Ultimate Comfort Chili Mac
Indulge in this hearty and satisfying Ultimate Comfort Chili Mac recipe. Combining perfectly seasoned ground beef, tender macaroni, and a vibrant blend of spices and tomatoes, this dish is designed to warm you from the inside out. It’s a one-pot meal that’s both comforting and filling, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings with family and friends. The optional beans and green pepper add extra texture and nutrition, while the cheesy goodness takes this classic to the next level. Serve it up with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh herbs for an even more delightful experience!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Ground beef
1 - 1.5 lb (browned and drained)
Medium onion
1 (chopped)
Garlic clove
1 (minced)
Green pepper
1/2 (chopped (optional))
Diced tomatoes
28 ounces (canned)
Chili powder
2 teaspoons (none)
Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons (none)
Red beans or kidney beans
16 ounces (canned, drained (optional))
Salt
to taste (none)
Pepper
to taste (none)
Cooked macaroni
8 ounces (cooked according to package directions)
Instructions
1
Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente; drain and set aside.
2
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, stirring occasionally; drain excess fat.
3
Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onions are translucent and softened, about 3-5 minutes.
4
If using, add the chopped green pepper and stir for another 2-3 minutes until softened.
5
Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices), chili powder, Worcestershire sauce, and optional beans. Mix well to combine.
6
Cover the skillet and let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
7
Once simmered, gently fold in the cooked macaroni until evenly incorporated.
8
Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference.
9
Serve hot, garnishing with your choice of toppings.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ultimate Comfort Chili Mac?
It is a hearty one-pot meal that combines seasoned ground beef, tender macaroni, spices, and tomatoes for a satisfying comfort food experience.
How much ground beef is required for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 to 1.5 pounds of ground beef, which should be browned and drained.
Can I add beans to the Chili Mac?
Yes, adding 16 ounces of canned red beans or kidney beans is an optional way to add texture and nutrition.
What kind of tomatoes are used?
You should use 28 ounces of canned diced tomatoes, including their juices.
How long should the mixture simmer?
The skillet mixture should simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Is the green pepper mandatory?
No, the half of a green pepper is listed as an optional ingredient.
How much macaroni do I need?
The recipe requires 8 ounces of macaroni, cooked according to package directions.
What spices give this dish its flavor?
The primary flavor comes from chili powder, garlic, onions, and Worcestershire sauce.
How do I prepare the onions and garlic?
The onion should be chopped and the garlic clove should be minced before sautéing.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to cook the macaroni until al dente, drain it, and set it aside.
Should I drain the fat from the beef?
Yes, after browning the ground beef, you should drain the excess fat before adding other ingredients.
When do I add the cooked macaroni?
Gently fold in the cooked macaroni after the meat and tomato mixture has finished its 20-minute simmer.
What are some recommended toppings?
Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh herbs.
Can I substitute the ground beef?
While the recipe calls for beef, you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
How much Worcestershire sauce is used?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has a mild chili flavor from 2 teaspoons of chili powder, but you can adjust the heat to your preference.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, the flavors often improve the next day, though the pasta may absorb some of the liquid.
What if I don't have macaroni?
You can use any short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells as a substitute.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 11 total ingredients, including salt and pepper.
What size onion is recommended?
A medium-sized onion is sufficient for this recipe.
Do I need to rinse the beans?
The instructions recommend draining the canned beans before adding them to the skillet.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, you can easily add corn, celery, or extra peppers to increase the nutritional value.
Is this a family-friendly meal?
Yes, its comforting and hearty nature makes it an excellent choice for family dinners.
How do I prevent the pasta from getting too soft?
Cook the macaroni only until al dente since it will continue to soften slightly when mixed with the hot sauce.
What type of skillet should I use?
A large skillet with a lid is best for browning the meat and simmering the sauce.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, but you may need to add a bit of tomato juice or broth to compensate for the liquid in the canned version.
Is there a specific order for sautéing?
Brown the meat first, then add onions and garlic, followed by the optional green pepper.
How much chili powder is used?
The recipe calls for 2 teaspoons of chili powder.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, this recipe is easy to double for large gatherings or meal prep.
Is this a one-pot meal?
Yes, while the pasta is cooked separately, everything is finished in one large skillet for easy cleanup.