Grandma’s Chili Mac is the ultimate comfort food, combining the heartiness of chili with the cheesy, satisfying goodness of macaroni. This one-pot wonder is perfect for chilly nights, family dinners, or anytime you want a cozy, nostalgic meal that’s packed with flavor. Plus, it’s super easy to make and only gets better with each bite!
Why You’ll Love Grandma’s Chili Mac
- Hearty and Filling: Ground beef, beans, and pasta make this a complete meal.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor!
- Family Favorite: The perfect mix of cheesy, savory goodness that everyone loves.
Ingredients for Grandma’s Chili Mac
Here’s everything you need to make this cozy dish:
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans or black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 1/2 cups beef or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven: For cooking everything in one place.
- Wooden spoon: For stirring and breaking up the ground meat.
How to Make Grandma’s Chili Mac
Step 1: Brown the Meat
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef (or turkey) over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Step 2: Build the Flavor
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), beans, tomato sauce, broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring to combine.
Step 3: Add the Macaroni
- Add the uncooked macaroni and stir well. Cover the pot and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed much of the liquid.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
- Once the macaroni is cooked, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese on top, cover, and let it sit for a couple of minutes until the cheese melts.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions, if desired. Serve hot, and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
Serve Grandma’s Chili Mac with a side of cornbread or a simple green salad to round out the meal. It’s also delicious topped with a dollop of sour cream or a few crushed tortilla chips for extra texture.
Tips for the Best Chili Mac
- Adjust the Spice Level: For a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
- Use Different Beans: Try pinto beans or a blend of beans for more texture and flavor.
- Make It Creamier: Stir in a little sour cream or cream cheese before serving for an even creamier dish.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use another type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! Small shapes like shells or rotini work well in this recipe.
Q2: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Yes! Just omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead. You could also add extra beans or diced veggies for more substance.
Q3: How can I make it extra cheesy?
A: Stir in an additional 1/2 cup of cheese at the end or top with a handful of shredded cheese before serving.
Cozy and Delicious Comfort in Every Bite!
Grandma’s Chili Mac is the ultimate comfort food for a reason. It’s easy, cheesy, and packed with flavor in every bite. Make this for your next family dinner, and watch it disappear!
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 430
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 6g
Grab a bowl, sit back, and enjoy the heartwarming taste of Grandma’s Chili Mac!
