Chili mac is a delicious and hearty dish that combines two classic favorites – chili and macaroni and cheese. It’s a perfect way to use up leftover chili and create a whole new meal. In this blog post, we will go over different methods on how to make chili mac with leftover chili. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees a mouthwatering result. So, let’s dive in and turn that leftover chili into a comforting and satisfying chili mac dish!
Video Tutorial:
Why You Need to Make Chili Mac
There are several reasons why making chili mac with leftover chili is a great idea. First and foremost, it is a fantastic way to repurpose leftover chili. Instead of simply reheating the same chili for another meal, transforming it into a completely new dish adds variety and prevents boredom from eating the same thing over and over again.
Secondly, chili mac is a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, chili mac is guaranteed to be a hit. The combination of the rich and flavorful chili with the cheesy and comforting macaroni creates a winning combination that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Additionally, chili mac is a versatile dish. You can customize it to your liking by adding extra ingredients or toppings. Whether you prefer it spicy, cheesy, or packed with veggies, you have the freedom to make it your own.
Lastly, chili mac is a budget-friendly meal. Using leftover chili means you’re not wasting food and getting the most out of your ingredients. It’s a smart and economical way to stretch your meals and save money in the process.
Now that we’ve covered why making chili mac with leftover chili is a great idea, let’s explore different methods on how to make this mouthwatering dish.
Method 1: Making Chili Mac via Stovetop
Chili mac can be made easily on the stovetop with just a few simple steps.
Step 1: Gather your ingredients.
– Leftover chili
– Elbow macaroni
– Shredded cheese
– Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped cilantro, or crushed tortilla chips
Step 2: Cook the macaroni.
– Boil a pot of salted water and cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente.
– Drain the macaroni and set it aside.
Step 3: Heat up the leftover chili.
– In a separate pot, heat the leftover chili over medium heat until it comes to a simmer.
Step 4: Combine the chili and macaroni.
– Add the cooked macaroni to the pot of chili and stir until well combined.
– Continue to cook for a few more minutes until the flavors meld together.
Step 5: Add cheese and toppings.
– Remove the pot from the heat and sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the chili mac.
– Cover the pot with a lid to allow the heat to melt the cheese.
– Once the cheese is melted, remove the lid and add any desired toppings.
Pros:
1. Easy and quick stovetop method.
2. Requires minimal equipment and ingredients.
3. Allows for customization with various toppings and spices.
Cons:
1. May result in a slightly mushy texture.
Method 2: Making Chili Mac Using the Oven
If you prefer a baked version of chili mac, using the oven is a great option. It adds a crispy and golden layer of cheese on top, which elevates the dish to a new level.
Step 1: Gather your ingredients.
– Leftover chili
– Elbow macaroni
– Shredded cheese
– Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped cilantro, or crushed tortilla chips
Step 2: Cook the macaroni.
– Boil a pot of salted water and cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente.
– Drain the macaroni and set it aside.
Step 3: Heat up the leftover chili.
– In a separate pot, heat the leftover chili over medium heat until it comes to a simmer.
Step 4: Combine the chili and macaroni.
– Add the cooked macaroni to the pot of chili and stir until well combined.
– Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
Step 5: Add cheese and toppings.
– Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the chili mac, covering it evenly.
– Place the baking dish in a preheated oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Pros:
1. Adds a crispy and golden layer of cheese on top.
2. Allows for a hands-off cooking method while the oven does the work.
3. Creates a visually appealing presentation.
Cons:
1. Requires the use of the oven and slightly longer cooking time.
Method 3: Making Chili Mac Using an Instant Pot
For those who love the convenience of using an Instant Pot, this method is perfect for you. The Instant Pot allows for hands-off and efficient cooking, resulting in a flavorful and tender chili mac.
Step 1: Gather your ingredients.
– Leftover chili
– Elbow macaroni
– Shredded cheese
– Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped cilantro, or crushed tortilla chips
Step 2: Cook the macaroni.
– Add the macaroni and water to the Instant Pot.
– Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual pressure cook mode for half of the macaroni’s cook time (usually around 4-5 minutes).
– Once the cooking time is up, perform a quick release and drain the macaroni.
Step 3: Heat up the leftover chili.
– Press the sauté button on the Instant Pot and heat the leftover chili until it comes to a simmer.
Step 4: Combine the chili and macaroni.
– Add the cooked macaroni to the Instant Pot of chili and stir until well combined.
– Allow the mixture to heat through for a few more minutes.
