When I think of comfort food, my mind instantly drifts to a warm bowl of chili mac and cheese. It’s that perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness and hearty chili that warms you from the inside out. I remember the first time I made it—my kitchen filled with that mouthwatering aroma, and I couldn’t wait to dig in! This dish is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, making it perfect for cozy nights in or casual gatherings with friends. Trust me, once you try this chili mac and cheese, it’ll become a go-to in your recipe rotation!

Ingredients

For this delicious chili mac and cheese, you’ll want to gather a few simple yet satisfying ingredients. Start with 2 cups of elbow macaroni, which gives that classic pasta texture. You’ll need one 15 oz can of your favorite chili—don’t be shy to pick one with a kick! Next, grab 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese for that melty goodness. You’ll also need 1 cup of milk to make it creamy, along with 2 tablespoons of butter for richness. To add some flavor, include 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder and onion powder, plus salt and pepper to taste. That’s it—simple, right?

How to Prepare Chili Mac and Cheese

Making this chili mac and cheese is a breeze, and I promise you, it’ll be worth every minute spent in the kitchen. Let’s dive into the steps so you can enjoy this delicious dish as soon as possible!

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

First things first, let’s get that macaroni cooking! Boil a large pot of salted water (about 4-6 quarts) and add 2 cups of elbow macaroni. Cook it according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until it’s al dente. You want it to be firm enough to hold its shape once we mix everything together. Once it’s done, drain the macaroni and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a large pot over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Let it bubble gently, and then pour in 1 cup of milk, stirring it in with the melted butter. Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of onion powder to bring in that amazing flavor. Keep stirring for about a minute until everything is well combined and warmed through. It’s smelling good already, isn’t it?

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Now it’s time to add the star of the show! Stir in your cooked macaroni and the 15 oz can of chili into the sauce. Mix everything together thoroughly, making sure that every piece of macaroni is coated with that creamy, savory sauce. This step is crucial—don’t rush it, as you want all those flavors to meld together perfectly!

Step 4: Add Cheese

Here comes the cheesy goodness! Gradually stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into the mixture. You’ll want to keep the heat on low and stir continuously. It should become wonderfully gooey and smooth. If it’s not melting right away, patience is key—just give it a little more time!

Step 5: Season and Serve

Finally, season your chili mac and cheese with salt and pepper to taste. Give it one last mix to incorporate the seasoning. Serve it hot, and I promise, every spoonful will be a comforting delight. Enjoy your hearty bowl of chili mac and cheese, and don’t forget to savor the moment!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chili mac and cheese is a true winner in my kitchen, and here’s why I think you’ll love it just as much:

• Quick to prepare—ready in just 30 minutes!
• Hearty and comforting, perfect for chilly nights.
• Vegetarian-friendly, making it a great option for everyone.
• Easy to customize based on your taste preferences.
• Leftovers are just as delicious (if there are any!).

Tips for Success

To make sure your chili mac and cheese turns out perfectly, here are some of my favorite tips. First, don’t overcook the macaroni; keeping it al dente is key since it’ll continue to cook a bit when mixed with the hot sauce. Also, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese—Monterey Jack or pepper jack can add a fun twist! If your sauce seems too thick, just stir in a splash more milk until you reach that creamy consistency. And remember, taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning to your liking, and you’ll have a dish that’s just right for you.

Variations of Chili Mac and Cheese

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix up your chili mac and cheese! For a spicy kick, try adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. You can also swap out the cheddar cheese for a blend of Monterey Jack and gouda for a smoky flavor. Want to sneak in some veggies? Chopped bell peppers or spinach can add color and nutrients. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative and make this dish your own!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your leftover chili mac and cheese is super easy! Just transfer it to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge, where it’ll stay good for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat it in the microwave—just add a splash of milk to keep it creamy, and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. If you prefer, you can also warm it up on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently until it’s heated through. Enjoy those cozy leftovers!

Nutritional Information

Each serving of this chili mac and cheese is packed with flavor and satisfaction, providing about 450 calories. Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the brands of ingredients you use and your specific preparation methods. Enjoy this hearty dish knowing it’s not just delicious but also filling!

For more delicious recipes, check out this tomato soup recipe or this creamy pasta dish!

Chili Mac and Cheese: 5 Reasons It’s Comfort Food Bliss

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• Autor: Julia marin
• Całkowity Czas: 30 minutes
• Ustępować: 4 servings 1x
• Dieta: Wegańskie

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Opis

A comforting and hearty dish combining chili and mac and cheese.

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Składniki

Skala 1x2x3x

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 can chili (15 oz)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instrukcje

1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions.
2. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add milk, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir well.
4. Add the cooked macaroni and chili. Mix until combined.
5. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
6. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot.

Uwagi

• Use your favorite type of chili.
• For a spicier version, add jalapeños.
• Top with extra cheese or breadcrumbs for texture.

• Czas Przygotowania: 10 minutes
• Czas gotowania: 20 minutes
• Kategoria: Main Dish
• Sposób: Stovetop
• Kuchnia: American

Zasilanie

• Wielkość porcji: 1 cup
• Kalorie: 450
• Cukier: 2g
• Sód: 800mg
• Kwasy: 20g
• Nasycony tłuszcz: 10g
• Tłuszcze Nienasycone: 8g
• Tłuszcze trans: 0g
• Węglowodany: 50g
• Włókno: 3g
• Białko: 20g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Słowa kluczowe: chili mac and cheese