Kickin' Chili Mac & Cheese

Alright, let's get down to it, shall we? this kickin' chili mac recipe ? oh my gosh, it's about to be your new favourite comfort food.

I always ask myself, "what's better than a big bowl of cheesy goodness?"

Kickin' Chili Mac & Cheese : A One-Pot Wonder!

Honestly, not much! this isn't just any mac n cheese chili . it's a hearty hug in a bowl, proper comfort food.

We are using the flavors of the classic chili and the creamy charm of macaroni and cheese. this recipe is perfect for those chilly evenings when you just want something satisfying and easy.

Where Does This Fantastic Chili Mac Recipe Come From?

This chili mac recipe isn't exactly nouvelle cuisine. this beef chili mac and cheese is inspired by good old american comfort food.

It blends the best of both worlds. you know? it's like a cross between a classic chili and your favourite macaroni cheese.

Think of it as a culinary mashup! this is one of those 30min meals that everyone will enjoy.

What's the Level and Yield?

This is definitely an easy recipe! prep takes about 15 minutes, and cooking is around 25. so, in about 40 minutes, you've got a one skillet meal ready to serve.

This recipe makes about 6 generous servings. perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering.

Why You'll Love This Chili Mac

Honestly? it's the best of both worlds. you get the warmth and spice of chili combined with the creamy, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese.

Plus, it's a fantastic source of protein thanks to the beef and beans. it is even better than the hamburger helper chili mac recipe .

Serve it up on game day, for a potluck, or just a cozy night in. this dish is special because it takes familiar flavours and elevates them to create something truly memorable.

Many say it is better than the hormel chili mac and cheese . now, let's gather the ingredients!

Alright, let's dive into what you'll need to whip up this amazing chili mac recipe ! honestly, it's simpler than brewing a cuppa! we're making a cozy, hearty dish that rivals even those hamburger helper chili mac recipe packets.

Think of it as a leveled-up version, full of flavour and love!

Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Sorted!

Main Ingredients: The Heart of the Matter

Here's the breakdown of what you'll need to create this masterpiece. remember, quality counts, especially with the beef! you want a decent mince for a rich flavour.

We are making beef chili mac and cheese , after all!

For the Chili Base:

• Olive oil: 1 tablespoon (15 ml) – for sautéing
• Yellow onion: 1 medium (approx. 1 cup/150g) , chopped
• Ground beef: 1 pound (450g) – look for about 80/20 for flavor
• Green bell pepper: 1 (approx. 1 cup/150g) , chopped
• Garlic: 2 cloves , minced
• Kidney beans: 1 can (15 oz/425g) , rinsed and drained
• Pinto beans: 1 can (15 oz/425g) , rinsed and drained
• Diced tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 oz/410g) , undrained
• Tomato sauce: 1 can (8 oz/225g)
• Chili seasoning: 1 packet (approx. 1-1.25 ounces or 30-35g)
• Ground cumin: 1 teaspoon (5 ml)
• Smoked paprika: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml)
• Cayenne pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) – adjust to taste!
• Salt: 1 teaspoon (5 ml)
• Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml)
• Beef broth: 1 cup (240 ml)

For the Mac & Cheese:

• Elbow macaroni: 1 pound (450g) – essential for that proper mac feeling!
• Milk: 2 cups (480 ml)
• Unsalted butter: 4 tablespoons (60g)
• All-purpose flour: 4 tablespoons (30g)
• Cheddar cheese: 2 cups shredded (approx. 8 ounces/225g) - a mature cheddar makes a real difference
• Monterey Jack cheese: 1 cup shredded (approx. 4 ounces/110g)

Seasoning Notes: Spice It Up!

These are the flavour builders, mate! Don't skimp. A good chili seasoning blend makes life so much easier.

• Essential spice combinations : Chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika are your base. A little cayenne for kick!
• Flavour enhancers and aromatics : Garlic and onion always the dynamic duo. Smoked paprika adds depth.
• Quick substitution options : Don't have smoked paprika? Regular paprika works in a pinch. You can also add a dash of liquid smoke.

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple

We're aiming for a one skillet meals vibe here. No need for loads of washing up!

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Big enough to hold everything!
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring, of course.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy is key, innit?
• Can opener: A must have.
• Cheese grater: If you are using block cheese to get the best cheese melt.

Common household alternatives : Don't have a Dutch oven? A large stockpot works just fine.

Honestly, this chili mac recipe is so versatile, you can adapt it to what you have on hand. remember, cooking should be fun! it is comfort food, and great for 30min meals ! who needs the hormel chili mac and cheese when you can do this? you could end up with a tasty mac n cheese chili .

Remember, a good skillet chili mac is all about enjoying the process. now, let's get cooking!

Alright, let's get this show on the road! we're diving headfirst into a proper comfort food situation: a chili mac recipe .

Forget fancy, we're talking about easy, delicious, and something even your picky little cousin will wolf down. honestly, this is one of those 30min meals that's a lifesaver on a busy weeknight.

