Description

Chili Mac is the ultimate comfort food that combines hearty homemade chili and creamy macaroni and cheese into one delicious dish. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or game day gatherings. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, Chili Mac is sure to please everyone at the table. Customize it with your favorite proteins or toppings for an extra twist and enjoy a meal that’s both filling and flavorful. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh or reheating leftovers, this dish promises warmth and comfort in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
2 cups macaroni (uncooked)
1 small onion (diced)
½ cup bell pepper (diced)
3 cloves garlic (diced)
1 packet chili seasoning mix
1 cup milk
1½ cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
1 tablespoon tomato paste
8 oz. tomato sauce
14.5 oz. can diced tomatoes (undrained)
½ cup chicken broth (can substitute beef broth)
1 15 oz. can kidney beans, drained
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
½ cup heavy cream
½ teaspoon mustard powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon each: salt/pepper
½ teaspoon hot sauce
Fresh Parsley for garnish

Instructions

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic; sauté until softened (about 5 minutes).
Stir in chili seasoning mix, tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and kidney beans; mix well.
Simmer on low heat for 20 minutes.
Meanwhile, cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
In a separate saucepan, melt butter and stir in flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in heavy cream and milk until thickened; then add mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and hot sauce.
Combine cooked macaroni with the chili mixture and melted cheese until blended.
Serve warm garnished with fresh parsley.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
Calories: 480
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For added depth of flavor, use homemade chili seasoning instead of store-bought. You can substitute ground beef with lentils for a vegetarian option or try different cheeses like Monterey Jack for a unique taste.