Chili Mac Cheese the Ultimate Mashup
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a bowl of pure comfort? Our chili mac and cheese recipe combines two absolute classics. Think cheesy goodness meets hearty chili flavor. It's dead easy, I promise!
Brief Overview
This American chili mac and cheese dish is soul food at its finest. It's ready in under an hour. This Easy Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe serves 6-8. Proper family sized portion, innit?
Main Benefits
This homemade chili mac and cheese is packed with protein and cheesy deliciousness. The beef chili mac and cheese version is ideal for a casual gathering.
Honestly, what could be better than a big bowl of this comfort food recipe on a cold night?
What is Chili Mac and Cheese?
This Skillet Chili Mac is a marriage made in heaven. We're talking classic American chili mac recipe meets creamy mac.
The result? A bowl of cheesy chili mac recipe that's both satisfying and nostalgic. You know when you need a dish to lift your spirit? This is it.
Ingredients: The Building Blocks
We're going to need pasta, ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a whole lotta cheese. It’s pretty simple, really. The full list is below.
I tend to just wing it sometimes. Don't tell anyone .
Ingredients & Equipment
Alright, let's talk about what you'll need to make this banging Chili Mac and Cheese . Honestly, it's all pretty straightforward.
You might even have most of it already. This Easy Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe is about to be your new fave, I reckon.
Main Ingredients: The Stars of the Show
Right then, get your pen and paper ready!
- Ground Beef: 1 pound (450g). Go for about 80/20. A bit of fat adds flavour.
- Onion: 1 medium. About a cup chopped.
- Green Bell Pepper: 1 medium. Again, about a cup chopped.
- Garlic: 2 cloves , minced. Don't skimp on the garlic!
- Kidney Beans: 1 can (15 ounces/425g), rinsed.
- Black Beans: 1 can (15 ounces/425g), rinsed.
- Diced Tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 ounces/411g), undrained.
- Tomato Sauce: 1 can (8 ounces/227g).
- Elbow Macaroni: 1 pound (450g). The classic choice, innit?
- Butter: 4 tablespoons (57g). Unsalted is best.
- Flour: ¼ cup (30g). All-purpose does the trick.
- Milk: 3 cups (710ml). Whole milk makes it extra creamy.
- Cheddar Cheese: 4 cups (400g), shredded. Sharp cheddar gives it a kick.
Now, about that ground beef. Quality is key, yeah? Look for beef that's bright red. It shouldn't be brown or grey.
If it smells a bit funky, bin it! We want Beef Chili Mac And Cheese , not dodgy tummy troubles.
Seasoning Notes: The Flavor Boosters
Seasoning is where the magic happens!
- Chili Powder: 2 tablespoons . Adds that chili punch.
- Cumin: 1 teaspoon . Earthy and warm.
- Smoked Paprika: ½ teaspoon . For a bit of smokiness. Lovely!
- Salt: 1 ½ teaspoons , divided. Season as you go.
- Black Pepper: ¾ teaspoon , divided.
- Parsley: (Optional) ¼ cup , chopped. Adds a fresh touch.
No smoked paprika? Don't sweat it! A dash of regular paprika and a tiny bit of liquid smoke (if you have it) will do.
This Homemade Chili Mac and Cheese is all about making it your own.
Equipment Needed: No Fancy Gadgets Required
You don't need a Michelin star kitchen for this Skillet Chili Mac .
- Large Pot: For boiling pasta.
- Large Skillet or Dutch Oven: For the chili. You can even make a One Skillet Meals doing it all together.
- 9x13 inch Baking Dish: Optional, for baking.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring.
No Dutch oven? No worries! A large, deep skillet will do just fine. And if you don't have a baking dish, just serve it straight from the skillet. Easy peasy!
Honestly, this Cheesy Chili Mac Recipe is so simple. Even I can't mess it up!
Alright, let's get this show on the road! Chili Mac and Cheese , eh? Sounds like a right proper "comfort food" extravaganza.
I'm picturing something that'll warm you from your boots to your bonnet. Honestly, who doesn't love a good bowl of chili mac and cheese recipe ?
Prepping Like a Pro: Your Mise en Place
First things first, getting your ducks in a row is key. Chop your onion and green pepper. Mince the garlic.
Rinse those beans. Get your spices measured. All that jazz. It’s all about the essential mise en place . This saves you from a mad scramble later.
Trust me, I've been there.
Time saving organization tips : I like to use little bowls for prepped ingredients. Keeps things tidy. Safety Reminder: Mind your fingers when chopping! Nobody wants a rogue digit in their Beef Chili Mac And Cheese .
Let's Get Cooking: The step-by-step
- Cook your elbow macaroni. Al dente is your aim. Drain 'em and set aside.
- Brown that ground beef in a large skillet. Drain the grease! Nobody wants greasy Skillet Chili Mac .
- Sauté onion and pepper until softened about 5 minutes usually does it. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Mmm, garlic.
