Chili Mac And Beef
Chili Mac and Beef is a hearty, comfort-food dish combining seasoned ground beef, tender macaroni, and a flavorful tomato-based chili sauce. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, it offers a satisfying blend of spicy, savory, and cheesy flavors that appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef, chopped onions, and chopped bell pepper in a large skillet or pot.
- Stir in the seasoning salt, canned tomatoes, water, and the entire packet of taco seasoning.
- Taste the mixture and add chili powder if additional spiciness is desired.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes until the macaroni is tender.
- If the mixture isn't saucy enough, add more water and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Chili Mac and Beef, consider using a combination of ground beef and ground turkey for a lighter option. If you want to add more veggies, try incorporating some frozen corn or black beans. Opt for whole wheat macaroni for added fiber. You can also use a spicy taco seasoning for an extra kick. For a creamier texture, stir in a bit of cream cheese at the end.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Chili Mac and Beef with a side of homemade cornbread or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal. Top each serving with shredded cheese, sour cream, or sliced jalapeños for added flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with a refreshing iced tea or lemonade, making it perfect for casual family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the mixture and warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, covered, for about 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Mac And Beef contains roughly 872 calories, with 48g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 59g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (96% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (71% of the Daily Value), and iron (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1466mg per serving (64% 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?
Yes, you can use any short pasta shape, such as penne or shells, instead of macaroni. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta used to ensure it's cooked al dente.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of Chili Mac, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. You can also add more beans and use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor.
What can I do if my Chili Mac is too thick?
If your Chili Mac turns out too thick, simply stir in additional water or broth a little at a time until it reaches your desired consistency. Remember to heat it gently after adding liquid to ensure everything is warmed through.
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).