Kickin Chili Mac Cheese the Ultimate Comfort Food Mashup
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a chili mac and cheese recipe that's proper lush? I used to think chili and mac 'n' cheese were separate entities.
Honestly, now I see it is a game changer!. This chili mac recipe is cheesy, spicy, and totally comforting.
Brief Overview
Chili mac and cheese isn't tied to any specific country. It's an American inspired comfort food that just evolved over time.
It is super easy, even if you are a novice. It takes about an hour to make. This recipe serves six hungry people.
Main Benefits
This easy chili mac and cheese recipe is packed with protein and fibre from the beans and beef. It makes it a fairly healthy meal.
Perfect for a casual family dinner or a cheeky get-together with mates. What makes this beef chili mac and cheese special? It's proper versatile adjust the spice to your liking!
What is Chili Mac, Anyway?
You know, sometimes the best things in life are unexpected mashups. Chili Mac And Cheese is exactly that! It's where a hearty chili mac recipe meets a cheesy mac n cheese chili , and Honestly.
.. it's a match made in heaven. I swear. Think of it like a warm hug on a cold day.
Why This Recipe Works
Honestly, it's all about simplicity. This quick chili mac recipe doesn't require fancy ingredients or mad skills. It's a great way to use up leftovers.
It delivers maximum flavor with minimum effort. And the result? A cheesy bowl of comfort food recipes . It is just pure happiness, I can tell you.
The Secret to Proper Cheesy Chili Mac
The cheese sauce. It has to be lush and smooth. high-quality cheddar and Monterey Jack are key! Avoid pre-shredded cheese it doesn't melt as well.
Melt the cheese gently. It will keep the sauce thick. I once tried to rush it and ended up with a grainy mess.
Lesson learned!.
Right then, let's talk about what you'll need to whip up this belting chili mac and cheese recipe . Trust me, it’s easier than navigating the London Underground at rush hour.
Honestly, this homemade chili mac and cheese will blow your socks off! It is one of my favorites comfort food recipes .
Ingredients & Equipment for Your Kickin' Chili Mac
Main Ingredients: Sorted!
Okay, here's the breakdown, measured precisely because, well, baking ain't rocket science, but close!
- Chili time :
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (15 ml).
- Ground Beef: 1 pound (450g). Aim for 80/20 you want that flavour.
- Onion: 1 medium , chopped (150g).
- Garlic: 2 cloves , minced (about 6g). Fresh is best, innit?
- Green Bell Pepper: 1 , chopped (150g).
- Kidney Beans & Black Beans: 1 can (15 ounces/425g each), rinsed.
- Diced Tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 ounces/411g), undrained.
- Tomato Sauce: 1 can (8 ounces/227g).
- Spices: 1 tablespoon chili powder (15 ml), 1 teaspoon cumin (5 ml), ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (2.5 ml), ½ teaspoon dried oregano (2.5 ml), salt & pepper to taste (around ½ teaspoon and ¼ teaspoon respectively).
- Mac & Cheese Mania :
- Elbow Macaroni: 1 pound (450g).
- Butter: 4 tablespoons (56g).
- Flour: 4 tablespoons (30g), all-purpose.
- Whole Milk: 3 cups (710 ml).
- Salt & Pepper: ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) and ¼ teaspoon (1.25 ml)
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 8 ounces (225g), shredded.
- Monterey Jack Cheese: 4 ounces (113g), shredded.
Seasoning Notes: Let's Get Saucy
For me, the essential spice combo is chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Honestly, that's where the magic happens. A pinch of cayenne gives it a cheeky kick! If you fancy a quick chili mac recipe try to not hold back.
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple
You’ll need:
- A big pot for the pasta.
- A large skillet or Dutch oven for the beef chili mac and cheese .
- A saucepan for that lush cheese sauce. Honestly, a right cheese fest!
- Colander, cheese grater, 9x13 inch baking dish. That's it! Now you're ready to create this amazing skillet chili mac . I swear it's better than a takeaway. And this easy chili mac and cheese recipe can feed the family. And the best, you can make this mac n cheese chili in less than one hour.
Cooking Method: Chili Mac & Cheese Proper Lush!
Alright, let's get this chili mac and cheese recipe cracking! Think comfort food meets kick-in-the-pants flavor. It's gonna be smashing! Honestly, it's like a hug from your nan after a victorious football match.
Prep Like a Pro: The Mise en Place
First things first, you'll need all your bits and bobs ready. Chop your onion, mince your garlic. Grate your cheese.
Get your beans rinsed and drained. Trust me, having everything prepped saves a right palaver later. This essential mise en place will make cooking a breeze! This beef chili mac and cheese will be on the table pronto.
For time saving, measure out your spices in a little bowl. Honestly, it's a game changer. A quick note on safety: Don't be a numpty! Keep your knives sharp and your wits about you.
step-by-step: Chili Mac Magic
- Boil the macaroni in salted water until al dente . About 8 minutes . Drain it good.
- Brown that ground beef in your skillet. Drain the fat, nobody wants a greasy chili mac .
- Sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper in the same pan until softened. 5 minutes should do it.
- Stir in the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and spices. Simmer for 15 minutes .
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter and whisk in the flour. Cook for 1 minute . Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
- Simmer the cheese sauce until thickened. Add salt, pepper, cheddar, and Monterey Jack. Stir until melty.
- Combine the macaroni, chili, and cheese sauce in a baking dish or your skillet!
- Bake at 350° F ( 175° C) for 15- 20 minutes , until bubbly.
Pro Tips for a Belting Chili Mac
Want that extra oomph? Here are some expert techniques! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chili. This'll give you that extra kick.
This easy chili mac and cheese recipe is perfect for spice lovers.
Common mistake? Overcooking the pasta! Nobody wants mushy cheesy chili mac . make-ahead option? The chili can be made a day in advance.
Just reheat it when you're ready. This quick chili mac recipe will save you time. This recipe will make great comfort food recipes .
Also is perfect to do skillet chili mac . Enjoy the homemade chili mac and cheese .
Recipe Notes to Elevate Your Chili Mac & Cheese Game
Alright, you've got the recipe for my chili mac and cheese recipe , and I'm chuffed you're gonna give it a go! But before you dive in, let's chat about some insider tips to make this the best easy chili mac and cheese recipe you've ever tasted.
Serving Suggestions: Show it off!
Presentation matters, yeah? Forget chucking it on a plate. Think individual bowls topped with a dollop of sour cream. A sprinkle of fresh spring onions? Oh my gosh, YES! For a proper comfort food feast, pair it with some garlic bread.
Seriously, you need something to mop up that cheesy chili goodness! A simple green salad also cuts through the richness brilliantly, you know?
Storage Tips: Keepin' it Fresh
Leftover chili mac and cheese ? Lucky you! This homemade chili mac and cheese keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days in an airtight container.
The chili mac recipe is great reheated the next day! Just blast it in the microwave or oven. For freezing, portion it out before you freeze it and it works wonders.
Make sure it's fully cooled. When reheating from frozen, thaw it overnight and then reheat thoroughly.
Variations: Your Chili Mac And Cheese , Your Way!
Fancy a twist? Go veggie! Use plant based mince or load it up with extra beans and sweetcorn for a banging veggie option.
Want to make this a beef chili mac and cheese ? Why not add some Chorizo into the mix too for an extra kick? For a gluten-free version, just swap out the regular pasta for gluten-free elbow macaroni.
It is a great comfort food recipe ! It will change your world!
Nutrition Basics: The Good Stuff
Okay, let's be real, this isn't a salad. But it's packed with protein from the beef and beans. This cheesy chili mac also has calcium from the cheese, so it's not all bad, right?
Honestly, this quick chili mac recipe is proper easy, super satisfying, and you can totally make it your own. It's proper tasty and amazing! Get creative and enjoy this awesome skillet chili mac !
Now go on, get cooking! I'm sure you'll create magic!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chili mac and cheese recipe ahead of time? I'm a bit short on time during the week, you see.
Absolutely! You can prepare the chili and the cheese sauce separately a day or two in advance and store them in the fridge. When you're ready to eat, just cook the macaroni, combine everything, and bake it if you like, or simply heat it through on the stovetop.
It's a real time saver when you're knackered after a long day.
What can I substitute if I don't have Monterey Jack cheese for my chili mac and cheese?
No worries, mate! If you're out of Monterey Jack, a mild cheddar, mozzarella, or even Colby Jack cheese will work just fine. The important thing is to use a cheese that melts well and has a good flavour that complements the chili. Experimenting is half the fun!
How do I store leftover chili mac and cheese? Will it still be brilliant the next day?
Leftover chili mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, or reheat it gently in a saucepan on the stovetop with a splash of milk to loosen it up.
It's almost as good as the first day like a reheated cuppa, comforting and familiar.
I'm cooking for a crowd; can I double or triple this chili mac and cheese recipe?
Definitely! This recipe scales up beautifully for larger gatherings. Just be sure to use a large enough pot or baking dish to accommodate the increased volume. Keep an eye on the cooking time, especially if you're baking it, as it may need a few extra minutes to heat through completely.
You will be the host with the most!
How can I make this chili mac and cheese recipe healthier? I'm trying to be a bit more health conscious, you know?
To lighten things up, use leaner ground beef or substitute with ground turkey or chicken. You can also use whole wheat pasta, reduce the amount of cheese, or use low-fat milk in the cheese sauce.
Loading up on veggies in the chili, like extra peppers and onions, is another great way to boost the nutritional value without sacrificing flavour. Every little helps, eh?
My chili mac and cheese is a bit bland. How do I give it more of a kick?
Spice it up! A pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce will add some heat. You could also add a bit more chili powder, cumin, or smoked paprika for a deeper flavour. A squeeze of lime juice at the end can also brighten it up.
Consider adding some chopped jalapeños for a real wake-up call, just like a proper Full English!
Kickin Chili Mac Cheese The Ultimate Comfort Foo
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 650-750 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 35-45g |
| Fiber | 5-7g |
