My family's favorite Sweet and Spicy Chili Mac! My mother started this recipe and over the years it has evolved into a classic family favorite. The brown sugary sweetness hits first followed by the perfect amount of heat! I hope you and your family love this cool weather favorite!
In a large pot add olive oil and bring to medium heat. Once oil is warm add in the diced white onion, ground beef and ground pork sausage and break into small chunks. Add in the minced garlic, salt, and pepper to the meat and cook until no more pink remains, about 7-10 minutes. You can also add some chili seasoning to the meat if you wish. Once meat is cooked through drain the excess fat.
Once meat is drained add in the chili powder, paprika, cumin, oregano, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, and the brown sugar and stir the combine.
Once combined, add the chili beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chili sauce, and water and stir until combined. Once combined bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer covered for at least 20 minutes* Stir occasionally and adjust spices as needed.
Right before serving, follow macaroni package instructions and cook until al dente. To serve combine macaroni, chili, sour cream and cheese in a personal sized bowl and mix everything together*. Enjoy!
Chili Seasoning Note I like to add some additional chili seasoning to the meats while cooking. I think this adds a lot more flavor. This is optional and you can just stick with the spice blend if you wish.Simmer Notes like to let my chili simmer for at least 20 minutes, but it is better the longer you can let it simmer. I adjust my spices usually once or twice adding in more brown sugar if it is too spicy, or more cayenne if it is too sweet. Add small amounts at a time so you do not over spice the chili. Serving Note I like letting everyone put together their own chili mac in their own bowl. This lets everyone customize it to their own liking. Alternatively, you could combine together the cheese, chili, and macaroni in a large bowl and serve it that way.