Step 5: Add cheese and toppings.
– Turn off the Instant Pot and sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the chili mac.
– Put the lid back on the Instant Pot and let it sit for a couple of minutes to let the heat melt the cheese.
– Once the cheese is melted, serve the chili mac with desired toppings.
Pros:
1. Quick and hands-off cooking with the Instant Pot.
2. Results in tender and flavorful chili mac.
3. Easy cleanup with only one pot to wash.
Cons:
1. Requires an Instant Pot or other electric pressure cooker.
Method 4: Making Chili Mac Using a Slow Cooker
If you prefer a set-it-and-forget-it cooking method, using a slow cooker is the way to go. The slow cooker allows the flavors to meld together slowly, resulting in a rich and aromatic chili mac.
Step 1: Gather your ingredients.
– Leftover chili
– Elbow macaroni
– Shredded cheese
– Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped cilantro, or crushed tortilla chips
Step 2: Cook the macaroni.
– Boil a pot of salted water and cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente.
– Drain the macaroni and set it aside.
Step 3: Combine the chili and macaroni in the slow cooker.
– Add the leftover chili and cooked macaroni to the slow cooker.
– Stir until well combined.
Step 4: Cook on low for 2-3 hours.
– Set the slow cooker to low heat and let the chili mac cook for 2-3 hours.
– Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Add cheese and toppings.
– Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the chili mac.
– Cover the slow cooker with the lid and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the heat to melt the cheese.
– Once the cheese is melted, serve the chili mac with desired toppings.
Pros:
1. Requires minimum effort with a set-it-and-forget-it cooking method.
2. Allows the flavors to meld together slowly for a rich and aromatic chili mac.
3. Perfect for busy individuals or those who prefer hands-off cooking.
Cons:
1. Requires a slow cooker and longer cooking time.
What to Do If You Can’t Find Leftover Chili
If you don’t have any leftover chili but still want to make chili mac, don’t worry! There are a few ways to quickly whip up a chili base for your chili mac.
Option 1: Use canned chili.
– Purchase a can of your favorite chili from the grocery store.
– Heat the canned chili according to the instructions on the label.
– Proceed with the chosen method to make chili mac.
Option 2: Make a quick chili from scratch.
– Gather ingredients such as ground beef, onions, garlic, chili powder, cumin, diced tomatoes, beans, and any other desired spices or vegetables.
– Brown the ground beef in a skillet, then add onions and garlic and sauté until softened.
– Stir in the chili powder and cumin, followed by the diced tomatoes and beans.
– Simmer the mixture for about 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
– Continue with the chosen method to make chili mac, using the homemade chili as the base.
Bonus Tips
1. Add extra toppings: Get creative and top your chili mac with freshly chopped cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or some crushed tortilla chips for added crunch and flavor.
2. Mix up the cheeses: Don’t limit yourself to just one type of cheese. Experiment with different combinations such as cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a unique twist on the classic chili mac.
3. Freeze leftovers: If you end up with more chili mac than you can eat, portion it out into freezer-safe containers and freeze for future meals. It’s a convenient option for busy days when you don’t have time to cook from scratch.
5 FAQs
Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! While traditionally, elbow macaroni is used for chili mac, you can switch it up with other pasta shapes such as penne, rotini, or shells. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q2: Can I use vegetarian chili?
A: Yes, you can use vegetarian chili if you prefer. The flavors will still be delicious, and it’s a great option for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet.
Q3: Can I make chili mac ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make chili mac ahead of time. Prepare the chili mac as instructed, then let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer-term storage. To reheat, simply microwave or bake until heated through.
Q4: Can I add extra vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add extra vegetables to your chili mac for added nutrition and flavor. Bell peppers, corn, zucchini, or spinach all make excellent additions.
Q5: Can I make chili mac without cheese?
A: While cheese adds a creamy and indulgent element to chili mac, you can still enjoy it without cheese. If you prefer a dairy-free or vegan option, simply omit the cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free alternative.
Final Thoughts
Turning leftover chili into a comforting and delicious chili mac is a smart and tasty way to repurpose ingredients. Whether you prefer the stovetop, oven, Instant Pot, or slow cooker method, each approach guarantees a satisfying meal that is sure to please your taste buds. With the flexibility to customize toppings and add extra ingredients, you can create a chili mac that suits your preferences perfectly. So, the next time you find yourself with leftover chili, don’t hesitate to give chili mac a try and enjoy the mouthwatering flavors that this dish offers.