Chili Mac and Cheese is like a warm hug on a chilly evening. This satisfying dish combines the comforting flavors of classic mac and cheese with the hearty goodness of chili, making it perfect for weeknight meals or potlucks. It’s quick to whip up, budget-friendly, and sure to be a hit with the whole family. Plus, it brings that down-home Southern comfort we all love.
Why you’ll love this dish
Chili Mac and Cheese doesn’t just fill your belly; it fills your heart! This dish is all about convenience and flavor, making it an ideal choice for busy nights or when you want a delicious meal without a lot of fuss. It’s incredibly versatile and can easily please picky eaters or adventurous foodies alike. Just throw everything in one pot, and in under 30 minutes, you’ve got a meal that’s hearty enough to please even the hungriest family member.
"This dish has become a weekly staple in our house. My kids can’t get enough of it!"
How to Make Chili Mac and Cheese
Making Chili Mac and Cheese is as straightforward as it gets. You’ll be cooking up creamy, cheesy goodness while the pasta does its thing. Gather your ingredients, and let’s get started so you can enjoy this comforting dish in no time!
Ingredients
Gather these items for the yummiest Chili Mac and Cheese:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 can chili (15 oz)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: chopped green onions, jalapenos, sour cream
Feel free to swap out the cheese for your favorite blend or even use a dairy-free version!
Directions to follow
- Cook the macaroni according to the package directions; drain well.
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat until bubbly.
- Stir in the milk, chili, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until mixed well.
- Add the cooked macaroni and mix everything together thoroughly.
- Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve hot, garnished with optional toppings for that extra touch.
Best ways to enjoy it
Chili Mac and Cheese is delightful on its own, but a few garnishes can elevate your dish to the next level. Try some chopped green onions for freshness, jalapenos for a kick, or a dollop of sour cream for creaminess. Pair it with a simple green salad or some cornbread for a complete meal that’ll make your family feel right at home.
How to store and freeze
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is always a possibility with this irresistible dish), simply store your Chili Mac and Cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, just pop it in the microwave or heat it gently on the stove with a splash of milk to keep it creamy. If you want to make a larger batch, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just reheat it straight from the freezer, adding a little extra milk if needed.
Tricks for success
- Don’t overcook the macaroni: You want it al dente since it will continue to cook when mingling with the other ingredients.
- Add more cheese: If you’re like most cheese lovers, feel free to throw in extra if you want it extra cheesy!
- Mix it up: Try adding in some cooked ground beef, turkey, or even veggies to sneak in some extra nutrition.
Recipe variations
Feel free to get creative! Want a spicy kick? Add some diced green chilies or hot sauce to the mix. Prefer a smoky flavor? Toss in a bit of smoked paprika. For a healthier twist, substitute whole wheat pasta or add in some spinach. The possibilities are endless!
Common questions
What’s the prep time for this recipe?
Prep time is around 10 minutes, and cooking will take about 15 minutes, so you’ll have dinner ready in 25 minutes or less!
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap out the elbow macaroni for a gluten-free pasta option, and you’re good to go.
How do I reheat leftovers?
To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm it up gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to maintain that creamy texture.
Chili Mac and Cheese
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting dish that combines classic mac and cheese with the hearty goodness of chili, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 can chili (15 oz)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: chopped green onions, jalapenos, sour cream
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni according to the package directions; drain well.
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat until bubbly.
- Stir in the milk, chili, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until mixed well.
- Add the cooked macaroni and mix everything together thoroughly.
- Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve hot, garnished with optional toppings for that extra touch.
Notes
For extra flavor, add smoked paprika or diced green chilies.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 40mg