Beef and Macaroni Chili

Beef and Macaroni Chili Recipe - A Hearty and Delicious Dish from the USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Beef and Macaroni Chili is a hearty, comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of ground beef with the classic texture of macaroni pasta, all enveloped in a savory chili-infused tomato sauce. This recipe is perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something warming and satisfying. It's a simple, yet delicious meal that can be easily prepared, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and casual gatherings.

History

The origins of combining pasta with chili can be traced back to the early 20th century, where it emerged as a popular dish among working-class families in the United States. It was an economical way to stretch out meat dishes and provide a filling meal. Over the years, this basic concept has evolved, incorporating various spices and ingredients, leading to the creation of the Beef and Macaroni Chili we know today. This dish reflects a fusion of Italian and American Southwestern culinary traditions, showcasing how cultural exchanges can lead to beloved recipes.

Ingredients

1 cup raw macaroni
0.5 lb (227 g) ground beef
0.5 tsp garlic powder
4 tsp chili powder (reserve 3 tsp for sprinkling)
1 pinch salt
1 pinch freshly ground pepper
1 can tomato soup or (1 cup tomato sauce, dissolved or mixed with 1 cup water)
1 oz (28 g) cheese (cheddar, colby, swiss, mozzarella, parmesan, or Manchego)

How to prepare

Cook the macaroni for about 7 minutes.
In a large saucepan, brown the meat and drain off all the fat.
Add garlic, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook on low for about 5 minutes.
Add the cooked macaroni and tomato soup or tomato sauce mixed with water. Heat thoroughly.
Just before serving, add grated cheese.
Cover and heat until the cheese melts.
Serve hot, plain, or with other dishes.
Sprinkle with chili powder, if desired.

Variations

There are numerous ways to vary this recipe to suit your taste preferences:
Add beans, such as kidney or black beans, for extra protein and fiber.
Include vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
Spice it up with additional chili powder, cumin, or diced jalapeños for those who prefer a spicier dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Beef and Macaroni Chili turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Use lean ground beef to reduce the amount of fat in the dish.

- Cook the macaroni al dente, as it will continue to soften when mixed with the hot chili.

- For a deeper flavor, consider toasting the spices before adding them to the meat.

- Adding a splash of red wine vinegar or a squeeze of lime at the end of cooking can brighten the flavors.

- Let the chili sit for a few minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Beef and Macaroni Chili can be served on its own or accompanied by a side of cornbread, a green salad, or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider topping the chili with sour cream, chopped onions, or additional cheese.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe involves basic cooking techniques such as boiling pasta, browning meat, and simmering ingredients together. For an added depth of flavor, consider sautéing the spices with onions and garlic before adding the meat.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of beef for a lighter version.

- Gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles can be used as a pasta substitute.

- Tomato sauce can be replaced with crushed tomatoes or tomato paste diluted with water.

Make Ahead Tips

Beef and Macaroni Chili is an excellent make-ahead meal. It can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave when ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the chili in a bowl topped with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. For a fun presentation, serve the chili in a bread bowl or topped on a baked potato.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a light, crisp salad to balance the richness of the chili. For beverages, consider a cold beer, a glass of red wine, or a refreshing iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chili over medium heat on the stove, adding a little water or broth if necessary to prevent sticking. The chili can also be reheated in the microwave.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Beef and Macaroni Chili contains approximately 350-400 calories. This makes it a relatively calorie-dense meal, suitable for those looking for a hearty and filling option.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Beef and Macaroni Chili contains approximately 30-35 grams of carbohydrates. The primary source of carbohydrates in this dish comes from the macaroni pasta. To reduce the carbohydrate content, consider using whole wheat pasta or a low-carb pasta alternative.

Fats

This dish contains about 10-15 grams of fat per serving, most of which comes from the ground beef. Using lean ground beef or ground turkey can help reduce the fat content. The cheese also contributes to the fat in the recipe, so opting for a lower-fat cheese can be beneficial.

Proteins

Beef and Macaroni Chili is a good source of protein, providing approximately 20-25 grams per serving. The ground beef is the primary source of protein, making this dish a satisfying option for those looking to increase their protein intake.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish offers a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from the tomato sauce, calcium from the cheese, and iron from the beef. Including a side of vegetables or a salad can further enhance the nutritional profile of the meal.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include gluten (from the pasta) and dairy (from the cheese). For those with allergies, gluten-free pasta and dairy-free cheese substitutes can be used.

Summary

Overall, Beef and Macaroni Chili is a balanced dish that provides carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It can be easily modified to suit various dietary needs and preferences.

Summary

Beef and Macaroni Chili is a versatile, comforting dish that combines the heartiness of ground beef with the classic appeal of macaroni pasta. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it's a perfect meal for any occasion. By following the tips and variations provided, you can easily customize this dish to suit your dietary needs and taste preferences.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately hooked. It was a chilly autumn evening and I was flipping through an old cookbook that belonged to my dear friend Martha. As I turned the pages, a recipe for Beef and Macaroni Chili caught my eye. The combination of hearty beef, tender macaroni, and savory spices seemed like the perfect comfort food for a cold night.

I remember asking Martha where she had gotten the recipe from, and she told me that it had been passed down to her from her grandmother. She said that it was a family favorite and always brought back fond memories of cozy nights spent around the dinner table.

I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish. So, I asked Martha if she would be willing to teach me. She was more than happy to pass on her family recipe and we spent the next few hours in her warm, inviting kitchen, chopping vegetables, browning beef, and simmering the chili to perfection.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, I couldn't help but marvel at how a simple recipe could bring back so many memories and create such a sense of comfort and warmth. From that day on, Beef and Macaroni Chili became a staple in my own kitchen, and I made it for my family whenever the weather turned cold.

Over the years, I have tweaked the recipe here and there, adding my own little touches and experimenting with different spices. I have also shared it with friends and neighbors, who always ask for the recipe after they have a taste. Each time I make it, I think of Martha and her grandmother, and how food has a way of connecting us to our past and creating new memories for the future.

One of my favorite memories of making Beef and Macaroni Chili was when my grandchildren came to visit during a particularly cold winter. They had never tried chili before and were a bit hesitant at first. But as soon as they took their first bite, their faces lit up with joy and they asked for seconds.

I remember sitting around the table with my grandchildren, telling them stories of how I learned to make the chili and how it had become a family tradition. They listened intently, hanging on my every word, and I knew that this recipe would be passed down to future generations, just like Martha had passed it down to me.

As I look back on all the recipes I have collected over the years, Beef and Macaroni Chili holds a special place in my heart. It represents not only delicious food, but also the love and memories shared around the dinner table. It reminds me of the joy of cooking and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones.

So, if you ever find yourself looking for a hearty and comforting meal to warm you up on a cold night, I highly recommend giving Beef and Macaroni Chili a try. It may just become a favorite in your own kitchen, as it has in mine. And who knows, maybe one day you'll be passing down the recipe to your own grandchildren, creating new memories and traditions for generations to come.