How long does it take to make Easy Chili Mac Recipe?

Based on our recipe instructions, the total cooking time for Easy Chili Mac is approximately 30 minutes. You'll spend about 6-7 minutes browning the beef and softening the onions, then another 12 minutes cooking the macaroni until it's tender. The remaining time is used for mixing and simmering the ingredients.

What ingredients do I need for Easy Chili Mac Recipe?

You'll need the following ingredients to make Easy Chili Mac: 454 g lean ground beef, 120 ml chopped onion, 960 ml beef broth, 425 g can petite diced tomatoes, 425 g can tomato sauce, 1 1/2 tbsp chili powder, 2 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp sugar, 1/4 tsp ground black pepper, and 227 g uncooked elbow macaroni. For serving, consider shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, or other toppings you like.

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for 227 g of uncooked elbow macaroni, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like shells or rotini. Just ensure the pasta is cooked until tender, which should take about the same time as macaroni.

How should I store leftovers from Easy Chili Mac?

To store leftovers, allow the Chili Mac to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or water to maintain the dish's moisture, and heat it on the stove or in the microwave until hot.

What can I use as a topping for Easy Chili Mac?

For serving, you can top your Easy Chili Mac with shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream, which add creaminess and richness. Feel free to get creative with other toppings like chopped green onions, diced avocado, or a splash of lime juice to enhance the flavors further.

Is there a vegetarian alternative to this recipe?

To make a vegetarian version, you can replace the 454 g of lean ground beef with plant-based ground 'meat' or cooked lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and follow the same instructions. The flavors will still be delicious and satisfying!

Easy Chili Mac Recipe: Bold and Beefy One-Pot Wonder

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If you’ve ever found yourself smiling while stirring a simmering pot or sneaking a taste of cookie dough straight from the bowl, then you’re in the right place. The aroma of a comforting meal wafting through the kitchen is something I truly cherish. It’s a sensation that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, and I aim to recreate that feeling with every recipe I share.

One of my fondest memories involves making an easy chili mac recipe that quickly became a household favorite. It’s a dish that embodies both comfort and simplicity, bringing together the robust flavors of chili with the nostalgic texture of macaroni. This recipe doesn’t just fill the belly; it fills the heart with warmth and joy.

The beauty of an easy chili mac recipe lies in its ability to bring people together, especially on those busy weeknights when time is short, but appetites are large. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can create something truly special. Let’s dive into this delightful dish and discover why it has become a staple in my kitchen.

Easy Chili Mac Recipe

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Author: Aria
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Boiling
Cuisine: American

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Description

Discover a simple and delicious Easy Chili Mac Recipe that combines the flavors of chili and macaroni for a comforting and satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Ingredients

Cleaned Ingredients:
454 g lean ground beef
120 ml chopped onion
960 ml beef broth
425 g can petite diced tomatoes
425 g can tomato sauce
1 1/2 tbsp (23 ml) chili powder
2 tsp (10 ml) ground cumin
1 tsp (5 ml) garlic powder
1 tsp (5 ml) salt
1 tsp (5 ml) sugar
1/4 tsp (1 ml) ground black pepper
227 g uncooked elbow macaroni (about 2 cups)
For serving: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, etc.

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Instructions

Place the ground beef and chopped onion into a large saucepan and set it on medium-high heat. Use a wooden spoon to crumble the beef. Cook for 6-7 minutes, stirring here and there, until the beef is browned and the onions are tender.
Pour in the beef broth, add the diced tomatoes with their liquid, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, sugar, and black pepper to the beef mixture. Mix everything thoroughly. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil.
Incorporate the uncooked elbow macaroni. Let it gently boil, stirring from time to time, until the pasta becomes soft, which should take around 12 minutes.
Serve with shredded cheddar, sour cream, or your preferred toppings.

Notes

Consider using lean ground turkey for a healthier option.
Add bell peppers or corn for extra texture and flavor.
Adjust seasoning to taste with more chili powder or cumin.

Easy Chili Mac Recipe Essentials

Fundamentals

The foundation of a great chili mac starts with quality ingredients. Selecting lean ground beef ensures a flavorful yet healthier dish. Onions enhance the savory profile, while beef broth serves as a rich base for the sauce. Canned petite diced tomatoes and tomato sauce offer a balance of sweetness and acidity, essential for that classic chili flavor.

