Chili Mac and Cheese

Why This Recipe Works

Chili Mac and Cheese is not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in bowl form. This recipe works because it expertly combines the hearty goodness of chili with the creamy, cheesy delight of mac and cheese. The fresh ingredients provide robust flavors, while the herbs and spices add warmth and depth. Moreover, the entire process comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

Jump to:

• Why This Recipe Works
• Why You’ll Love This Chili Mac and Cheese
• Ingredients for Chili Mac and Cheese
• Sautéing the Aromatics
• Cooking the Turkey and Vegetables
• Combining the Ingredients
• Simmering the Pasta
• Adding the Cheese
• Serving Suggestions for Chili Mac and Cheese
• Tips for Success with Chili Mac and Cheese
• Variations of Chili Mac and Cheese
• Storage Tips for Chili Mac and Cheese
• Pairing Ideas for Chili Mac and Cheese
• FAQs
• More Easy Main Dishes Recipes:
• 📖 Recipe Card

The use of ground turkey keeps it light, but you can easily switch it up for a vegetarian option. Also, the pasta absorbs the flavors beautifully, resulting in a dish that’s rich and satisfying. You get that creamy texture from the cheese and the comforting essence of chili all in one hearty serving.

Why You’ll Love This Chili Mac and Cheese

You’ll love this Chili Mac and Cheese because it feels like a cozy blanket on a chilly day. It’s fun to make and even more enjoyable to eat. When you take a spoonful, you will immediately feel the comforting warmth. The spices give just enough kick, while the hearty beans and meat (or veggies) provide a filling experience that you can relish.

Plus, with its cheesy goodness, you get that melty sensation that’s irresistible. Not to mention, it’s a great dish for gatherings, and everyone can dig in and enjoy! You might find yourself making it regularly, not just because it’s easy but because it tickles the taste buds and warms the heart.

Ingredients for Chili Mac and Cheese

• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 1 pound extra-lean ground turkey (or an additional can of beans for a vegetarian version)
• 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and diced
• 1 tablespoon chili powder plus 1 teaspoon additional chili powder
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• ¾ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken stock
• 1 (15-ounce) can low-sodium black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15-ounce) can low-sodium red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilis, undrained
• 2 cups uncooked whole wheat elbow macaroni noodles (about 8 ounces)
• 1 cup freshly shredded reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese (plus additional for serving)
• Sliced green onions for serving

Sautéing the Aromatics

To kick things off, heat the olive oil in a large, deep Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the diced onion. Sauté it until it starts to soften, which should take about 4 minutes. The aroma from the sautéing onion is already bringing warmth to your kitchen!

Cooking the Turkey and Vegetables

Next, add the ground turkey and jalapeño pepper to the pot. As you stir, mix in the chili powder, cumin, coriander, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook this blend while breaking apart the turkey until it’s fully cooked, which should take around 3 minutes. You’ll start to see everything come together as the spices infuse the turkey and veggies with flavor.

Combining the Ingredients

Now, it’s time to add in the good stuff. Stir in the chicken stock, black beans, kidney beans, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juices, and the uncooked macaroni. Bring this hearty mixture to a gentle boil. The colors and scents are about to transform this pot into something fantastic.

Simmering the Pasta

Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and allow it to cook until the pasta is al dente, which should take about 10 minutes. During this time, the pasta will soak up all those tasty juices while becoming perfectly tender.

Adding the Cheese

Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Give it a good mix until the cheese melts and creates a creamy texture. It’s the kind of moment where you might just want to sneak a taste; make sure you do!

Serving Suggestions for Chili Mac and Cheese

To serve, garnish with additional shredded cheese and sliced green onions. This adds a lovely touch and enhances the flavor. Consider pairing your Chili Mac and Cheese with a side salad or some warm garlic bread for a delightful, balanced meal.

Tips for Success with Chili Mac and Cheese

• For a uniform texture, ensure the ground turkey is finely crumbled.
• If you’re unsure about the spice level, you might want to leave out the jalapeño. It’s there for a creamy warmth without overwhelming the dish.
• Adjust the spices based on how spicy you want your meal.

Variations of Chili Mac and Cheese

There are numerous ways to make this dish your own. Swap the ground turkey for ground beef or turkey for different flavors. You could also use a mix of beans based on what you have handy, whether it’s pinto or navy beans.

For an extra nutritional boost, consider tossing in more veggies like bell peppers or corn. It adds texture and health benefits without sacrificing taste.

Storage Tips for Chili Mac and Cheese

Storing leftovers is easy. Just place your Chili Mac and Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 4 days. To reheat, do so gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken stock to restore its creamy allure.

Pairing Ideas for Chili Mac and Cheese

For a delightful meal, serve your Chili Mac and Cheese alongside a crisp green salad or cornbread muffins. Spicy pickles can add a surprising twist that balances out the flavors beautifully.

FAQs

1. Can I make Chili Mac and Cheese ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance. Just remember to reheat gently when you’re ready to serve.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be made gluten-free; simply swap the whole wheat macaroni for a gluten-free pasta option.

3. How can I make Chili Mac and Cheese vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, replace the ground turkey with an extra can of beans and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.

4. Can I freeze Chili Mac and Cheese?
Yes, just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can last for about 3 months.

5. How can I spice it up?
Want more heat? Consider adding crushed red pepper, extra jalapeños, or hot sauce to fit your taste preferences.

Chili Mac and Cheese is such a comfort food classic, blending the rich flavors of chili with the creamy goodness of mac and cheese. It’s perfect for any occasion, from a cozy family night to entertaining guests. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a delicious meal everyone will love. Enjoy every comforting bite!

More Easy Main Dishes Recipes:

• Tikka Masala with Spiced Meatballs
• Pan Fried Sesame Tofu with Broccoli
• Chicken Caesar Salad Dip
• Spring Pork Tenderloin

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