Macaroni Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili with ground beef, tomatoes, beans, and spices, complemented by tender macaroni for a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet and drain excess fat.
- Place the cooked beef in a crock-pot along with all other ingredients except the macaroni.
- Cook on low for 8 to 10 hours to develop flavors.
- Cook the elbow macaroni separately until al dente.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the chili during the last 20 minutes of cooking before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. If you're short on time, use pre-cooked ground beef or ground turkey as a leaner alternative. You can also swap kidney beans for black beans or pinto beans based on your preference. To enhance the flavor, try adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder or a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the macaroni chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or sliced green onions for added flavor. This hearty dish pairs well with cornbread or a fresh side salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light appetizer like a fruit salad or some tortilla chips. It’s a comforting dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a buffet spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe dish for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni Chili contains roughly 798 calories, with 45g protein, 118g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (136% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (126% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1457mg per serving (63% 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 meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a healthier alternative to ground beef. You may also try using plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this macaroni chili vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or mushrooms. Additionally, you can use vegetable broth instead of tomato juice for a deeper flavor.
Can I freeze macaroni chili?
Yes, macaroni chili freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stove or in the microwave.
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).