Chile Mac Ole
A hearty, cheesy chili macaroni dish combining tender pasta with spicy chili and melted cheese—perfect for quick weeknight dinners or comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, then drain.
- In a medium saucepan, heat the chili, drained tomatoes with green chilies, chopped green pepper, sliced green onions, and seasoned salt over medium heat until heated through, stirring frequently.
- Reserve 1/4 cup of shredded cheese for topping.
- Arrange the cooked macaroni on a serving platter.
- Pour the hot chili mixture over the macaroni.
- Top with the remaining shredded cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a spicy chili or adding a dash of hot sauce to the chili mixture. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the chili with a meatless version or use a hearty vegetable stew. Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for a kick or a blend of Cheddar and American for creaminess. Always taste and adjust seasoning to your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chile Mac Ole with a side of cornbread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole on top. For a fun twist, try serving it in baked tortilla bowls or alongside a zesty Mild Mustard Sauce for dipping. This dish is great for family gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out, and microwave in short intervals, stirring in between. You can also reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chile Mac Ole contains roughly 106 calories, with 6g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2105mg per serving (92% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer, such as shells, penne, or fusilli. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose to maintain the al dente texture.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add heat, consider using a spicier chili or incorporating diced jalapeños into the chili mixture. You can also sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper on top before serving. For an extra kick, try using pepper jack cheese instead of Cheddar.
Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
Yes! To lighten up the recipe, use whole wheat pasta and reduce the amount of cheese. You can also add more vegetables, such as diced zucchini or spinach, to increase the nutritional value. Consider using low-sodium chili to reduce the salt content.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).