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Chili Mac is one of those dishes that instantly warms the heart. I remember the first time I made it for my family; they were gathered around the table, and as the aroma filled the kitchen, I felt this deep sense of nostalgia wash over me. It’s a meal that embodies comfort – a hearty blend of flavors that come together in one pot! If you’re looking for a simple, delicious dish that brings everyone together, Chili Mac is the perfect choice. Trust me; you’ll want to make this again and again.
Total time: 40 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Cost: Approximately $15
Servings: 4-6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: About 550 per serving
Ingredients for preparing Chili Mac:
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey: The base of the dish, bringing richness and flavor.
- 1 onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that aromatic experience.
- 1 can diced tomatoes: Provides acidity and freshness.
- 2 cups beef broth: This enhances the flavor and gives a nice base for the pasta.
- 1 cup elbow macaroni: The beloved pasta that makes this a comfort food classic.
- 1 can kidney beans, drained: For added protein and a bit of texture.
- 2 tablespoons chili powder: This is what gives Chili Mac its signature kick!
- 1 tablespoon cumin: Adds warmth and earthy tones.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing all the flavors.
- 1 cup Cheddar cheese, shredded: Melts beautifully for that creamy texture.
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded: Offers a silky finish and a bit of tang.
Personal note: If you want to take your Chili Mac to the next level, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika for a touch of smokiness!
Steps to prepare Chili Mac:
Step 1: Brown the meat
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until fully cooked. Remember to drain any excess fat afterwards.
Step 2: Sauté onions and garlic
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened. The scent here is simply divine!
Step 3: Combine everything
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, elbow macaroni, kidney beans, chili powder, and cumin.
Step 4: Season to taste
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened beautifully.
Step 5: Melt the cheese
- Stir in the Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until it’s all melted and gooey. This is where the real magic happens!
Step 6: Serve and enjoy
- Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious one-pot Chili Mac.
Why I love making this dish
Chili Mac isn’t just about the taste; it’s about the memories attached to it. I love how it brings my family together, how laughter fills the air as we gather around the table, sharing stories over this warm, comforting meal. Every bite feels like a hug, and it’s a recipe I’m proud to pass down to my kids.
What you’ll need:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Step-by-step guide to preparing Chili Mac:
- First, heat your large pot over medium heat. Add the ground meat, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Next, add the onions and garlic to that pot, stirring them until they become fragrant and everything is well combined.
- Toss in your tomatoes, broth, macaroni, beans, spices, and let that simmer until all the flavors meld together.
- Finally, mix in the cheese for that delicious finish.
Tips for the best results:
- For a little extra flavor, you can throw in some chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime right before serving. It brightens the dish!
Serving suggestions:
Chili Mac pairs so beautifully with a simple green salad or some warm cornbread. For a zesty kick, consider a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh green onions on top.
What to pair Chili Mac with:
A light beer or a glass of iced tea complements the meal perfectly, enhancing the flavors without overpowering them.
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What to do with leftovers:
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stove with a splash of broth to bring back that creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other types of pasta? Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite pasta shapes.
- Can I make it vegetarian? Yes! You can replace the meat with extra beans or vegetables.
- What if I don’t have beef broth? You can use chicken broth or even vegetable broth; the flavor will still be great!
In conclusion, I can’t tell you how much joy making Chili Mac brings to my heart. It’s easy to prepare, outrageously delicious, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. I encourage you to give this recipe a try – you’ll love how comforting and satisfying it is. And who knows, it might become a beloved favorite in your family too!
Chili Mac
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey The base of the dish, bringing richness and flavor.
- 1 medium onion, diced Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Essential for that aromatic experience.
- 1 can diced tomatoes Provides acidity and freshness.
- 2 cups beef broth Enhances the flavor and gives a nice base for the pasta.
- 1 cup elbow macaroni The beloved pasta that makes this a comfort food classic.
- 1 can kidney beans, drained For added protein and a bit of texture.
- 2 tablespoons chili powder Gives Chili Mac its signature kick!
- 1 tablespoon cumin Adds warmth and earthy tones.
- Salt and pepper to taste Essential for balancing all the flavors.
- 1 cup Cheddar cheese, shredded Melts beautifully for that creamy texture.
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded Offers a silky finish and a bit of tang.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat afterwards.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, elbow macaroni, kidney beans, chili powder, and cumin.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Stir in the Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until it's all melted and gooey.
- Serve hot and enjoy your delicious one-pot Chili Mac.