When you think of comfort food, Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac likely springs to mind. This dish combines rich flavors and hearty ingredients, creating a meal that warms both the body and soul. Gramma surely knows how to make a simple yet satisfying dish that brings everyone to the dinner table. With its creamy tomato sauce mingling with tender macaroni and a hint of sweetness from brown sugar, you’ll find yourself reminiscing about homemade meals and cozy family gatherings.
Why We Love This Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac Recipe
You’ll love Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac for its simplicity and the nostalgic feeling it brings. It’s one of those recipes that seem to have been passed down through generations, carrying a unique charm that modern meals often lack. The blend of macaroni, meat, and vegetables provides a hearty, filling dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl. Moreover, this recipe is very adaptable, allowing you to include extra vegetables or spices according to your family’s preferences. The ease of preparation and the straightforward cooking process make it a favorite for both novice and experienced home cooks alike, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a great meal with minimal fuss.
Ingredients about Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac
- 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
How to Make Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac Directions
To start your culinary adventure with Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac, bring a medium pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Carefully add 1 cup of elbow macaroni to the boiling water. Cook the macaroni until it reaches that perfect state of tender yet firm, which usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Once done, drain the macaroni and set it aside for later.
In another small saucepan, take your chopped celery and bell pepper and cover them with water. While on medium heat, bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. You’ll want to cook it until the vegetables are tender. After cooking, simply drain away the water.
Next, it’s time to turn your attention to the ground beef. In a large, heavy skillet, cook and stir the ground beef over medium heat. Break it apart as it cooks, until it turns crumbly and a lovely shade of brown. Once it’s cooked thoroughly, add in the chopped onion, stirring until it becomes tender and translucent. At this stage, it’s important to drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep your dish from becoming greasy.
Now, add the cooked celery and bell pepper to your beef and onion mixture. Stir in 2 cans of diced tomatoes—juice and all—along with 2 cans of condensed tomato soup and the kidney beans. To balance the flavors and add a unique sweetness, fold in the brown sugar, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Lastly, add the previously cooked macaroni into this flavorful mixture and stir until everything is evenly combined. Continue to cook on medium heat until it’s all heated through, and you can see the steam rising from the skillet.
How to Serve Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac
Once you’ve finished cooking your Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac, serving it is just as simple as making it. Grab your favorite bowls and serve the chili mac hot straight from the skillet. For a touch of color and extra flavor, consider garnishing each serving with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or shredded cheese. You can also offer some warm, crusty bread or delightful cornbread on the side, allowing everyone to savor each bite. This dish can be a centerpiece for a casual family dinner or even a game night gathering with friends, ensuring that your table is filled with both laughter and hearty eating.
Expert Tips: Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac
To get the best results from your Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac, here are some expert tips to keep in mind. First, use a good quality ground beef for a richer flavor; consider opting for lean beef to keep the dish lighter. Second, feel free to enhance the recipe by adding extra spices, such as chili powder, cumin, or even a pinch of cayenne for a kick of heat. You can also consider incorporating additional vegetables like diced carrots or zucchini for more nutrients and texture.
Moreover, don’t hesitate to experiment with different types of pasta; while elbow macaroni is traditional, shells or penne can also bring a fun twist to your dish. Lastly, for those who love a bit of crunch, serve the chili mac with crushed tortilla chips or a sprinkle of crispy onions on top.
How to Store Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac
Once you’ve enjoyed your Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac, storing any leftovers properly is essential to keep it fresh. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it for a longer period, consider freezing it. Divide the mac into smaller portions, place them in freezer-safe containers or bags, and store them in the freezer for up to 2 to 3 months. When you want to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain its creamy texture.
Variation of Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac
Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac is versatile in terms of customization to cater to varying taste buds. You may want to switch out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Consider using meat substitutes like lentils or quinoa for a vegetarian or vegan version that still packs ample protein.
You could also adjust the level of sweetness by either reducing or leaving out the brown sugar according to your palate. Adding more veggies like corn or diced green chilies not only enhances the taste but also makes your dish more colorful and nutrient-packed. Finally, if you’re feeling adventurous, spice it up with some jalapeños or diced bell peppers, giving your chili mac a delightful twist that aligns with your family’s flavor preferences.
FAQ: Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac
What are the main components of Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac?
Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac centers around elbow macaroni, ground beef, diced tomatoes, and kidney beans, all simmered together in a creamy tomato sauce.
How long does it take to prepare and cook Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac?
The entire process typically takes about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick and easy meal during busy weekdays.
Can I make Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for a couple of days or freeze it for longer storage, reheating before serving.
Is it necessary to use all the ingredients listed?
While the ingredients provide the traditional flavor, feel free to substitute or add according to your taste, making it uniquely your own.
How can I make Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac spicier?
To add some heat, consider including jalapeños or red pepper flakes in the cooking process, or serve it with hot sauce on the side.
Gramma’s Old-Fashioned Chili Mac is more than just a meal; it’s a warm reminder of home and family gatherings. With its flexibility and robust flavors, this dish invites you to make it your own, ensuring it remains a cherished recipe for years to come.
Gramma's Old-Fashioned Chili Mac
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
Vegetables
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 0.5 large green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 small onion, chopped
Meat
- 1 pound ground beef Use lean beef for a lighter option.
Canned Goods
- 2 cans (14.5 ounce) diced tomatoes
- 2 cans (10.75 ounce) condensed tomato soup
- 1 can (15 ounce) kidney beans, drained
Seasonings
- 0.125 cup brown sugar Adjust according to taste.
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Bring a medium pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add 1 cup of elbow macaroni and cook until tender, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a small saucepan, cook the chopped celery and bell pepper in water over medium heat until tender. Drain.
Cooking
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion to the beef and stir until tender.
- Mix in the cooked celery and bell pepper, diced tomatoes, tomato soup, kidney beans, and brown sugar. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in the cooked macaroni and heat through until steaming.
Serving
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley or shredded cheese. Accompany with warm bread or cornbread.
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