Easy Chili Mac
A hearty and flavorful comfort dish combining pasta, ground beef, and beans in a spicy, savory sauce perfect for quick weeknight dinners and satisfying cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni in boiling water until al dente; drain.
- Brown ground beef in a skillet and drain excess fat.
- Add Sloppy Joes sauce and chili powder to the beef; stir well.
- Mix in drained kidney beans and cooked macaroni.
- Simmer the mixture for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding diced bell peppers or onions when browning the ground beef for extra flavor. If you're short on time, you can substitute the ground beef with turkey or a plant-based alternative. For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mix. This dish is a great way to utilize pantry staples and is as comforting as Aunt Marcie'S Chili.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili mac hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flair. It pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside a bowl of soup or your favorite dipping snacks. This dish is perfect for casual gatherings or a cozy family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Adding a splash of water or broth can help restore the desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Chili Mac contains roughly 558 calories, with 28g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (56% of the Daily Value), iron (30% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1034mg per serving (45% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chili mac ahead of time. Cook the macaroni and brown the ground beef, then combine everything except the macaroni and refrigerate. When ready to serve, mix in the macaroni and heat through until warm. This is perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights.
What can I substitute for the Sloppy Joes sauce?
If you don't have Sloppy Joes sauce on hand, you can substitute it with a mix of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and a bit of brown sugar or tomato sauce combined with spices like cumin and paprika. This alternative can mimic the sweet and tangy flavor profile of the original sauce.
Can I freeze chili mac for later?
Absolutely! Chili mac freezes well. To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove 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).