Chili Mac And Cheese Recipe For Quick Comfort Meals

Name: Chili Mac And Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – 1 tablespoon olive oil; – 2 garlic cloves, minced; – 1 onion, finely chopped; – 1 red capsicum or bell pepper, chopped; – 500 grams (1 pound) lean ground beef (mince); – 800 grams (28 ounces) crushed canned tomatoes; – 420 grams (14 ounces) can red kidney beans, drained; – 2 1/2 cups (625 ml) beef broth (chicken broth also acceptable); – 250 grams (8 ounces) uncooked elbow macaroni pasta; – 2 cups (200 grams) shredded cheese (such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or tasty cheese); – 1/4 cup finely chopped coriander or cilantro for garnish; – 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or pure chili powder, adjustable to taste (for homemade chili powder spices); – 2 teaspoons paprika powder (for homemade chili powder spices); – 2 teaspoons cumin powder (for homemade chili powder spices); – 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder (can substitute garlic powder) (for homemade chili powder spices); – 1 teaspoon dried oregano (for homemade chili powder spices); – 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (for homemade chili powder spices); – 1 1/4 teaspoons salt (for homemade chili powder spices)

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Why You’ll Love This Chili Mac And Cheese

This one-pot wonder, Chili Mac and Cheese, combines the hearty, bold taste of ground beef chili with creamy macaroni for a dish that’s ready in just 25 minutes. It’s perfect for busy families who want a satisfying meal without the fuss, drawing from everyday kitchen staples to deliver big flavors. Whether you’re cooking for kids or craving something comforting on a chilly evening, this recipe brings joy to the table with its mix of spices and cheese.

Chili Mac and Cheese is packed with convenience, making it a go-to for quick dinners. With minimal prep and one pot to wash, it’s ideal for busy parents and working professionals who need something fast yet fulfilling. You’ll appreciate how this recipe supports a balanced diet, especially when you swap in lean options for better health benefits.

From its ease of preparation to its adaptability, this dish stands out as a versatile favorite. Health benefits include swapping lean ground turkey or adding extra beans for more protein and fiber, helping with muscle repair and keeping you full longer. Plus, its distinctive flavor profile with smoky spices and melted cheese makes every bite a delight for food enthusiasts of all kinds.

Jump To

1. Why You’ll Love This Chili Mac And Cheese
2. Essential Ingredients for Chili Mac And Cheese
3. How to Prepare the Perfect Chili Mac And Cheese: Step-by-Step Guide
4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Chili Mac And Cheese
5. Mastering Chili Mac And Cheese: Advanced Tips and Variations
6. How to Store Chili Mac And Cheese: Best Practices
7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Chili Mac And Cheese
8. Chili Mac And Cheese

Essential Ingredients for Chili Mac And Cheese

To create this comforting Chili Mac and Cheese, you’ll need a straightforward list of ingredients that blend seamlessly for a flavorful meal. This one-pot American dish features ground beef chili mixed with macaroni and cheese, ready in about 25 minutes and perfect for family dinners. Below is the comprehensive list of ingredients, formatted clearly so you can easily gather everything needed.

1 tablespoon olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 onion, finely chopped
1 red capsicum or bell pepper, chopped
500 grams (1 pound) lean ground beef (mince)
800 grams (28 ounces) crushed canned tomatoes
420 grams (14 ounces) can red kidney beans, drained
2 1/2 cups (625 ml) beef broth (chicken broth also acceptable)
250 grams (8 ounces) uncooked elbow macaroni pasta
2 cups (200 grams) shredded cheese (such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or tasty cheese)
1/4 cup finely chopped coriander or cilantro for garnish
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or pure chili powder, adjustable to taste (for homemade chili powder spices)
2 teaspoons paprika powder (for homemade chili powder spices)
2 teaspoons cumin powder (for homemade chili powder spices)
1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder (can substitute garlic powder) (for homemade chili powder spices)
1 teaspoon dried oregano (for homemade chili powder spices)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper (for homemade chili powder spices)
1 1/4 teaspoons salt (for homemade chili powder spices)

These ingredients create a hearty, flavorful mix that’s simple to prepare. For special dietary needs, you can adjust as mentioned in other sections, like using vegan cheese or gluten-free pasta. For more on beef nutrition, visit this helpful resource on beef benefits.

How to Prepare the Perfect Chili Mac And Cheese: Step-by-Step Guide

Gathering and Prepping Ingredients

First, get everything ready for your Chili Mac and Cheese to make cooking smoother. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and measure out the pasta and spices. If you’re adapting for vegan or gluten-free options, prepare those swaps now. This step sets you up for success in this quick 25-minute recipe.

Browning the Protein

Heat the olive oil in a large pot and brown the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. This adds depth to the dish and takes just a few minutes. Remember, you can swap in chicken, turkey, or lamb for variety, as suggested in the tips.

