Print

Spicy Kimchi Chili Mac and Cheese

Spicy Kimchi Chili Mac and Cheese
Print Recipe

Spicy Kimchi Chili Mac and Cheese is a bold and comforting fusion dish that combines creamy, cheesy mac and cheese with the tangy heat of kimchi and the savory depth of chili. This recipe offers a perfect balance of spicy, sour, and savory flavors, perfect for quick weeknight dinners, leftovers that taste even better, and versatile enough to adapt to vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free diets.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni pasta

Chili Base

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1/2 pound ground beef or plant-based protein
  • 2 tablespoons chili seasoning
  • 1 cup chopped kimchi

Cheese Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

Seasonings and Extras

  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings

  • Chopped green onions
  • Extra shredded cheese
  • Fried eggs

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil water with a pinch of salt and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, about 7–8 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency later.
  2. Prepare the Chili Base: In a large skillet, sauté chopped garlic and onions in butter until soft and aromatic. Add the ground beef or plant protein and cook until browned. Stir in chili seasoning and cook for a few more minutes. Mix in the chopped kimchi to combine all flavors.
  3. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to form a roux. Slowly add milk while stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
  4. Combine Everything: Mix the cooked pasta, chili-kimchi mixture, and cheese sauce together thoroughly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  5. Bake (Optional): Transfer the combined mixture into a baking dish, sprinkle with extra cheese on top, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Notes

  • Use sharp cheddar cheese for a stronger flavor that balances the spicy kimchi and chili well.
  • Don’t skip making the roux; it’s essential for a creamy and smooth cheese sauce.
  • Choose fresh, well-fermented kimchi for the best tangy and complex flavor.
  • Adjust the spice level gradually by tasting as you add chili seasoning and kimchi.
  • Add a squeeze of lime or a splash of rice vinegar to brighten and balance the rich flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: spicy kimchi mac and cheese, chili mac and cheese, Korean fusion comfort food, spicy cheesy pasta, kimchi recipe, quick dinner, spicy pasta dish, mac and cheese with chili

Find it online: https://jamescookes.com/spicy-kimchi-chili-mac-and-cheese/