Inflation Fighting Chili Mac
A hearty, budget-friendly chili mac packed with bold flavors, combining ground beef, beans, and spices, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground chuck in a skillet over medium heat.
- Combine the cooked ground beef with tomatoes, beans, chili powder, cumin, garlic salt, salt, and black pepper in a pot.
- Cook the chili mixture for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- While the chili cooks, boil the macaroni in salted water for 7 minutes, then drain.
- Serve the chili over the cooked macaroni.
Tips & Substitutions
For added richness, try using 80/20 ground beef instead of ground chuck. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Adjust the spice level by adding jalapeños or cayenne pepper. You can also experiment with different varieties of beans, like black beans or garbanzo beans, for varied flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Inflation Fighting Chili Mac with a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top and a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess. It pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. For a unique twist, consider serving it with a side of Pickle Dill Okra for a crunchy, tangy complement.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. You can also microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Inflation Fighting Chili Mac contains roughly 705 calories, with 32g protein, 120g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (137% of the Daily Value), and calcium (117% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2044mg per serving (89% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute macaroni with any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free options if needed. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose. Ensure it is al dente before adding it to the chili mixture.
How can I make this chili mac spicier?
To increase the heat, add diced fresh jalapeños or a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the chili mixture. You can also use a spicier chili powder or include a dash of hot sauce when serving to tailor the spice level to your preference.
Is it possible to freeze the chili mac?
Absolutely! You can freeze the chili mixture before adding the macaroni. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before mixing in the cooked macaroni.
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).