Hearty Chili Mac is a beloved comfort food that combines the rich flavors of chili with the comforting appeal of macaroni. Its roots can be traced back to the United States, where chili con carne, a spicy stew made with beef and chili peppers, gained popularity in the 19th century, particularly in the Southwest and Texas regions.

As time went on, variations of chili recipes emerged, and one of these variations included the addition of macaroni, turning the traditional chili into a heartier and more substantial dish. The marriage of chili and macaroni created a satisfying and comforting meal that quickly became a hit among families and food enthusiasts.

Today, Hearty Chili Mac continues to be a cherished dish at gatherings, potlucks, and family dinners, appreciated for its robust flavors and simplicity in preparation.

PREP: 20 MIN.

COOK: 1¼ HOURS

MAKES: 10-12 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 can (46 ounces) tomato juice
• 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 celery ribs, chopped
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon prepared mustard
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 2 cans (16 ounces each) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• ½ cup uncooked elbow macaroni

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a Dutch oven, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until the meat is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
2. Stir in the tomato juice and the undrained diced tomatoes into the cooked beef mixture in the Dutch oven.
3. Add the chopped celery, brown sugar, chili powder, salt, prepared mustard, and pepper to the mixture in the Dutch oven. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer.
5. Let the mixture simmer, uncovered, for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld and develop, creating a rich and delicious base for the Hearty Chili Mac.
6. After simmering for an hour, it’s time to add the kidney beans (make sure they are rinsed and drained) and the uncooked elbow macaroni.
7.  Allow the chili to simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender and cooked to your desired texture.
8. Once the macaroni is tender and the flavors have fully developed, your Hearty Chili Mac is ready to be served. Dish it up into bowls and savor the comforting blend of chili and macaroni goodness.

Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or a casual gathering with friends, Hearty Chili Mac is sure to warm both hearts and bellies, leaving everyone satisfied and content. Enjoy this classic comfort food with your loved ones, and create lasting memories around the table.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

• Cheesy Chili Mac Skillet: Scoop the Hearty Chili Mac into a well-greased oven-safe skillet. Top it with a generous layer of shredded cheddar or a blend of your favorite cheeses. Place the skillet under a broiler until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Serve the Cheesy Chili Mac Skillet with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro for added creaminess and freshness.
• Chili Mac Tacos: Heat up some soft taco shells or flour tortillas. Fill each taco with a generous portion of the Hearty Chili Mac. Top it with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapenos, and a drizzle of zesty lime crema (a mix of sour cream, lime juice, and a pinch of salt). These Chili Mac Tacos are perfect for a fun and flavorful dinner, offering a delightful twist on traditional taco fillings. Serve with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh avocado salad.