Chili Mac with Smoky Chipotle Crema: A Quick Weeknight Dinner

Weeknight dinners often come with a time crunch, but that doesn’t mean you have to compromise on flavor. This Chili Mac recipe is the perfect solution! It combines the comforting flavors of chili with creamy macaroni and cheese, making it the ultimate hearty, satisfying dish.

Print

Whether you’re feeding your family or prepping a meal for one, Chili Mac comes together quickly and delivers a full-flavored meal in under 30 minutes. Plus, with a few special twists—like a rich chipotle crema and black beans—this version of Chili Mac takes the classic to the next level.

Why Make Chili Mac?

• Quick & Easy: A one-pot dish that takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish.
• Hearty & Comforting: With the perfect balance of chili’s spiciness and mac and cheese’s creaminess, it’s the perfect dish for cozy nights.
• Perfect for All Ages: From kids to adults, Chili Mac is a crowd-pleaser.
• Unique Touch: The addition of chipotle crema and black beans makes this Chili Mac unique and even more flavorful.

Ingredients:

• For the Chili Mac:
  • 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey (or use plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version)
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed (adds extra protein and fiber)
  • 1 packet chili seasoning mix (or use homemade chili powder)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (adds depth of flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (for the ultimate creamy texture)
  • 1/4 cup sour cream (for extra creaminess)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
• For the Chipotle Crema (new twist):
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon chipotle in adobo sauce (adds smokiness and spice)
  • 1 teaspoon lime juice (adds a tangy finish)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • New Twist: 1 teaspoon honey (for a sweet balance to the smoky heat of chipotle)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Begin by boiling the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chili Base:
   • In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
   • Add the ground beef or turkey to the pot and cook until browned. Break up the meat as it cooks to ensure an even texture.
   • Once the meat is cooked through, add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, black beans, chili seasoning mix, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Let the chili base cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3. Combine the Chili and Pasta:
   • Add the drained macaroni into the pot with the chili base. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream, mixing until the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Make the Chipotle Crema:
   • While the Chili Mac is simmering, prepare the chipotle crema by combining sour cream, mayonnaise, chipotle in adobo sauce, lime juice, salt, pepper, and honey in a bowl. Stir until smooth and well-combined. This crema will add a smoky, tangy layer of flavor to the dish.
5. Finish the Dish:
   • Once the Chili Mac is fully combined and creamy, serve it in bowls and drizzle with the chipotle crema for an extra kick. Garnish with extra shredded cheese, cilantro, or green onions if desired.

Helpful Notes:

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef or turkey with plant-based meat crumbles, or use lentils for a hearty vegetarian version.
• Cheese Variations: Try using a blend of cheeses such as Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even cream cheese for a more decadent, creamy texture.
• Make It Spicy: If you like more heat, add extra chipotle in adobo sauce to the crema, or sprinkle red pepper flakes on top.
• Meal Prep: Chili Mac is a great dish to make in advance. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture.

Storage and Reheating:

• Storage: Leftover Chili Mac can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, store the chipotle crema separately.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply warm the Chili Mac on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it’s too thick, add a little milk or broth to thin it out. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Variations:

• Add Veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for added nutrition and flavor.
• Top It Off: Serve with a side of cornbread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
• Smoky Flavor: For an even smokier depth, try adding a few drops of liquid smoke or a dash of smoked salt to the chili base.

Approximate Nutrition Facts (per serving):
Serving Size: 1 cup Chili Mac with Chipotle Crema

• Calories: 500
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Conclusion:

This Chili Mac Recipe for a Quick Weeknight Dinner is everything you want in a meal—comforting, quick, and full of bold flavors. The creamy cheese, smoky chipotle crema, and hearty chili base make it a filling dinner that’s perfect for busy evenings. The addition of black beans adds extra protein and fiber, while the honey in the crema perfectly balances the heat from the chipotle. Whether you’re making it for yourself or feeding a crowd, this dish will become your new go-to recipe.

Try this easy, flavorful Chili Mac and enjoy a delicious dinner in no time!