Are you ready to experience a delicious twist on a classic favorite? The indulgent Mapo Chili Mac combines the comforting creaminess of mac and cheese with the bold flavors of spicy Sichuan Mapo tofu. This unique fusion dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also brings a playful twist to your dinner table, making it an ideal option for both casual weeknight meals and special occasions.
Moreover, the versatility of this dish allows you to customize it to your liking. With its perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and heartiness, Mapo Chili Mac promises to be a hit among family and friends. Whether you’re an adventurous eater or simply love cheesy pasta, this mouthwatering recipe is bound to satisfy your cravings!
A Spicy Twist on Comfort Food:
Mapo Chili Mac brings an exciting kick to the classic mac and cheese. This delightful dish combines the creamy, cheesy goodness we all love with the bold flavors of spicy Sichuan Mapo Tofu. The result? A comfort food experience that warms your heart and tantalizes your taste buds!
To make your Mapo Chili Mac, start by cooking your favorite pasta until al dente, then toss it in a rich, spicy sauce made with ground pork, chili bean paste, and garlic. Don’t forget to add a splash of soy sauce for depth! Finish it off with a generous handful of cheese, allowing it to melt seamlessly into the dish.
For a complete meal, pair it with a fresh and vibrant Caprese Salad, which balances the heat with refreshing basil and tomatoes. This combination will leave everyone raving about your cooking skills! Embrace the fusion of flavors and enjoy your unforgettable Mapo Chili Mac today.
Ingredients for Mapo Chili Mac:
Prepare for a delicious twist on a beloved dish with these ingredients for Mapo Chili Mac. Start with:
- 12 oz. elbow macaroni
- 1 bunch of scallions (reserve dark and pale green parts for garnish)
- 2 Tbsp. vegetable oil
- 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 1 2″ piece of ginger, peeled and finely grated
- 1 lb. ground pork
- 2 Tbsp. ground Sichuan peppercorns (plus more for garnish)
- ⅓–½ cup doubanjiang (Sichuan-style fermented chili bean paste)
- 1 28-oz. can crushed tomatoes
- 12 oz. sharp yellow cheddar, coarsely grated (about 1½ cups, plus more for garnish)
- 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter
- Soy sauce (for additional seasoning; optional)
- Sour cream (for topping)
This fusion dish combines rich flavors and comforting pasta. If you’re looking for more creative ideas, check out this Bowtie Pasta recipe. It offers a creamy option that’s equally satisfying!
Gather these ingredients to delight your taste buds with a unique spicy and cheesy experience. Ideal for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings, Mapo Chili Mac is sure to impress.
How to Prepare Mapo Chili Mac:
For a spicy twist on classic macaroni and cheese, Mapo Chili Mac combines rich flavors with creamy ingredients. Start by cooking 12 oz. of elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add 4 thinly sliced garlic cloves and a 2-inch piece of finely grated ginger. Sauté until fragrant. Then, introduce 1 lb. of ground pork, cooking until it’s browned.
Next, add 2 tablespoons of ground Sichuan peppercorns and ⅓ to ½ cup of doubanjiang, stirring for a few minutes. Pour in a 28 oz. can of crushed tomatoes to create a sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer before stirring in the grated sharp yellow cheddar (about 1½ cups). As it melts, mix in 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter for extra creaminess.
To serve, incorporate your cooked macaroni and optionally season with soy sauce. Top with sliced scallions and a dollop of sour cream for a perfect finish. For more delicious pasta recipes, check out this Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Velveeta Beef Sauce.
For a detailed version of this dish, consider checking the comprehensive recipe on Epicurious. Enjoy your fiery and innovative culinary creation!
Serving Suggestions for Mapo Chili Mac:
Enhance your dining experience with some delightful serving suggestions for your Mapo Chili Mac. To complement its spicy flavor, serve it alongside a refreshing Caprese salad. The contrasting textures of juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella will balance the heat from the chili mac perfectly. For a heartier side, consider pairing it with crispy cornmeal fish. The crunch of the fish will add an exciting dimension to your meal.
