introduction
Creamy Chili Mac is a comforting and delicious dish that combines the beloved flavors of chili with the creamy goodness of macaroni and cheese. This recipe is perfect for those chilly nights when you want something hearty and satisfying.
why make this recipe
This recipe is a great choice because it is simple to prepare and full of flavor. It brings together easy-to-find ingredients that give you a hearty meal in less time than you might think. Plus, it’s a wonderful one-pot meal that makes clean-up a breeze!
how to make Creamy Chili Mac
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can kidney beans, drained
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
Directions:
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir and let simmer for 10 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a separate pot, melt the butter over medium heat, add the milk, and bring to a simmer. Stir in the shredded cheddar until melted and smooth.
- Combine the chili mixture with the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Stir well to combine.
- Serve hot and enjoy your delicious creamy chili mac!
how to serve Creamy Chili Mac
Creamy Chili Mac can be served straight from the pot. It’s great on its own, but you can also add toppings like sour cream, chopped green onions, or additional cheese for extra flavor.
how to store Creamy Chili Mac
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry.
tips to make Creamy Chili Mac
- Use lean ground beef to make the dish lighter.
- For added spice, include diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
- Feel free to swap out the beans or add more vegetables, like bell peppers or corn, to enhance the nutrition.
variation
You can make a vegetarian version by omitting the ground beef and using additional beans or lentils instead. You may also use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free dish.
FAQs
Can I freeze Creamy Chili Mac?
Yes, Creamy Chili Mac can be frozen. Make sure to allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will last up to 2 months in the freezer.
How can I make it spicier?
To increase the heat in your Creamy Chili Mac, add more chili powder, cumin, or include diced green chilies. You can also serve it with hot sauce.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is a fantastic choice, you can also try Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of your favorite cheeses for different flavors and textures.
Creamy Chili Mac
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef Use lean ground beef for a lighter dish.
- 1 can kidney beans, drained
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili powder Add more for extra heat.
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni Cook according to package instructions.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Other cheeses can also be used.
- 1 cup milk Add more if needed when reheating.
- 2 tablespoons butter Use for cooking milk and cheese.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir and let simmer for 10 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a separate pot, melt the butter over medium heat, add the milk, and bring to a simmer. Stir in the shredded cheddar until melted and smooth.
- Combine the chili mixture with the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Stir well to combine.
Serving
- Serve hot and enjoy your delicious creamy chili mac!