Chili Mac

Chili Mac is a hearty, one-pot American comfort food that combines the best of two classics: chili con carne and macaroni and cheese. It typically features ground beef, elbow macaroni, a tomato-based chili sauce with spices like cumin and paprika, and is often topped with melted cheddar cheese. This dish is a staple of home cooking and casual dining across the United States, particularly popular in the Midwest and South.

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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

Chili Mac is a high-calorie, energy-dense meal that is rich in carbohydrates from the pasta, protein from the beef and beans (if included), and fat from the cheese and meat. A typical serving provides a significant amount of iron, B vitamins, and fiber, with a rough calorie count ranging from 400 to 600 calories per serving depending on portion size and ingredients.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	420 kcal
Protein	22 g
Carbs	45 g
Fat	18 g
Fiber	6 g
Sugar	8 g
Sodium	850 mg
Iron	3.5 mg
Calcium	150 mg
Potassium	550 mg
Vitamin A	450 IU
Vitamin C	8 mg
Thiamin (B1)	0.3 mg
Folate	60 mcg
Phosphorus	280 mg

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, Chili Mac represents a quintessential example of American 'fusion' comfort food, blending Mexican-inspired chili flavors with Italian-American pasta to create a uniquely satisfying dish. Nutritionally, it's interesting because it can be a complete meal in one bowl, offering a balance of macronutrients that makes it a popular choice for hearty, filling dinners.