Craving a hearty, flavorful meal that's both satisfying and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this Southern Chili Mac recipe! This isn't your grandma's macaroni and cheese; we're taking that classic comfort food and kicking it up a notch with a spicy, savory chili twist. Get ready for a delicious journey into the heart of Southern cooking, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering. This recipe delivers a truly unforgettable taste experience, combining the creamy goodness of macaroni and cheese with the robust flavors of chili.
Ingredients:
This recipe yields about 6 servings.
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk or cream
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
Cook the macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside. Remember to slightly undercook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
Step 2: Brown the Beef and Sauté Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 3: Simmer the Chili
Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the flavors have melded beautifully.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Stir the cooked macaroni into the chili mixture. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Pour the milk or cream over the cheese.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with green onions, if desired.
Cooking Tips for the Best Southern Chili Mac:
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preferred level of heat. For a milder chili mac, omit the cayenne pepper altogether.
- Cheese Please: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of cheeses would also be delicious.
- Add some veggies: Boost the nutritional value and add extra flavor by including chopped bell peppers or corn to the chili mixture.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve this hearty dish with a side salad or some crusty bread for a truly satisfying meal.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Chili Mac: Replace the ground beef with 1 cup of cooked lentils or black beans for a vegetarian version.
- Turkey Chili Mac: Use ground turkey instead of ground beef for a leaner option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 450-500 Protein: 25-30g Fat: 20-25g Carbohydrates: 45-55g
This Southern Chili Mac recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes and healthy meals that are quick dinner ideas perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy the comforting flavors of homemade cooking with this delicious dish! It's one of the best recipes you'll find for a truly satisfying and flavorful meal.