Homemade Creamy Chili Mac Recipe

Homemade Creamy Chili Mac Recipe: A Comforting and Delicious Dish

There’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of chili mac—a comforting combination of chili and macaroni that is both satisfying and filling. But when you make it at home, you can control the flavors, adjust the ingredients, and make it as creamy and flavorful as you want. This Homemade Creamy Chili Mac Recipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining the bold, rich flavors of chili with the creamy smoothness of a cheese sauce. It’s perfect for cozy nights, family dinners, or any time you’re craving something delicious and hearty.

Let’s dive into how to make this creamy, satisfying dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chili Mac

1. Creamy and Comforting: The combination of chili and mac and cheese creates a rich, creamy, and comforting dish that’s sure to please.
2. Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something delicious but don’t have a lot of time.
3. Customizable: You can adjust the spice level, add vegetables, or make it vegetarian. This recipe can be tailored to your taste preferences.
4. One-Pot Meal: This creamy chili mac comes together in just one pot, making cleanup easy and efficient.

Ingredients for Homemade Creamy Chili Mac

For the Chili:

• 1 lb ground beef (you can also use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed (or any beans you prefer)
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Salt, to taste

For the Mac and Cheese:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape you prefer)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (use sharp cheddar for extra flavor)
• 1 cup heavy cream (for a rich and creamy texture)
• 1 cup milk (whole milk works best for creaminess)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for thickening the cheese sauce)

Instructions: How to Make Homemade Creamy Chili Mac

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside. You can toss it with a little bit of olive oil to prevent sticking, but don’t worry about keeping it warm as it will be added to the