Chile-Mac
A hearty, flavorful chili-macaroni casserole combining beef, vegetables, and spices, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with a mild kick.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef, chopped green pepper, and chopped onion in fat.
- Add canned tomatoes and partially drained corn to the meat mixture.
- Combine salt, pepper, chili powder, sugar, and vinegar; stir into the meat mixture.
- Add cooked elbow macaroni and mix well.
- Turn switch to high until steaming freely, then reduce to low and cook for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also substitute bell peppers with jalapeños for added heat. If you prefer a creamier texture, add a splash of milk or cream before serving. This dish can be made in one pot, simplifying cleanup and enhancing the flavors. For a twist, try adding black beans or diced jalapeños.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chile-Mac with a side of cornbread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of shredded cheese and chopped green onions on top adds flavor and presentation. This hearty dish pairs beautifully with Texas Hash Casserole for a satisfying dinner or potluck spread.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warming. This dish also freezes well; just make sure to cool completely before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chile-Mac contains roughly 208 calories, with 4g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (26% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2302mg per serving (100% 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 make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make Chile-Mac vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with plant-based meat or lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of the fat, and add extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for texture. This will maintain the dish's heartiness while catering to vegetarian diets.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To adjust the spice level, you can increase or decrease the amount of chili powder used. For milder flavors, use less chili powder or opt for a mild variety. Conversely, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for more heat. Tasting as you go is key to achieving your desired level of spiciness.
What can I serve with Chile-Mac?
Chile-Mac is versatile and can be complemented with various sides. Consider serving it with crispy tortilla chips, a dollop of sour cream, or a fresh salad for contrast. For a heartier meal, pair it with Western Style Meat Loaf or serve with a side of garlic bread for a comforting dinner.
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).