[ recipe ] :: copycat chili mac

I freaking love the Chili Mac from Steak 'n Shake, especially when it is topped with cheese, onions, and extra beef. It is one of those naughty meals that I will get every once in a while (with...confession...a milkshake and a side of cheese fries) because it is so bad for me. Looking at the nutrition facts, my beloved Chili Mac has 860 calories, 36g of fat, and 1210 mg sodium (the Chili Mac Supreme tops out at 1080 calories, 52g fat, and 1500 mg sodium!). This recipe isn't an exact copy of the Steak 'n Shake Chili Mac - I think it's better! It is loaded with flavor, full of meat, and really hits the spot without making you feel gross afterward.

I was home-alone the other night, having some nice bachelorette time, and got the urge for Chili Mac. Luckily, I had some homemade chili in the fridge so I only had to make some spaghetti, top it with the chili, and toss on some cheese. It was heavenly.

Ingredients

For the chili
1 pound 93% lean ground beef or turkey
1 15 oz can tomato sauce
1 15 oz can diced tomatoes
1 15 oz can red kidney beans
1 packet of your favorite chili seasoning
 
For the "mac"
16 oz spaghetti, cooked
Shredded cheddar cheese, diced green chiles, hot sauce, and chopped onions for topping (optional)
  
Directions

Cook the spaghetti according to package directions and drain. Meanwhile, brown the ground beef (or turkey) and drain off the fat. Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beans, and seasoning and cook for 10-15 minutes over medium heat. Serves 4-6.

Assemble the Chili Mac by placing 1-2 servings of pasta on the bottom of a bowl, then top with 1 cup of chili and your toppings. I had mine with a leafy green salad with tomatoes and cucumbers on the side. It was delicious and much healthier than the fast food version! It would be great with any chili that you have leftover and is a nice deviation from serving chili over rice.

- Maggie White