Sautéing Aromatics and Spices

Once the meat is ready, add the onion, garlic, and red capsicum to the pot. Let them cook until soft, then stir in the spices. This step builds the bold flavors that define Chili Mac and Cheese.

Building the Sauce

Pour in the tomatoes, beans, and broth, then add the pasta. Bring it to a simmer and let it cook covered for about 12 minutes. Check that the sauce stays saucy, as the pasta will absorb liquid adjust if needed for the best texture.

Adding Cheese and Finishing

Turn off the heat and mix in half the cheese, letting it melt into the mix. Top with the rest and cover briefly. Garnish with coriander and serve right away. For more pasta ideas, try this creamy beef pasta recipe on our site.

Resting and Serving

Let the dish rest for a moment to set, then dish it out. It’s ready for your family meal, with nutritional perks like high protein and vitamins per serving.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Chili Mac And Cheese

Chili Mac and Cheese is all about flexibility, letting you tweak it for different diets. Whether you’re going vegan or gluten-free, small changes keep the dish delicious. For instance, swap ground beef for lentils or plant-based crumbles to boost fiber and make it meat-free.

Protein swaps like turkey or lentils for a lighter take.
Veggies such as bell peppers or spinach to add nutrients.
Dairy alternatives like cashew cream for creamy vegan versions.

Adjust seasonings to control heat, and you can fit this into low-calorie plans easily. These options make Chili Mac and Cheese a hit for everyone from students to seniors.

Mastering Chili Mac And Cheese: Advanced Tips and Variations

Taking your Chili Mac and Cheese to the next level involves simple pro techniques, like browning the meat well for richer flavors. Use fresh spices for that homemade touch, and experiment with variations for fun twists. For example, try a smoky chipotle version or add roasted veggies for extra depth.

Flavor variations can include Mediterranean elements like feta and eggplant, changing things up while keeping the comfort. Presentation matters too serve in bowls with fresh garnishes for an inviting look. If you’re into casseroles, check out our mac and cheese meatloaf casserole for another hearty idea.

Tip Category	Suggestion
Cooking Technique	Brown meat fully for better taste
Storage	Freeze for up to 3 months
Variations	Add chipotle for smokiness

These tips ensure your dish turns out perfect every time, with adjustments for texture and cheese selection.

How to Store Chili Mac And Cheese: Best Practices

Proper storage keeps your Chili Mac and Cheese fresh and tasty. Cool leftovers quickly and store them in the fridge for 3-4 days, using airtight containers. For longer keep, freeze portions for 2-3 months and thaw overnight before reheating.

Reheat on the stovetop with a bit of broth to maintain creaminess, or use the oven for a crispy top. This makes it easy for meal prep, helping busy folks like students and working professionals.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Chili Mac And Cheese

What ingredients do I need to make Chili Mac and Cheese?

To make Chili Mac and Cheese, you’ll need olive oil, garlic, onion, red capsicum (or bell pepper), ground beef, crushed canned tomatoes, red kidney beans, beef or chicken broth, elbow macaroni pasta, shredded cheese, and coriander for garnish. The chili flavor comes from a homemade spice mix combining cayenne pepper, paprika, cumin, onion powder, dried oregano, black pepper, and salt. These ingredients create a hearty, flavorful dish that blends chili and cheesy pasta perfectly.

Can I freeze Chili Mac and Cheese and how do I reheat it?

Yes, Chili Mac and Cheese freezes well if stored in an airtight container for up to three months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then microwave until hot and steaming. Adding a little extra shredded cheese during reheating helps refresh the creamy texture. Because the dish is saucy, it retains moisture well after freezing and reheating, making it a convenient make-ahead meal.

How can I adjust the spice level in Chili Mac and Cheese?

The spice level primarily comes from cayenne pepper in the chili powder mix. You can reduce the heat by using less cayenne or skip it entirely for a milder version. To increase spiciness, add extra cayenne or a pinch of chili flakes. Adjusting the spice allows you to suit your taste preferences or accommodate family members who prefer less heat.

Can I substitute ground beef with other meats in Chili Mac and Cheese?

Yes, this recipe works well with various ground meats like chicken, turkey, pork, or lamb. Each meat will slightly change the flavor and fat content, but cooking times remain similar. Use lean meats if you want a lighter option, and properly brown the meat for the best texture and flavor before adding the sauce and pasta.

What’s the best way to cook pasta for Chili Mac and Cheese without making it mushy?

Cook the elbow macaroni until it is just al dente—firm but cooked through. In this recipe, the pasta finishes cooking in the residual heat of the sauce, so turn off the heat when the pasta is almost done, then stir in cheese and cover to let it melt. Avoid overcooking the pasta initially to prevent mushiness and maintain the perfect texture in the final dish.

One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe for Quick Comfort Food