Chili powder, ground cumin, and garlic powder are the spices that elevate this dish, providing depth and warmth. Salt, sugar, and a pinch of ground black pepper round out the seasoning, ensuring a well-balanced taste. The uncooked elbow macaroni is the final touch, adding that comforting, chewy texture that defines this meal.

Preparation/Setup

Begin by gathering all your ingredients and utensils. You’ll need a large saucepan, a wooden spoon for stirring, and a measuring cup. Ensuring everything is within reach will streamline the cooking process. Prepping ahead by chopping the onions and measuring out the spices allows for a smooth, uninterrupted cooking experience. This initial setup is key to achieving that perfect simmer and blend of flavors.

Crafting the Perfect Chili Mac

Technique

Start by placing the ground beef and chopped onion in the saucepan. Set the heat to medium-high and use the wooden spoon to crumble the beef. This ensures even cooking and browning, which is crucial for flavor development. Cook for about 6-7 minutes until the beef is browned and the onions are tender, allowing the natural sugars in the onions to caramelize slightly.

Once the beef and onions are ready, pour in the beef broth. Add the diced tomatoes with their liquid, along with the tomato sauce. Next, stir in the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, sugar, and black pepper. Mixing these ingredients thoroughly ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil, which helps meld the ingredients together.

Tips/Tricks

For the best results, monitor the heat throughout the cooking process to maintain a gentle boil without overcooking the ingredients. Stirring occasionally as you incorporate the elbow macaroni helps prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. This not only ensures that the pasta cooks evenly but also allows the flavors to infuse into the macaroni.

If you find the dish becoming too thick, adding a splash more beef broth can help achieve the desired consistency. Remember, the macaroni will continue to absorb liquid even after cooking, so erring on the side of slightly more liquid can be beneficial. For more chili recipes, explore these delightful options.

Mastering the Art of Chili Mac

Perfecting Results

Achieving the perfect chili mac is about balance and timing. The key is to cook the macaroni just until it’s tender, which typically takes about 12 minutes. Overcooked pasta can become mushy, detracting from the dish’s texture. Keep an eye on the clock and taste-test as you approach the 10-minute mark.

Once the macaroni reaches the right texture, remove the saucepan from heat. Let the dish sit for a couple of minutes, allowing the flavors to settle and the sauce to thicken slightly. This resting period can transform a good chili mac into a great one, highlighting the depth of flavors and ensuring every bite is as satisfying as the last.

Troubleshooting/Variations

If you encounter issues such as overly salty flavors, a splash of water or additional tomatoes can help dilute the intensity. For those looking to experiment, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky undertone or a hint of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

For a healthier twist, you can swap the ground beef with turkey, inspired by this healthy turkey chili recipe. The versatility of chili mac allows for endless possibilities, making it easy to tailor the dish to your taste preferences.

Serving and Storing Your Chili Mac

Serving/Presentation

To serve, ladle the chili mac into bowls and let guests personalize their plates with toppings like shredded cheddar cheese or a dollop of sour cream. A sprinkle of fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley can add a pop of color and a fresh note.

For a delightful presentation, consider serving the dish in rustic bowls or adding a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. This enhances the dining experience, making it feel special and inviting.

Pairings/Storage

While an easy chili mac recipe stands beautifully on its own, pairing it with a side of zucchini patties can add a delightful contrast in textures. For storage, allow the leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. This dish can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for a month, making it perfect for meal prep and quick weeknight dinners.

When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or water to revive the sauce’s consistency. This ensures the chili mac remains as flavorful and satisfying as when it was first made. For a creative breakfast twist, consider incorporating leftovers into a sous vide style breakfast egg bites.

Conclusion

Mastering an easy chili mac recipe offers both utility and delight in the kitchen. Its simplicity and heartiness make it a go-to meal for busy nights or when comfort is needed. The harmonious blend of flavors and textures showcases how a few well-chosen ingredients can create a dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts.

Whether served fresh or enjoyed as leftovers, chili mac is a versatile dish that adapts to various occasions and preferences. Its ease of preparation combined with its rich flavor profile makes it a staple worth incorporating into your culinary repertoire. Explore more delightful recipes like this turkey chili to expand your menu with comforting, flavorful dishes.