- Stir in beans, tomatoes, sauce, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15 minutes . This is where the magic happens.
- Make the cheese sauce. Melt butter, whisk in flour ( 1 minute ). Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in most of the cheddar. Keep some for topping!
- Combine everything! Pasta, cheese sauce, chili. Stir it up.
- Bake at 350° F ( 175° C) for 15- 20 minutes , or until bubbly.
Pro Tips for Stellar Homemade Chili Mac and Cheese
Don't overcook your pasta! Soggy chili mac recipe is a no-no. Trust me, al dente is your friend.
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra kick. Because why not? This turns it in a Cheesy Chili Mac Recipe.
Common mistake to avoid: Not draining the grease from the beef. Seriously, don't skip this step. It will ruin the easy chili mac and cheese recipe .
This makes an awesome one skillet meals dish or baked casserole. Your family will cheer, guaranteed! It's a great quick chili mac and cheese , you know?
Recipe Notes For Your Killer Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe
Honestly, putting together this chili mac and cheese recipe is a breeze. I’ve made this so many times, I could practically do it with my eyes closed.
You know? Here are some thoughts for the best Homemade Chili Mac and Cheese .
Serving Suggestions: Level Up Your Comfort Food
Presentation can elevate this chili mac recipe . I love to dish it up in individual bowls. Top it with a dollop of sour cream.
A sprinkle of chopped green onions adds a pop of color. For sides? Think cornbread slathered in butter. Coleslaw cuts through the richness perfectly.
Or, a crisp green salad for a bit of freshness. Serve with your favourite drink!
Storage Tips: Keep the Chili Mac Love Alive
If you have leftovers and that’s a big if here's how to store it. Let the beef chili mac and cheese cool completely.
Then, pop it in an airtight container. It'll be good in the fridge for 3-4 days . Freezing is an option too! Just portion it out.
Then wrap well and freeze for up to 2 months . Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. I like to add a splash of milk when reheating to keep it creamy.
Variations: Tweak It 'Til You Love It
Got dietary needs? No worries! For a vegetarian chili mac recipe , skip the beef. Load up on extra beans and veggies.
Try zucchini or mushrooms! For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta. Also, use a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.
I’ve even seen people make a Skillet Chili Mac . Just skip the baking and serve straight from the pan.
Seasonal swaps can be fun. In the summer, grilled corn adds sweetness. In the fall, try adding butternut squash to the chili! Experiment and make this Cheesy Chili Mac Recipe your own.
Nutrition Basics: Fueling Your Comfort
Okay, let's get real. This Easy Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe is pure comfort. I don't know if it is the healthiest thing ever, right? It's packed with protein from the beef and beans.
Plus, you get calcium from the cheese. But, it's also got fat and carbs. So, enjoy it in moderation! Every now and then its a treat, and you should not feel guilty about that.
So there you have it! My tips for nailing this Quick Chili Mac and Cheese . This is one of the best One Skillet Meals for a cosy night.
Now go on and make some magic in the kitchen. I promise, you'll be glad you did.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chili mac and cheese recipe ahead of time? I'm having a right old knees-up on Saturday!
You certainly can, mate! Prepare the chili mac and cheese as directed, but stop before baking (if you're planning to bake it). Cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When you're ready to bake, add the remaining cheese on top and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed to ensure it's heated through.
This is a real time saver if you're expecting a crowd.
What are some good variations to this chili mac and cheese recipe? I fancy something a bit different, what?
Fancy a bit of a twist, eh? Absolutely! You could add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños for a spicier kick. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the ground beef and add extra beans or diced veggies like zucchini or mushrooms.
Different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack will also give it a lovely new flavour profile, bit like a new haircut!
How long does chili mac and cheese last in the fridge, and what's the best way to reheat it?
Chili mac and cheese will keep well in the fridge for 3-4 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. To reheat, you can use the microwave, but for best results, I recommend reheating it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, this keeps the pasta texture at its best.
Add a splash of milk if it seems a bit dry, like when you dunk your biscuit into your tea!
Is this chili mac and cheese recipe healthy? I'm on a bit of a health kick at the moment!
Whilst it's undeniably a comfort food, you can certainly make it a bit healthier! Using lean ground beef or ground turkey will cut down on the fat content. You could also opt for reduced fat cheese or add extra veggies to boost the nutrient content, similar to a good Sunday Roast, you can make small adjustments to ensure a healthier experience.
Can I freeze leftover chili mac and cheese? I always end up with more than I can manage!
Freezing is an option, but be aware that the texture of the pasta and cheese sauce might change slightly. The pasta can become a bit softer upon thawing. To freeze, let the chili mac cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer safe container or bag. It will last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Just like a hearty stew, it might need a little coaxing to get back to its best!
Chili Mac Cheese The Ultimate Mashup
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 600-700 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 30-40g |
| Fiber | 50-60g |
