Cheesy Chili Mac: A Flavorful Comfort Food Classic

Welcome to a cozy and satisfying dish that will warm you up from the inside out – Chili Mac Cheese! This hearty recipe brings together the comforting flavors of chili with the irresistible cheesiness of mac and cheese. Perfect for a chilly evening or a comforting family dinner, Chili Mac Cheese is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

In this easy-to-follow recipe, we combine tender macaroni pasta with flavorful ground beef, aromatic spices, and a generous amount of gooey cheddar cheese. The result is a delicious one-pot meal that is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick and delicious meal or a food enthusiast searching for a comforting dish with a twist, Chili Mac Cheese ticks all the boxes.

So grab your ingredients, get your pot ready, and let’s dive into making this mouthwatering Chili Mac Cheese. With simple steps and a burst of flavor in every bite, this recipe is bound to become a new favorite in your household.

Quick Benefits

• Hearty and satisfying meal combining the flavors of chili, macaroni, and cheese
• High in protein from lean ground beef and shredded cheddar cheese
• Easy to make with simple ingredients and minimal prep time

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Chili Mac: A Flavorful Comfort Food Classic Recipe

• A satisfying comfort food mashup: This Chili Mac Cheese recipe combines the heartiness of chili with the creaminess of mac and cheese, offering a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for cozy evenings.
• Easy one-pot meal: With simple ingredients and only one pot needed for cooking, this recipe is convenient and hassle-free, making it ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
• Customizable spice level: The addition of chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper allows you to adjust the spice level to suit your taste preferences, making it versatile for both spice lovers and those who prefer a milder flavor.
• Family-friendly and kid-approved: The combination of pasta, cheese, and flavorful beef in this dish is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults, making it a great option for family dinners or gatherings.
• Budget-friendly: Made with affordable and readily available ingredients like ground beef, pasta, and canned tomatoes, this recipe is a budget-friendly option for feeding a crowd without compromising on taste.

Ingredients for Cheesy Chili Mac: A Flavorful Comfort Food Classic

Main Ingredients

• 1 green bell pepper, seeded and diced
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 8 oz macaroni pasta
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, diced

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chili powder

Liquid Base

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1½ cups chicken broth
• 14 oz can crushed tomatoes with juices

How to Make Cheesy Chili Mac: A Flavorful Comfort Food Classic

Step 1: Brown Beef and Vegetables

In a large pot over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Add ground beef, diced onion, and bell pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until beef is browned and vegetables are softened.

Step 2: Add Seasonings

Add chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and cayenne pepper (if desired). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant and evenly distributed.

Step 3: Add Liquid Ingredients

Combine crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and chicken broth in the pot. Stir well to mix and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

After boiling, add the macaroni pasta and stir. Cover the pot, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until pasta is al dente. Keep pot covered for consistent cooking.

Step 5: Check Pasta Doneness

If pasta is still undercooked after 15 minutes, add 2 tablespoons of water or broth, cover, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until tender but not mushy.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Finish

Take the pot off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Allow it to sit for 2-3 minutes to thicken before serving hot.

Storage Tips

To store the finished Chili Mac Cheese dish, allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Place the container in the refrigerator and it can be stored for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, you can either use the microwave or reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

If you have a large batch of Chili Mac Cheese and want to freeze leftovers for future meals, it is best to portion the dish into individual servings before freezing. Place the portions in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, making sure to remove any excess air before sealing. The frozen Chili Mac Cheese can be stored for up to 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of broth or water if needed to help loosen up the dish as it reheats.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need to make some ingredient substitutions for this Chili Mac Cheese recipe, there are a few options you can consider. For a vegetarian version, you can swap the lean ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives like Beyond Beef or TVP (textured vegetable protein). You can also substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth to keep the dish completely meat-free.

If you don’t have macaroni pasta on hand, you can use any other short pasta shape like penne, rotini, or shells. This will still give you that comforting pasta and cheese combination. Additionally, if you prefer a spicier dish but don’t have cayenne pepper, you can use red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to add heat to the chili mac. Just adjust the amount to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun and creative way to serve your Chili Mac Cheese, try stuffing the mixture into bell peppers and baking until the peppers are tender and the filling is bubbly and golden brown on top. This adds a unique twist to the classic dish and makes for a visually appealing presentation that is sure to impress your guests. You can top the stuffed peppers with a dollop of sour cream, some fresh cilantro, and a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar cheese for a delicious finishing touch.

Another exciting serving suggestion for your Chili Mac Cheese is to transform it into a hearty and comforting casserole. Simply spread the cooked mixture into a baking dish, top with a layer of crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter, and bake until the top is crispy and golden. This casserole variation adds a delightful crunch to every bite and makes for a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Serve with a side of avocado slices and a refreshing cucumber tomato salad to balance out the richness of the dish.

FAQs for Cheesy Chili Mac: A Flavorful Comfort Food Classic

Question?

Can I substitute ground turkey for the lean ground beef?

Answer.

Yes, you can easily substitute ground turkey for the lean ground beef in this recipe. The flavor may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.

Question?

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of macaroni?

Answer.

Yes, you can use a different type of pasta if you prefer. Penne, rotini, or shells work well in this recipe too.

Question?

Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?

Answer.

Yes, you can make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with plant-based ground “meat” or crumbled tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian option.

Conclusion

After simmering all the delicious ingredients together to create the ultimate comfort food dish, your Chili Mac Cheese is ready to be savored. The perfect marriage of hearty chili flavors with creamy, cheesy goodness makes this dish a go-to favorite for cozy nights or family gatherings.

So next time you’re craving a warm and comforting meal, don’t hesitate to whip up a batch of this scrumptious Chili Mac Cheese. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table. Embrace the flavors, enjoy the process, and let the delicious aroma fill your home as you indulge in a bowl of comforting Chili Mac Cheese.