Cheesy Chili Mac
Vegetarian Cheesy Chili Mac Recipe from USA with Macaroni, Chili Beans, Tomatoes, and Bell Pepper
Introduction
Cheesy Chili Mac is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the flavors of cheesy macaroni and spicy chili. This hearty meal is perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering.
History
Cheesy Chili Mac is a popular dish in American cuisine, combining the classic flavors of macaroni and cheese with the bold and spicy flavors of chili. It is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit individual tastes, with variations including different types of cheese, spices, and toppings.
Ingredients
- 1 packet of macaroni & cheese dinner (Kraft)
- 1.5 cups of elbow macaroni
- 15 oz (425 g) of canned chili beans with spices
- 14.5 oz (411 g) of canned pasta-style tomatoes
- 1 bell pepper, coarsely chopped
- 1 onion, coarsely chopped
How to prepare
- Cook the macaroni from the box and the additional macaroni.
- Sauté the onion and green pepper in water.
- Add tomatoes and beans and heat through.
- Sprinkle the cheese powder over drained macaroni in a large bowl.
- Stir to coat.
- Mix in the hot bean mixture and stir well.
Variations
- Add ground beef or turkey to the chili mixture for extra protein.
- Top with crushed tortilla chips or shredded cheese for added crunch and flavor.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to cook the macaroni al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the chili.
- For extra flavor, consider adding some diced jalapenos or hot sauce to the chili mixture.
- To save time, you can use pre-made chili or canned chili instead of making it from scratch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Cheesy Chili Mac with a side of cornbread or a green salad for a complete meal.
Cooking Techniques
Be sure to stir the macaroni and cheese mixture well to ensure that the cheese powder is evenly distributed.
- Cook the chili mixture on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use any type of pasta in place of elbow macaroni.
- Feel free to use your favorite type of cheese in place of the cheese powder.
Make Ahead Tips
Cheesy Chili Mac can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Cheesy Chili Mac in individual bowls topped with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Cheesy Chili Mac pairs well with a cold beer or a glass of red wine.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers of Cheesy Chili Mac in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Cheesy Chili Mac contains approximately 350 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Cheesy Chili Mac contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Cheesy Chili Mac contains approximately 10 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Cheesy Chili Mac contains approximately 15 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Cheesy Chili Mac is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and calcium.
Alergens
Cheesy Chili Mac contains dairy and wheat allergens.
Summary
Cheesy Chili Mac is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It is also rich in essential vitamins and minerals.
Summary
Cheesy Chili Mac is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the best of macaroni and cheese with the bold flavors of chili. This versatile meal is perfect for any occasion and is sure to be a hit with family and friends.
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a moth to a flame. It was a chilly autumn day, and I was rummaging through an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As I flipped through the yellowed pages, a photo of a steaming bowl of Cheesy Chili Mac caught my eye. The combination of gooey cheese, hearty chili, and tender macaroni seemed like the ultimate comfort food.
I couldn't wait to try my hand at making this delicious dish, so I set out to gather all the ingredients. I made a list and headed to the grocery store, excitement bubbling in my chest. I carefully selected each item, making sure to choose only the best quality ingredients.
Back at home, I cleared off my kitchen counter and began to chop onions, garlic, and bell peppers. The sweet aroma of sautéing vegetables filled the air, making my stomach growl in anticipation. I added ground beef to the mix, browning it until it was cooked through and fragrant.
Next, I added a can of diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and a blend of chili spices to the pot. As the chili simmered on the stove, I cooked a pot of macaroni noodles until they were perfectly al dente. The cheesy sauce came together quickly, a mixture of sharp cheddar, creamy milk, and a touch of butter.
Once everything was ready, I combined the chili, macaroni, and cheese in a large baking dish. I sprinkled more cheese on top for good measure, then popped the dish into the oven to bake until the cheese was bubbly and golden brown.
When the timer dinged, I pulled the Cheesy Chili Mac out of the oven and marveled at how delicious it looked. The aroma was intoxicating, and I couldn't resist digging in right away. The first bite was pure bliss, the creamy cheese melting into the spicy chili and tender pasta.
As I savored each bite, memories of my grandmother flooded back to me. She was the one who had instilled in me a love of cooking, teaching me how to make her own recipes with patience and care. I remembered the countless hours we had spent in the kitchen together, laughing and sharing stories as we stirred pots and pans.
I realized then that this recipe was more than just a delicious meal. It was a connection to my past, a way to honor the traditions and memories that had shaped me into the cook I am today. I knew that this Cheesy Chili Mac would become a staple in my own recipe collection, a dish that I would pass down to future generations.
And so, as I polished off the last bite of Cheesy Chili Mac, I felt grateful for the culinary journey that had brought me to this moment. I knew that my grandmother would be proud of the cook I had become, and that her spirit lived on in every dish I created. It was a comforting thought, one that filled me with warmth and joy.
As I cleaned up the kitchen, I made a mental note to write down the Cheesy Chili Mac recipe in my own cookbook. I wanted to make sure that this beloved dish would be enjoyed by my family and friends for years to come. And as I closed the cookbook and put it back on the shelf, I couldn't help but smile at the thought of all the delicious meals that still awaited me. Cooking was my passion, my love, and my legacy. And I would continue to savor every moment of it, one recipe at a time.
Categories
| American Recipes | American Vegetarian | Cheese Recipes | Chili Bean Recipes | Dinner Recipes | Green Bell Pepper Recipes | Macaroni Recipes | Pasta Recipes | Vegetarian Recipes |