Craving a comforting bowl of warmth that packs a punch? Look no further than Rick's Chili Mac Soup! This hearty American dish combines the rich flavors of chili with the satisfying texture of macaroni, making it a perfect meal for chilly nights or busy weeknights. With just 45 minutes from prep to table, you can whip up a deliciously filling soup that will have your family begging for seconds. Dive into this recipe and discover how to create a culinary masterpiece that will warm your heart and tantalize your taste buds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a small amount of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon, cooking until the meat is browned and no longer pink.
- Add the chopped onion to the browned beef and sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent and slightly softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, being careful not to let the garlic burn.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and beef broth. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Sprinkle in the chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to distribute the seasonings evenly throughout the mixture.
- Bring the soup to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes to develop the flavors.
- Add the elbow macaroni to the pot and stir. Continue cooking for an additional 8-10 minutes or until the pasta is tender and cooked through.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or chili powder to suit your preference.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the soup to slightly thicken.
- Ladle into bowls and serve hot. Optional: Garnish with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Tips
- Choose Quality Meat: For the best flavor, opt for lean ground beef. You can also substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Customize Your Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder based on your heat preference. For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Perfect Pasta: To prevent the macaroni from becoming mushy, add it to the soup towards the end of the cooking time. This way, it will retain its shape and texture.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Elevate your soup by garnishing with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.
- Make it Ahead: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep. Just reheat and enjoy!
- Freezing Tips: If you want to make a big batch, consider freezing individual portions. Just be sure to undercook the pasta slightly, as it will continue to cook when reheated.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your Chili Mac Soup with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 70mg
