Introduction
Satisfy your cravings with a bowl of comforting Chili Mac. This hearty and flavorful dish combines the best of two worlds: chili and macaroni, creating a meal that’s sure to warm you up from the inside out. With its rich, savory sauce, tender ground beef, and perfectly cooked pasta, Chili Mac is the ultimate comfort food for chilly evenings or anytime you need a comforting meal.
History
Chili Mac has roots in American cuisine, combining elements of traditional chili with the addition of macaroni pasta. It’s a beloved comfort food that’s been enjoyed by families for generations, offering a satisfying and filling meal that’s both easy to make and delicious to eat. Our recipe pays homage to this classic dish while adding our own twist for extra flavor and texture.
Ingredients
Prepare to make Chili Mac with the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- Shredded cheddar cheese for garnish (optional)
- Chopped fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 2: Brown Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, stirring occasionally to break up any large chunks.
Step 3: Add Beans and Tomatoes
Once the beef is browned, add the drained and rinsed kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce to the pot. Stir to combine.
Step 4: Season Chili
Season the chili with chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, adjusting the seasonings to taste. Stir well to incorporate the spices into the mixture.
Step 5: Simmer
Pour the beef broth into the pot and bring the chili to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chili simmer for about 20-25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 6: Cook Macaroni
While the chili is simmering, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the cooked macaroni and set it aside.
Step 7: Combine Chili and Macaroni
Once the chili has finished simmering, add the cooked macaroni to the pot. Stir well to combine, ensuring that the macaroni is evenly coated with the chili sauce.
Step 8: Serve
Serve the Chili Mac hot, garnished with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped fresh cilantro or green onions, if desired. Enjoy the hearty and flavorful goodness of this comforting dish!
Conclusion
With its hearty combination of savory chili and tender macaroni, Chili Mac is a comforting meal that’s perfect for cozy evenings at home or gatherings with family and friends. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite toppings, this flavorful dish is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. Embrace the comfort of homemade cooking and savor the deliciousness of Chili Mac.