Several variations of the dish exist, and prepared canned and boxed versions also exist. It can be a relatively inexpensive dish to prepare,[7] and has been described as a comfort food.[8][9] Similar dishes include Spaghetti Red, a chili-topped spaghetti popular around Joplin, Missouri,[10] and Cincinnati chili.
Several preparation methods exist. Basic versions may be prepared using chopped meat, tomato, spices, and elbow macaroni.[7] Another basic preparation method incorporates boxed, prepared macaroni and cheese and canned chili. Some recipes incorporate all of the ingredients together, while others are prepared with the ingredients separately layered.[1][11] Those that use cheese may use grated cheese atop the dish,[12] while others mix the cheese throughout the dish. Sometimes, onions or beans are added.[1] Some diners in St. Louis, Missouri, serve a version called "chili mac a la mode", in which the dish is served topped with fried eggs.[4][1]
The dish may be prepared on a range top in a skillet, in a slow cooker,[13] or baked as a casserole.[6] Vegetarian and vegan versions of the dish are sometimes prepared.[13][14][15]
Chili mac has been a staple dish at American military dining facilities for years.[16] It was introduced into the Meal, Ready-to-Eat (MRE) field ration menu in 1995 and is one of only three of the twelve MRE meals offered in 1995 that has remained on the MRE menu to date.[17] A variation called "taco chili mac" has been consumed by NASA astronauts in space.[18] It is processed by NASA as a freeze-dried product.[18]
^Rothman, Julie (April 14, 2015). "Recipe Finder - Chili mac". Baltimore Sun. Archived from the original on October 5, 2015. Retrieved September 9, 2015.
^Campbell, Karly (November 14, 2014). "How To Make Chili Mac". The Huffington Post. Archived from the original on October 5, 2015. Retrieved September 9, 2015.
