Chili Mac(30 Minutes)
Hearty and flavorful chili mac combines ground beef, tomatoes, and cheese with pasta for a comforting, spicy dish perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef and chopped onions in a large skillet over medium heat for 8 to 10 minutes.
- Pour off drippings from the skillet.
- Stir in canned tomatoes, 1/4 cup A.1. sauce, and chili powder.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, covered, for 10 minutes.
- Stir the chili mixture into cooked macaroni.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and shredded cheddar cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, use lean ground turkey instead of beef. If you prefer a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can also substitute canned tomatoes with diced fresh tomatoes for a fresher taste. Consider adding beans, like kidney or black beans, to boost fiber content, reminiscent of hearty American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chili Mac topped with extra shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or a simple side salad for a balanced meal. This dish is perfect for game day or a cozy family dinner, making it a wonderful choice for occasions like the Super Bowl.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out, and microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months, then thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Mac(30 Minutes) contains roughly 586 calories, with 17g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (41% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), and protein (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1380mg per serving (60% 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 substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or skip it entirely. Add extra beans or lentils for protein, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to maintain flavor. This adaptation makes it suitable for vegetarians while maintaining the hearty essence of the dish.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is traditional, you can use Monterey Jack, pepper jack for a spicy twist, or even mozzarella for a creamier texture. The cheese choice can influence the flavor profile, making it customizable to your taste preferences.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes along with the chili powder. You could also incorporate diced green chilies or hot sauce when mixing in the tomatoes. Adjust according to your spice tolerance for a customized kick.
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).