Description

When the weather turns chilly or you simply crave something warm and hearty, there’s nothing quite like digging into a comforting bowl of Classic Chili Mac Recipe. This dish not only fills your stomach, but it wraps you in a nostalgic hug, reminding you of cozy family dinners and laughter around the table. Picture the sight of bubbling pasta and savory chili melded together, a symphony of flavors that brings warmth to both body and spirit. This recipe is more than a meal; it’s a beautiful moment waiting to happen—one you’ll want to share with loved ones on a cold evening.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
1 cup beef broth
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
3 cups elbow macaroni
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Optional toppings: sour cream, green onions, or jalapeños

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Beef

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. You want it to brown nicely, which adds an incredible depth of flavor to your chili mac. Stir occasionally, letting the beef sizzle and releasing those mouthwatering aromas. This process should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Once it’s cooked through, drain any excess grease, allowing only the flavorful bits to remain.

Step 2: Add the Aromatics

Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. These two ingredients will work their magic as they soften and caramelize, infusing the beef with bold flavors. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes. Watch as the onions turn translucent and the garlic becomes fragrant—your kitchen will start smelling amazing!

Step 3: Incorporate the Spices

Now it’s time to sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, and paprika. These spices will create that signature chili flavor that makes this dish truly irresistible. Stir them into the beef and veggies, allowing them to toast for a minute. This toasting will release oils and intensify their flavors, bringing warmth and depth to your chili mac.

Step 4: Pour in the Tomatoes

Add the diced tomatoes, their juices, and a bit of tomato sauce to the pan. Stir everything in until well blended. This is where the magic happens! The tomatoes will create a rich, robust sauce that will envelop the beef and pasta in pure deliciousness. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, so those flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

In a separate pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the elbow macaroni. Cook until just al dente, as it will continue cooking later in the oven. Drain the pasta and set it aside. It’s essential that it doesn’t overcook at this stage, or it may become mushy in the final dish.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Once the pasta is ready, add it to the meat mixture in the skillet. Stir everything together to ensure the pasta is well coated in the sauce. This is where you can truly appreciate the delightful combination of textures—creamy, hearty, and satisfying.

Step 7: Add the Cheese

Now, fold in the shredded cheese. Mix until it melts beautifully into the chili mac, creating a gooey, cheesy layer that binds everything together. The warmth of the dish will help the cheese ooze into every nook and cranny, enhancing that comfort food appeal.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the mixture into a baking dish and sprinkle a little extra cheese on top for that irresistible finishing touch. Pop it in a preheated oven and bake until bubbly and golden, about 15-20 minutes. This will allow the flavors to fully develop while giving that lovely cheesy crust you crave.

Notes

Serving Suggestions

Pair your chili mac with a simple side salad or some freshly baked bread to soak up those delicious juices. A dollop of sour cream or some chopped green onions on top can elevate the flavors even further.

Storage Tips

This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Consider making a double batch to enjoy later in the week. Just reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to get creative! Add some bell peppers or corn for extra veggies. You can even swap out the ground beef for turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter option.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes

Keywords: Chili Mac