Additionally, a side of buttery garlic bread makes for a comforting touch, ideal for soaking up those rich flavors. Finally, if you want to round off the meal, prepare a simple dessert like no-bake mini banana cream pies. This sweet finish will leave your guests smiling. With these serving ideas, your Mapo Chili Mac will be a hit at any gathering!
Storage Tips for Mapo Chili Mac:
To maintain the delightful flavors and textures of your Mapo Chili Mac, proper storage is crucial. Allow the dish to cool completely before storing it. You can use an airtight container for both short and long-term storage. For meals that you’ll enjoy within a few days, store them in the refrigerator. It’s best to consume your chili mac within three to four days to ensure freshness. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Divide the dish into portions, and wrap each in plastic wrap before sealing in a freezer-safe container. This method prevents freezer burn and helps retain its delicious taste.
When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, simply thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. If you’re interested in another hearty meal, try this Cheesy Potato Kielbasa Casserole for a comforting addition to your menu. Remember, storing your meals correctly not only preserves taste but also makes them convenient for busy days.
Nutritional Information:
Mapo Chili Mac combines rich flavors with satisfying ingredients, perfect for a quick meal. A typical serving contains around 450 calories, offering a balanced blend of carbs, proteins, and fats. With a hearty dose of fiber and protein, it’s nutritious yet indulgent. For a delightful side, consider pairing it with a crisp Caprese Salad to elevate your dining experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is Mapo Chili Mac?
Mapo Chili Mac is a fusion dish that combines the beloved flavors of Szechuan mapo tofu with the comfort of classic mac and cheese. This dish features creamy cheese, pasta, and a spicy, umami-laden sauce that transforms your traditional mac and cheese experience into something extraordinary.
Is Mapo Chili Mac spicy?
Yes, it’s known for its notable spiciness, derived from Szechuan peppercorns and chili oil. However, you can adjust the heat level by modifying the chili quantity to suit your palate.
Can I make Mapo Chili Mac vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground meat with plant-based alternatives, ensuring that the dish remains delicious and satisfying without compromising flavor.
How can I serve Mapo Chili Mac?
This tasty combo is perfect as a standalone meal, but you can also complement it with a side of KFC coleslaw to balance the spice and add a refreshing crunch.
What type of cheese works best for Mapo Chili Mac?
Creamy cheeses like cheddar or a blend of mozzarella and cream cheese work wonderfully, providing a rich and velvety texture that beautifully melds with the spicy sauce.
Can leftovers be reheated?
Definitely! Mapo Chili Mac keeps well. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or microwave while adding a splash of milk to revive its creamy consistency. Enjoy the comforting flavors all over again!
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Mapo Chili Mac: The Unexpected Comfort Food You Need
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Mapo Chili Mac is a delicious fusion of classic macaroni and cheese with the bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine. This dish combines creamy cheese, spicy chili paste, and savory ground pork for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
12 oz. elbow macaroni
1 bunch scallions
plus thinly sliced dark and pale green scallion parts for serving
2 Tbsp. vegetable oil
4 garlic cloves
thinly sliced
1 2′ piece ginger
peeled
finely grated
1 lb. ground pork
2 Tbsp. ground Sichuan peppercorns
plus more for serving
⅓–½ cup doubanjiang (Sichuan-style fermented chili bean paste)
1 28-oz. can crushed tomatoes
12 oz. sharp yellow cheddar
coarsely grated (about 1½ cups)
plus more for serving
2 Tbsp. unsalted butter
Soy sauce (for seasoning; optional)
Sour cream (for serving)
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and grated ginger, and sauté until fragrant.
- Add the ground pork to the skillet, cooking until browned. Sprinkle in the ground Sichuan peppercorns and stir to combine.
- Mix in the doubanjiang and crushed tomatoes, reducing heat to low. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Fold in the cooked macaroni along with the grated cheddar cheese and butter. Cook until the cheese is melted and everything is heated through.
- Season with soy sauce if desired. Serve topped with sour cream and sliced scallions.
Notes
For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground pork with chopped mushrooms or a meat alternative. Adjust the amount of doubanjiang for desired spice level.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Dinner
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
Keywords: Mapo Chili Mac, Sichuan cuisine, macaroni and cheese, spicy recipes, fusion dishes