Indulge in the hearty and satisfying flavors of Hearty Chili Mac, a delicious recipe that is sure to please everyone at the table. Fannie Wehmas, from Saxon, Wisconsin, shares this delightful creation that not only makes a large batch but also freezes well, ensuring you can enjoy its deliciousness as excellent leftovers. As a retired farmwife, Fannie now enjoys her time traveling and volunteering, but her legacy lives on through this beloved recipe.
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 can (46 ounces) tomato juice
- 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 celery ribs, chopped
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon prepared mustard
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 2 cans (16 ounces each) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- ½ cup uncooked elbow macaroni
PREPARATIONS:
- In a Dutch oven, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until the meat is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the tomato juice, diced tomatoes, chopped celery, brown sugar, chili powder, salt, prepared mustard, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Add the rinsed and drained kidney beans and the uncooked elbow macaroni to the Dutch oven. Continue to simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the macaroni is tender.
YIELD: 10-12 servings
PREP/COOK TIME: 20 minutes (plus 1¼ hours of cooking time)
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS AND TIPS:
- For a leaner version, you can use ground turkey instead of ground beef.
- Customize the level of spiciness by adjusting the amount of chili powder to suit your taste preferences.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added color and nutrients.
- To enhance the flavor, consider using fire-roasted diced tomatoes or adding a dash of hot sauce.
- For those with dietary restrictions, you can use gluten-free elbow macaroni.
Hearty Chili Mac is a celebration of robust flavors and comforting goodness that will leave you coming back for second helpings. Fannie Wehmas, from Saxon, Wisconsin, has shared this cherished recipe that not only serves a crowd but also freezes well for future enjoyment. As a retired farmwife, Fannie now finds joy in her travels and volunteering, but her legacy lives on through the love and warmth of this delightful dish.
The combination of tender ground beef, chopped onions, and a medley of spices simmered in tomato juice creates a savory and aromatic base that sets the stage for the hearty ingredients to come. The addition of kidney beans provides protein and texture, while the uncooked elbow macaroni adds a delightful element of comfort to the dish.
This Hearty Chili Mac is not just a meal but a memory—a symbol of cherished gatherings and the joy of sharing delicious food with loved ones. Its versatility as a freezer-friendly option ensures that you can relish its delightful flavors as excellent leftovers, allowing you to enjoy the taste of comfort whenever you desire.
For a leaner version, ground turkey can be used instead of beef, and the spiciness level can be easily adjusted by customizing the amount of chili powder. The addition of other vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots can elevate the nutritional profile and add pops of color to the dish.
As you savor each spoonful of Hearty Chili Mac, let it remind you of the joyous moments spent with family and friends, gathered around the table, sharing laughter and creating cherished memories. Fannie Wehmas’ recipe encapsulates the essence of home-cooked goodness, making it a timeless classic that continues to warm hearts and bellies.
In conclusion, Hearty Chili Mac is more than just a recipe; it’s a legacy of love and togetherness. As you prepare and enjoy this comforting dish, take a moment to appreciate the joy of simple pleasures and the lasting impact of cherished family traditions. So, let this delightful recipe become a part of your own culinary legacy, bringing warmth and happiness to all who gather around your table.
