Chili Mac(A Pluma Bennett Favorite)
A hearty and flavorful chili mac featuring ground beef, kidney beans, and pasta, perfect for comforting family dinners and satisfying spice lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt shortening in a skillet.
- Add chopped onion, chopped green pepper, and ground beef.
- Cook until the beef is browned, about 15 minutes.
- Add cooked tomatoes, cooked kidney beans, salt, chili powder, and macaroni.
- Mix well.
- Cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese on top before serving. If you're looking for a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Additionally, you can use canned beans if you're short on time; just rinse them well before adding. Adjust the chili powder to your taste for a spicier kick.
Serving Suggestions
This Chili Mac pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or cornbread for a complete meal. You can also top it with diced green onions, shredded cheese, or a sprinkle of cilantro for added flavor. For a heartier option, serve alongside a bowl of soup or a side of roasted vegetables. It’s perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a covered dish until heated through. You can add a splash of water or broth to restore moisture if needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Mac(A Pluma Bennett Favorite) contains roughly 1035 calories, with 9g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 93g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), iron (21% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1937mg per serving (84% 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 substitute macaroni with any small pasta shape, like elbow, shells, or rotini. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose. Whole grain or gluten-free pasta can also work well, but be sure to follow package instructions for cooking times.
How can I make it spicier?
To increase the heat, you can add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mix. You might also experiment with adding more chili powder or using a spicy variety. Adjust according to your heat preference, and remember that toppings like pepper jack cheese can also add an extra kick.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, Chili Mac freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or microwave until hot.
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).