Simple Chili Mac
The first time I made Simple Chili Mac, it was a chilly winter evening, and I wanted something warm and comforting for dinner. I had just come home from a long day, and the thought of creating a hearty meal was both exciting and daunting. As I rummaged through my pantry, I found all the ingredients I needed to whip up this delicious dish. It reminded me of cozy family gatherings where we would gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter over a steaming pot of chili mac. This dish became a staple in my home, and I can’t wait to share it with you!
Recipe Snapshot
35 mins
5 mins
30 mins
Medium
500 kcal
25 g
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
30 g
Blender, Oven, Large Pot, Saucepan, Chef’s Knife, Cutting Board, Wooden Spoon
What makes Simple Chili Mac so special is its rich, savory flavors and the fact that it’s a one-pot wonder. You can put everything together and let it simmer while you catch up on your favorite series or help the kids with homework. It’s a dish that truly fits into a busy lifestyle while still allowing you to enjoy a comforting meal. Plus, the combination of tender pasta, spicy chili, and melted cheese is utterly irresistible. Just a single bite will transport you to that comforting, homey feel you crave after a long day. You’ll want to make this a regular in your dinner rotation!
Why We Love This Simple Chili Mac
A Cozy Comfort Food
There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of Simple Chili Mac. It’s the perfect dish for cold winter nights when all you want is to curl up with a hearty meal. The combination of flavors meld together beautifully, creating a delicious symphony that warms your soul. Imagine sitting down with a steaming bowl, a sprinkle of cheese on top, and feeling all your worries melt away.
Easy to Make
This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With just a few ingredients and one pot, you can have dinner on the table in no time. It’s perfect for weeknights when you’re short on time but still want a wholesome meal. You’ll appreciate how quickly you can whip this up and get everyone fed!
Customizable
One of the best things about Simple Chili Mac is its versatility. You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste by using mild or hot chili powder. If you want to add some veggies, throw in some diced bell peppers or corn for extra color and flavor. This dish can be tailored to whatever you have on hand, making it a great go-to recipe.
Kid-Friendly
If you’re looking for a meal that your kids will love, look no further! The cheesy, creamy texture of Simple Chili Mac is sure to win over even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some protein and fiber with the addition of ground beef and beans, all while being absolutely delicious!
Great for Leftovers
This dish is perfect for meal prep as it reheats beautifully. Whether you have it for lunch the next day or save it for a busy weeknight, Simple Chili Mac tastes just as good the second time around. You can easily make a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week, making your life a little easier.
FAQ
Conclusion
In summary, Simple Chili Mac is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that brings warmth and joy to every meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and can be customized to suit your taste. I encourage you to give it a try, as I’m sure it will quickly become a favorite in your household. Share it with your loved ones and create your own cozy memories around the dinner table!
Simple Chili Mac
Equipment
- Blender
- Oven
- Large Pot
- Saucepan
- Chef's Knife
- Cutting Board
- Wooden Spoon
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 medium onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder see note
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 4 ounce can diced green chilies mild or hot
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 15 ounce can tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or evaporated milk
- 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
- 2 cups Mexican blend cheese or cheddar shredded
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
Instructions
- Add the beef and onions to a Dutch oven or soup pot over medium-high heat. Cook for 7 to 10 minutes, breaking the meat up with your spoon as you go along. If there's a lot of excess fat, spoon most of it out.
- Stir in the garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, and green chilies.
- Add in the beef broth, tomato sauce, and heavy cream, and increase the heat to high.
- Once it just starts to boil, add in the macaroni. Reduce the heat so it's rapidly simmering (I usually keep it around medium heat), and cook, uncovered, for 13 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked and the liquid has reduced. Stir it every couple of minutes to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- If the liquid seems to be disappearing too quickly before the pasta is cooked, or if you want it more soupy, add in 1/2 cup more broth and/or lower the heat.
- Take the pot off the heat and stir in the cheese. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
- If you need the liquid to absorb a little more prior to serving, simply cover the pot and let it sit for a few minutes. Optional: if you want a melty cheese layer on top, sprinkle on an extra 1/2 cup or so of cheese and cover the pot until it melts.
Notes
- Tip 1: Some varieties of chili powder can be spicy, but most are mild. Be sure to test it prior to making this recipe as it’ll make a big difference!
- Tip 2: I do not recommend subbing the heavy cream for a lower fat alternative as it’s likely to curdle. Evaporated milk can work in this recipe, but my top choice is the heavy cream.
