Cheesy Chili Mac combines homemade chili with cheesy macaroni noodles for a hearty, comforting meal with a bit of a kick.
Ingredients for Chili Mac
Ground Beef: This recipe uses ground beef, but it can be equally delicious with ground turkey, chicken, or pork.
Pasta: Elbow macaroni is used in this dish, but you can try making homemade pasta for an extra special touch.
Chili Seasoning: Store-bought chili seasoning works well, or you can prepare a homemade blend for added flavor.
Can I Freeze Cheesy Chili Mac?
Yes, Cheesy Chili Mac can be frozen. It makes a large portion, so if you won’t consume it within a few days, freezing is a great option. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it into freezer-safe bags. Be sure to label and date the bags. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months.
How to Store
Leftover Cheesy Chili Mac can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
Ingredients
Chili:
- ½ pound (225 grams) ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces / 425 grams) kidney beans, drained
- 1 can (14.5 ounces / 411 grams) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (15.25 ounces / 432 grams) corn kernels
- 2 tablespoons chili seasoning
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Macaroni:
- 8 ounces (225 grams) elbow macaroni, cooked al dente according to package instructions
- ¼ cup (½ stick / 60 grams) unsalted butter
- ¼ cup (31 grams) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (500 grams) whole milk, warmed
- 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground mustard
- ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional
- ½ cup (60 grams) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ¼ cup (30 grams) mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Chili:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the onion and ground beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes, or until the meat is no longer pink.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Drain excess grease as necessary.
- Add kidney beans, tomatoes, corn, chili seasoning, and salt. Stir to combine.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the chili is heated through (about 15-20 minutes).
Macaroni:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes, or until the mixture turns light brown.
- Remove from heat and gradually pour in the warm milk, whisking constantly.
- Return the pan to the heat and whisk for another 3-5 minutes, or until thickened.
- Add the salt, ground mustard, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Stir to combine. Remove from heat.
- Add the cheeses, stirring until fully melted.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked macaroni and stir to combine.
- Combine the macaroni and cheese with the chili. Stir to combine.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve.
Enjoy this hearty and delicious Cheesy Chili Mac for a comforting meal that’s sure to please!
