Chili Mac

There’s something about a warm bowl of Chili Mac that feels like a cozy hug on a chilly evening. I remember the first time I made it; I had just moved into my own apartment and was longing for the comforts of my childhood home. As the rich aroma of spices filled my kitchen, memories of family dinners came rushing back. This dish, with its heartiness and warmth, quickly became my go-to for not just dinner but also for gatherings with friends. Everyone loves a good Chili Mac, and it’s so easy to whip up! It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something satisfying yet simple.

Main Ingredients for Chili Mac

The ingredients in Chili Mac are a beautiful harmony of flavors and textures. This dish features a base of ground beef and beans, which provide protein and heartiness, while the tomato sauce and spices add depth and richness. The pasta ties it all together, soaking up all those wonderful flavors. Together, these ingredients create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

• 1 lb of ground beef – The star protein that gives this dish its heartiness.
• 1 Tbsp of olive oil – A must for sautéing and adding richness.
• 3 cloves of minced garlic – Adds a delightful aroma and flavor.
• ½ cup of finely chopped onion – Brings sweetness and depth to the dish.
• 14 oz of petite diced tomatoes – Adds acidity and freshness.
• 8 oz of tomato sauce – Enhances the overall tomato flavor.
• 16 oz of kidney beans – Provides fiber and a delicious texture.
• 2 Tbsp of brown sugar – Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
• 1 Tbsp of chili powder – Essential for that classic chili flavor.
• 1 tsp of cumin – Adds an earthy note.
• 1 tsp of salt – Enhances all the flavors.
• ¼ tsp of ground black pepper – For a nice kick.
• 3 ½ cups of beef broth – The liquid base that brings everything together.
• 2 cups of uncooked elbow macaroni – The perfect pasta to soak up all the flavors.
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully and adds richness.

Recipe Directions for Chili Mac

Cooking Chili Mac is a straightforward and enjoyable process. Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s hot enough when the oil shimmers. This step ensures that the ground beef sears nicely.
2. Add the ground beef and finely chopped onion to the pot. Cook for about 5 to 6 minutes, breaking up the meat with a spatula. Look for the meat to brown while the onions soften.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and continue cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes. You’re after that lovely garlic aroma, and the beef should be fully cooked by now. Make sure to drain any excess grease and discard it.
4. Next, add the petite diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, salt, black pepper, beef broth, and the uncooked elbow macaroni. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook for 12 to 13 minutes. This allows the macaroni to absorb the flavors and become tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. After the pasta has cooked, uncover the pot and let it simmer for an additional 3 to 4 minutes. This helps thicken the sauce and enhance the flavors. You want a nice, rich consistency.
7. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the pasta. Allow it to melt for a few moments before serving. The cheese adds a delicious creaminess that completes the dish beautifully.
8. Serve immediately, and enjoy your homemade Chili Mac with your favorite toppings like green onions or sour cream!

Helpful Hints

Here are some extra tips to make your Chili Mac even better:

• Storage: Store leftover Chili Mac in airtight containers in the fridge; it will keep for three to four days.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well! Let it cool, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to two months.
• Pairing: Serve with a fresh green salad or cornbread for a complete meal.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce while simmering.
• Ingredient variations: You can swap the kidney beans for black beans or try different cheeses for variety.

Accompaniments for Chili Mac

When it comes to serving Chili Mac, there are countless ways to enhance your meal:

• Serve with a side salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the Chili Mac.
• Pair with cornbread: The sweetness of cornbread makes a delightful contrast to the savory chili.
• Garnish: Top with fresh chopped green onions, sour cream, or shredded cheese for added flavor.
• Perfect for gatherings: This dish is ideal for potlucks or family gatherings, as it feeds a crowd easily.
• Seasonal occasions: Great for winter dinners, it’s comforting during cold months.
• Make it festive: Serve during game days or casual get-togethers for a fun, hearty meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

Chili Mac truly combines the best of both worlds, merging the comfort of chili with the delightful texture of pasta. It’s a dish that’s not only easy to make but sure to please anyone at your dinner table. I encourage you to whip up a batch tonight and experience the warmth and satisfaction that this dish brings. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Chili Mac

The ultimate comfort food, Chili Mac combines the heartiness of chili with the satisfying texture of macaroni. Rich, flavorful, and easy to make, it's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Serve it tonight and enjoy a bowl of happiness!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 495

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb Ground Beef
• 1 Tbsp Olive Oil
• 3 cloves Minced Garlic
• ½ cup Finely Chopped Onion
• 14 oz Petite Diced Tomatoes
• 8 oz Tomato Sauce
• 16 oz Kidney Beans rinsed and drained
• 2 Tbsp Brown Sugar
• 1 Tbsp Chili Powder
• 1 tsp Cumin
• 1 tsp Salt
• ¼ tsp Ground Black Pepper
• 3 ½ cups Beef Broth
• 2 cups Uncooked Elbow Macaroni
• 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese

Equipment

• Saucepan
• Oven
• Large Pot
• Chef's Knife
• Peeler
• Wooden Spoon
• Cutting Board

Method

 

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s hot enough when the oil shimmers. This step ensures that the ground beef sears nicely.
2. Add the ground beef and finely chopped onion to the pot. Cook for about 5 to 6 minutes, breaking up the meat with a spatula. Look for the meat to brown while the onions soften.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and continue cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes. You’re after that lovely garlic aroma, and the beef should be fully cooked by now. Make sure to drain any excess grease and discard it.
4. Next, add the petite diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, salt, black pepper, beef broth, and the uncooked elbow macaroni. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook for 12 to 13 minutes. This allows the macaroni to absorb the flavors and become tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. After the pasta has cooked, uncover the pot and let it simmer for an additional 3 to 4 minutes. This helps thicken the sauce and enhance the flavors. You want a nice, rich consistency.
7. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the pasta. Allow it to melt for a few moments before serving. The cheese adds a delicious creaminess that completes the dish beautifully.
8. Serve immediately, and enjoy your homemade Chili Mac with your favorite toppings like green onions or sour cream!

Notes

• Tip 1: Store leftover Chili Mac in airtight containers in the fridge; it will keep for three to four days.
• Tip 2: This dish freezes well! Let it cool, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to two months.
• Tip 3: Serve with a fresh green salad or cornbread for a complete meal.
• Tip 4: If you like heat, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce while simmering.
• Tip 5: You can swap the kidney beans for black beans or try different cheeses for variety.

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Meet Diana Foster

I appreciate the beauty of a well-made meal, but I also value simplicity. I’m always looking for that perfect balance of big flavor and low stress. I developed this recipe to be reliable, tasty, and perfect for your daily rotation.