This is better than any hamburger helper chili mac recipe , hands down.

Kickin' Chili Mac & Cheese: Your New Weeknight Hero

This ain't your grandma's mac n cheese chili ... unless your grandma is secretly a culinary genius. we're talking creamy, cheesy mac meets hearty, flavourful chili.

It's the best of both worlds, innit? think cozy night in, netflix on, and a big bowl of this beef chili mac and cheese .

If you like hormel chili mac and cheese , then you're going to really love this homemade version.

Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place Magic

Before we even switch on the hob, let's get our ducks in a row. chop your onion, bell pepper, and mince your garlic.

Open those cans of beans and tomatoes. get your cheese grated, because pre-shredded just doesn't melt as nicely. it takes like 15 minutes to chop everything.

This essential mise en place is how we make this chili mac recipe a truly quick skillet meal!

Let's Get Cookin': step-by-step Chili Mac Awesomeness

1. Aromatics First: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Chuck in that chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for around 5 minutes , until softened. Add 2 minced cloves of garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
2. Brown the Beef (or Not!): Add 1 pound of ground beef to the pot. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned. If you're going veggie , skip this step and maybe add a can of lentils later on. Drain off any excess grease.
3. Chili Power Activate!: Stir in 1 (15 ounce) can of kidney beans, 1 (15 ounce) can of pinto beans, 1 (14.5 ounce) can of diced tomatoes, 1 (8 ounce) can of tomato sauce, 1 packet of chili seasoning, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 cup of beef broth.
4. Simmer Down Now: Bring to a simmer. Then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes , stirring occasionally. This is where the flavors get all friendly.
5. Mac Attack!: Stir in 1 pound of elbow macaroni . Bring it back to a simmer.
6. Cook the Mac: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 8- 10 minutes , or until the macaroni is cooked through. Give it a stir now and then to prevent sticking.
7. Cheese Sauce Time: In a separate pan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 4 tablespoons of flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in 2 cups of milk until smooth. Cook, stirring, until the sauce thickens (about 2- 3 minutes ).
8. Cheese Dreams: Remove from the heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar and 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese until melted and smooth.
9. Marry the Mac and the Chili : Pour the cheese sauce over the chili mac. Stir to combine. Serve immediately for the best Chili Mac And Cheese!

Pro Tips for Chili Mac Perfection

• Don't overcook the mac! Soggy pasta is a tragedy. Aim for al dente.
• Spice it how you like it! Adjust the cayenne pepper to your taste.
• Cheese matters! Use good quality cheese for the best melt and flavor.
• Try making ahead. It is a real one skillet meals hero

Alright, here are some recipe notes. Proper tasty, these are! Honestly, a chili mac recipe needs a bit of TLC.

Recipe Notes: Level Up Your Kickin' Chili Mac & Cheese!

Right, you've got your pot of bubbling goodness. Now what? Let's talk shop, shall we? There's more to this Chili Mac And Cheese malarkey than just chucking it all together.

Serving Suggestions: Presentation is Key, Innit?

Look, first impressions matter. Think about how you're gonna plate this up. A dollop of sour cream? Chopped green onions? A sprinkle of extra cheddar? Oh my gosh, yes!

Pair it with a crisp green salad. the acidity cuts through the richness. or, if you're feeling naughty, some garlic bread.

Complementary bevvies? a cold beer works wonders. as for drinks, sweet tea would do the trick.

Storage Tips: Keepin' it Fresh

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Pop that Beef Chili Mac And Cheese in an airtight container. It'll happily sit in the fridge for 3-4 days.

Want to freeze it? go for it! just let it cool completely first. reheating? microwave is your friend, but a low oven works too.

Add a splash of milk when reheating to bring back the creaminess.

Variations: Mix it Up, Mate!

Feeling adventurous? This chili mac recipe is begging for a twist. Make it veggie! Swap the beef for a plant based alternative. Or, throw in some spicy chorizo for an extra kick.

Want a hormel chili mac and cheese style meal? use hormel chili. dairy-free? no sweat! there's loads of vegan cheese options these days, and plant based milk works great too.

Remember the milk substitution suggestions!

Nutrition Basics: Fueling Your Body (and Soul)

Okay, let's be real. this isn't a kale smoothie. but it's still got some good stuff! fiber from the beans, protein from the beef.

.. it's all about balance, yeah? it's great for 30min meals . i reckon that there are loads of benefits.

Remember those estimated nutrition facts: Calories: 650-750, Protein: 35-40g, Fat: 30-35g, Carbohydrates: 60-70g, Fiber: 8-10g, Sugar: 5-7g, Sodium: 800-1000mg. Remember this is just an estimate!

And here is one interesting stat "Americans eat approximately 3.5 billion bowls of Mac N Cheese Chili each year!"

Right then! you've got the skillet chili mac goods. time to get cookin'! don't be scared to experiment. it is not just a hamburger helper chili mac recipe .

And you can always check out other one skillet meals for more ideas! get in that kitchen and make some magic happen! you got this!