How to Make Delicious Chili Macaroni | A Comfort Food Classic

Chili Macaroni is the perfect combination of hearty chili and comforting macaroni pasta. This dish combines the best of both worlds, making it a family favorite for dinner any night of the week. Whether you're looking for something quick and easy or a crowd-pleaser, chili macaroni is the way to go. Here's how to make it.

Components

For this chili macaroni recipe, you will need

For Chili

1. 1 pound ground beef

2. 1 large onion, chopped

3. 3 cloves garlic, minced

4. 1 bell pepper, chopped

5. 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans

6. 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes

7. 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

8. 2 tablespoons of chili powder

9. 1 tsp cumin

10. 1 tsp paprika

11. 1 teaspoon of salt

12. 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

13. 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)

For the macaroni

1. 2 cups elbow macaroni.

2. 4 cups of water (for boiling)

3. 1 teaspoon of salt (for boiling water)

Optional Toppings

1. Shredded cheddar cheese

2. Sour cream

3. Chopped green onions

4. Fresh cayenne pepper

5. Jalapeño slices

Instructions

Cook the macaroni

1. A large pot of water to a boil. Add 1 teaspoon of salt. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes.

2. Drain the macaroni and set aside.

Prepare the Chili

1. In a large pan or pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Once cooked, break it into small pieces. Once fully cooked, skim off any excess fat.

2. Add chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pan. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.

3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using). Cook for another 2 minutes so that the spices become fragrant.

4. Add the pumpkin beans, diced tomatoes (with their juices) and tomato sauce to the pan. Stir to combine.

5. Bring the mixture to a boil. Lower the heat and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, to allow the flavors to meld.

Combine and serve

1. Once the chili is ready, add the cooked macaroni to the skillet. Stir until the macaroni is well coated with the pepper.

2. Cook for another 5 minutes to make sure everything is heated through.

Garnish and enjoy

1. Serve the chili macaroni in bowls.

2. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, chopped green onion, fresh cilantro, and jalapeño slices as desired.

Tips for the Best Chili Macaroni

Make it Ahead Chili always tastes better the next day. Prepare the chili part a day ahead and just cook the macaroni and combine just before serving.

Adjust Heat 

Adjust the spice to your preference. Add more cilantro or fresh jalapeños if you like it hot, or leave them out for a milder dish.

Cheese is key 

Don't skimp on the cheese! A good melting cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack adds a creamy texture that complements the dish perfectly.

Vegetarian Option

Skip the meat and add more beans or some meat substitute like crumbled tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.

Chili Macaroni is a versatile dish that is sure to become a staple in your home. It's hearty, flavorful, and perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prep for the week. Try this recipe, and you may find it your new comfort food!