Are you craving a hearty, flavorful meal that's both satisfying and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this McCormick Chili Mac recipe! This isn't your average boxed mac and cheese; we're taking things up a notch with the bold, savory depth of McCormick chili seasoning. It's the perfect blend of comfort food nostalgia and sophisticated flavor, ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering. Get ready to experience chili mac like never before!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 tablespoons McCormick Chili Seasoning (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 4 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Remember, slightly undercooking the pasta is key, as it will continue to cook in the sauce.
Step 2: Build the Chili Base
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Brown the Meat
Add the ground beef to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 4: Simmer the Chili
Stir in the tomato sauce, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, McCormick chili seasoning, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce
In a separate saucepan, gently heat the milk over low heat. Do not boil. Once warm, gradually whisk in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked macaroni to the chili mixture and stir to combine. Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the macaroni and chili, stirring gently until everything is evenly coated and heated through. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired, and serve immediately.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chili Mac:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preference. For a milder chili mac, omit it entirely.
- Cheese Choice: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of Mexican cheeses would all be delicious additions.
- Meat Alternatives: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even lentils for a vegetarian option.
- Add Veggies: Boost the nutritional value and flavor by adding bell peppers, corn, or zucchini to the chili.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. For a general estimate, a serving contains roughly 400-500 calories, 20-25g of fat, and 30-40g of protein. For precise nutritional values, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredient quantities.
Variations:
- Baked Chili Mac: Transfer the chili mac to a greased baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Spicy Chili Mac: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Vegetarian Chili Mac: Replace the ground beef with 1 cup of cooked lentils or black beans.
This McCormick Chili Mac recipe is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. It's quick, easy, and packed with flavor – the perfect recipe for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals. Enjoy!