Here is an appetizing introduction to the recipe, ranging from 350-500 characters, written before any headings. It should entice the reader and set the tone for the dish. Chili mac is a comforting classic that brings together the warmth of chili and the satisfying texture of macaroni. This one-pot meal is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Get ready to indulge in this delightful dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated cheese for topping
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, while cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. This is calculated for one person and includes a hearty mix of protein and carbohydrates.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until soft.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Add diced tomatoes and kidney beans to the pot.
- Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add macaroni and stir well.
- Cover and let cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Check macaroni for doneness; it should be al dente.
- Once cooked, remove from heat and let sit for a few minutes.
- Serve topped with grated cheese and cilantro.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground beef with ground chicken or a plant-based alternative. For a vegetarian option, use lentils instead of meat and vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
Chili mac pairs wonderfully with a side salad or cornbread. It can also be served with tortilla chips for added crunch or topped with jalapeños for extra heat. Enjoy with your favorite beverage for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover chili mac in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of broth if it seems dry.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the macaroni can make it mushy.
- Not seasoning enough can lead to bland flavors.
- Using too much liquid may result in a soupy dish.
- Forgetting to stir can cause sticking.
- Skipping the resting time can affect the flavors.
Helpful Tips
- Use a mix of beans for varied texture.
- Try adding hot sauce for extra spice.
- Top with sour cream for creaminess.
- Experiment with different cheeses for flavor.
- Prepare ahead for easy weeknight meals.
FAQs
Can I make chili mac in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can prepare chili mac in a slow cooker. Brown the meat and onions first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add macaroni in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Is chili mac spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. You can reduce the chili powder or add more ingredients like cheese or sour cream to mellow the heat.
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Substitute regular elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can easily make chili mac vegetarian by omitting the meat and using lentils or additional beans. Replace beef broth with vegetable broth for a rich flavor.
Can I add vegetables to chili mac?
Yes, feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn. Sauté them with the onions for a delicious and nutritious boost.
Conclusion
Chili mac is a delightful dish that combines the heartiness of chili with the comforting texture of macaroni. It’s easy to prepare, versatile, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to please. Enjoy the rich flavors and warm satisfaction of a classic chili mac!
Chili Mac Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 can 15 oz kidney beans, drained
- 1 can 15 oz diced tomatoes
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated cheese for topping
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until soft.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Add diced tomatoes and kidney beans to the pot.
- Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add macaroni and stir well.
- Cover and let cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Check macaroni for doneness; it should be al dente.
- Once cooked, remove from heat and let sit for a few minutes.
- Serve topped with grated cheese and cilantro.
