic bread, to complement the flavors of the dish.
A warm, toasted bun is delightful too!
These flavor pairings create a satisfying experience, making every bite enjoyable, and they’re great for gathering friends around the table!
Beverage Accompaniments
Pairing the right beverages with chili mac can elevate your meal experience.
I love to experiment with different chili pairings! A chilled beer or a fruity soda works wonders, while iced tea can be invigorating, too.
For something warmer, try hot chocolate—trust me, it’s a cozy choice!
With these beverage choices, you’ll make your chili mac night even more fun and flavorful!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta in This Recipe?
I’ve tried gluten-free alternatives like brown rice or quinoa pasta in my dishes, and they work great. Just keep in mind that pasta substitutions might slightly change the texture, but it still tastes delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers of Chili Mac?
To store leftovers, I use airtight containers for my meal prep. It keeps everything fresh and makes grabbing a quick bite easy. I love that freedom—no more wasting food and enjoying delicious meals later!
Can I Freeze Chili Mac for Later?
Absolutely, I love freezing meals for later! Just use proper freezing methods—like airtight containers. When I reheat, I take care to thaw it in the fridge first. Enjoy your hassle-free meal!
What Spices Enhance the Flavor of Chili Mac?
When I think about enhancing flavors, I love using spice combinations like cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder. They create rich flavor profiles that elevate my dishes, bringing an exciting twist that everyone enjoys.
How Can I Make Chili Mac Spicier?
I often add hot sauce and a generous dash of chili powder to kick it up a notch. It really brings the heat and freedom of flavor I crave in my meals—it’s all about personal preference!
