There’s something heartwarming about a comforting bowl of chili mac that brings back memories of lazy Sundays and family gatherings. Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac is a classic dish that combines rich, savory flavors with the satisfying texture of pasta. This recipe not only fills your belly but also nourishes your soul, creating a sense of nostalgia and warmth that’s hard to resist. With its mix of hearty ingredients, this dish is perfect for both busy weeknights and festive gatherings. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special and how you can recreate it in your kitchen.
Why We Love This Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac Recipe
What makes Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac stand out is its simplicity and the way it brings together comforting ingredients. The marriage of tender elbow macaroni, zesty ground beef, and hearty vegetables creates a delightful balance of flavors. Each bite is a reminder of home, invoking memories of laughter and happy conversations around the dinner table. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that warms the heart. Moreover, this recipe is incredibly versatile—easy to adapt based on what you have on hand, making it a go-to for many families. Whether you are looking to whip something up for an everyday meal or impress guests, this chili mac will surely be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients about Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac
To make Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 0.5 large green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 (14.5 ounce) cans diced tomatoes
- 2 (10.75 ounce) cans condensed tomato soup
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained
- 0.125 cup brown sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
These ingredients come together to form a dish that’s not only delectable but also packed with nutrition. Each element plays a vital role, contributing to the overall flavor and texture of the chili mac.
How to Make Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac Directions
Creating Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac is not only simple, but it also can be a fun experience in your kitchen. Here are the step-by-step directions to bring this family favorite to life:
- Prepare the Pasta: Begin by bringing a medium pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add 1 cup of elbow macaroni. Cook the pasta until tender, which usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. After cooking, drain the macaroni and set it aside.
- Cook Vegetables: In a separate saucepan, cover the chopped celery and green bell pepper with water and simmer until tender. This usually takes about 5 minutes. Once tender, drain the vegetables and set them aside.
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, cook the 1 pound of ground beef over medium heat until it is nicely browned. Be sure to break it up as it cooks for an even texture. Once browned, add the chopped onion and continue cooking until it becomes soft. Drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the dish light.
- Combine Ingredients: With the beef and onions ready, stir in the cooked celery and bell pepper. Next, add the diced tomatoes, with their juice, along with the condensed tomato soup and kidney beans. Mixing in 0.125 cup of brown sugar along with salt and pepper to taste enhances the flavor profile of your chili mac.
- Mix in the Pasta: Gently fold in the cooked elbow macaroni into the mixture, ensuring everything is well combined. Allow the dish to heat through, giving the flavors a chance to blend together. This step usually takes about 5 minutes on low heat.
- Ready to Serve: Once everything is hot, remove your skillet from heat. Your Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac is now ready to be served.
This process not only yields a delicious meal but also fills your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma that will have everyone excited to eat!
How to Serve Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac
Serving Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac is all about creating a satisfying and hearty presentation. Here are some simple ideas to make your dish visually appealing and irresistibly delicious:
- Fresh Garnishes: Top your chili mac with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. If you like, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top to add a creamy texture that perfectly complements the dish.
- Accompaniments: Serving your chili mac with warm bread or cornbread can elevate the dining experience. The crusty, buttery bread pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the chili mac, making each bite even more fulfilling.
- Portion Control: Serve the chili mac in generous bowls that allow you to appreciate the colors and textures of the dish. This is also a great way to ensure everyone gets enough to fill their plates.
With these serving suggestions, you can transform your Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac into a delightful centerpiece for any meal.
Expert Tips: Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac
To make the most out of your Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac, consider these expert tips:
- Ingredient Variations: Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences or what you have available. Adding diced carrots, zucchini, or corn can enhance the flavor and add nutritional value.
- Meat Swaps: While ground beef is traditional, you could easily substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Vegetarian ground meat alternatives can also work well if you’re aiming for a meat-free dish.
- Seasonings: Experiment with spices like chili powder, cumin, or paprika to amp up the flavor. A pinch of cayenne pepper can add a nice kick if you enjoy spicy dishes!
- Cook Ahead: This dish freezes wonderfully, making it a great option for meal prep. Consider making a larger batch and storing portions in the freezer for those days when you need a quick meal.
By following these tips, your chili mac will shine with flavor and satisfaction.
How to Store Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare because it’s so delicious!), storing your Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac is straightforward:
- Refrigeration: Allow the chili mac to cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers. Your chili mac can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Storing properly allows you to enjoy your delicious creation over several days without losing its flavor or texture.
Variation of Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac
One of the best parts about Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac is its versatility. Here are a few variations to consider that can add a fun twist:
- Cheesy Chili Mac: For extra creaminess, mix in shredded cheese into the chili mac during the last few minutes of cooking. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorites work beautifully.
- Spicy Chili Mac: If you prefer a little heat, add diced jalapeños or chopped green chilies to the beef as it’s cooking. You can also substitute regular crushed tomatoes with spicy versions for more of a kick.
- Vegetable-Loaded Chili Mac: To make it more of a casserole, consider layering your chili mac with shredded cheese in a baking dish, baking it until bubbly. Adding more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms can make it even heartier.
- Gluten-Free Chili Mac: Swap out the elbow macaroni for gluten-free pasta options, allowing you to enjoy this favorite dish without worries.
Each variation brings its own unique spin to the classic recipe, ensuring it never gets boring and continues to delight your taste buds.
FAQ
What is Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac?
Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac is a comforting dish that blends elbow macaroni, seasoned ground beef, vegetables, tomatoes, and kidney beans. It’s a hearty one-pot meal that is both satisfying and delicious.
How long does Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac take to prepare?
The preparation and cooking time for Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac is approximately 30-40 minutes, making it a quick and enjoyable option for any meal.
Can I make Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac in advance and easily reheat it when you’re ready to eat. It also freezes well for future meals.
What can I serve alongside Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac?
Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac pairs wonderfully with warm bread or cornbread and makes a great side dish with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.
Is Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac healthy?
This dish can be a healthy meal, especially if you include plenty of vegetables and choose lean meat. It offers protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a balanced meal option.
Gramma's Old-Fashioned Chili Mac
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup elbow macaroni Cooked until tender.
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 0.5 large green bell pepper, chopped Can substitute with other bell peppers.
- 1 pound ground beef Can be replaced with ground turkey or chicken if desired.
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 14.5 ounce cans diced tomatoes Include juice.
- 2 10.75 ounce cans condensed tomato soup
- 1 15 ounce can kidney beans, drained
- 0.125 cup brown sugar To enhance the flavor.
- to taste salt and pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by bringing a medium pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add elbow macaroni and cook until tender (about 8 to 10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In a separate saucepan, cover the chopped celery and green bell pepper with water and simmer until tender (about 5 minutes). Drain and set aside.
Cooking
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until nicely browned, breaking it up as it cooks for even texture.
- Add the chopped onion to the browned beef and continue cooking until soft. Drain excess fat from the skillet.
- Stir in the cooked celery, bell pepper, diced tomatoes with juice, condensed tomato soup, kidney beans, and brown sugar. Season with salt and pepper.
- Gently fold in the cooked elbow macaroni. Allow the dish to heat through, blending the flavors on low heat for about 5 minutes.
Serving
- Remove the skillet from heat and serve. Top with fresh parsley and shredded cheese if desired. Serve in generous bowls with warm bread or cornbread.
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