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CHILI MAC

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One-Pot Chili Mac Recipe: The Ultimate Comfort Food

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the hearty, satisfying goodness of a well-made chili mac. This one-pot meal combines the rich flavors of chili with the comforting texture of macaroni and cheese, all topped with a blend of Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. It’s easy enough to whip up for a weeknight dinner, yet delicious enough to serve at a family gathering. The perfect blend of spices, ground beef, and gooey cheese makes this chili mac recipe a standout favorite.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 (15-ounce) can dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 ½ cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, brown the ground beef. About halfway through the browning process, add the chopped onion. Continue cooking until the onion is soft and the beef is browned.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Reduce the heat and add the minced garlic, cooking for about 1 minute while stirring constantly. Drain any excess grease from the pan.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, beef broth, chili powder, ground cumin, and ground cayenne pepper. Bring to a low boil over medium-high heat.

Step 4: Cook the Macaroni

Add the elbow macaroni to the pot. Reduce to a simmer and cook until the noodles are tender, about 10-12 minutes.

Step 5: Season and Add Cheese

Season with salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste. Top with the shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese. Cover the pot and let the cheese fully melt.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with diced jalapeño, pickled or spicy bell peppers if desired, and serve hot.

Tips for the Perfect Chili Mac

Choosing the Right Meat

For a richer, juicier flavor, purchase ground chuck that is 80% lean and 20% fat. Ground turkey or ground pork can also be substituted for a different flavor profile.

Removing Excess Grease

A simple method to remove excess grease is to tilt the pan and use a paper towel to absorb the grease. This helps reduce the overall fat content of the dish.

Cooking the Pasta Separately

If you plan to save some of this chili mac for leftovers or freezing, consider cooking the pasta separately and adding it just before serving. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy when reheated.

Adjusting the Spice Level

If you love spicy food, feel free to add more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or a pinch of crushed red pepper. You can also substitute 2 tablespoons of chili seasoning for the individual spices.

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Experimenting with Cheeses

Other cheeses to try include sharp cheddar, pepper jack, and Mexican cheese blend. Each variety brings a unique flavor to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Top individual servings with Fritos, green onions, jalapeños, spicy or pickled bell peppers, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor and texture.

Storing and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave at reduced power to avoid drying out the pasta. For freezing, store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight. For best results, cook the pasta separately and add it just before serving.

Nutrition Information

  • Calories: 405 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Protein: 23 g
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 1 g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Cholesterol: 67 mg
  • Sodium: 531 mg
  • Potassium: 369 mg
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Vitamin A: 877 IU
  • Vitamin C: 1 mg
  • Calcium: 244 mg
  • Iron: 3 mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, ground turkey or ground pork can be used as a substitute for ground beef. Adjust the cooking time slightly as needed.

What type of pasta works best?

Elbow macaroni is traditional, but you can use other small pasta shapes like shells or rotini if you prefer.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make this chili mac vegetarian, omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of beef or chicken broth. You can add extra beans or vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for added texture and flavor.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chili portion in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the chili and cook the macaroni separately, combining just before serving.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. For freezing, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, corn, or zucchini can be added along with the onions for additional flavor and nutrition.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Increase the amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper, or add a few dashes of hot sauce. You can also top with sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.

This one-pot chili mac recipe is a perfect blend of hearty, comforting flavors that will warm you up on any night. Easy to make and full of deliciousness, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!

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