Chili-Mac Supreme
Chili-Mac Supreme is a hearty, flavorful casserole combining tender macaroni, seasoned ground beef, kidney beans, and a spicy chili tomato sauce. Topped with melted Cheddar cheese, this comforting dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings that crave bold, satisfying flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef in a skillet.
- Boil macaroni until tender.
- Add chopped onion to the ground beef just before it is done browning.
- In a large kettle over low heat, combine tomato juice, chili powder, and salt.
- Allow the mixture to start simmering.
- Once simmering, add the cooked ground beef with onion and the kidney beans.
- Cook over very low heat for 1 hour.
- Top with shredded Cheddar cheese and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker version, use pre-cooked ground beef or substitute with turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also replace kidney beans with black beans or pinto beans based on preference. To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of garlic powder or some chopped bell peppers. This Chili-Mac Supreme is a great way to use leftover chili, making it a versatile dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chili-Mac Supreme with a side of cornbread or a crisp garden salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of sour cream or sliced jalapeños for an extra kick. Consider making it a meal prep favorite by serving it with your choice of bread for a hearty lunch option. This dish is a fantastic representation of classic American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or additional tomato juice if it seems dry. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 3 months, and reheat directly from frozen, adding time as needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili-Mac Supreme contains roughly 817 calories, with 38g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (119% of the Daily Value), calcium (79% of the Daily Value), and protein (76% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Chili-Mac Supreme ahead of time. Just cook it as directed, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. You can also freeze it after cooking for up to three months. When ready to serve, simply reheat and add the cheese before serving.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Cheddar cheese is traditional, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for a unique twist. Each cheese will bring its own flavor profile to the dish, enhancing the overall taste of the Chili-Mac Supreme.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by substituting the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative, and using vegetable broth instead of tomato juice. You can also add extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to add texture and flavor to your vegetarian Chili-Mac Supreme.
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).