Chili Mac Recipe

Chili Mac is the ultimate comfort food that brings together the hearty flavors of chili and the satisfying, cheesy goodness of macaroni. This one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something warm, filling, and packed with flavor without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner after a long day or feeding a hungry crowd, Chili Mac delivers with its rich tomato sauce, tender ground beef, and gooey melted cheese all mingling with tender pasta. It’s a dish that both kids and adults love, making it a go-to for family meals or casual gatherings. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—add your favorite beans, spice it up, or make it meatless. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your home cooking rotation!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make a classic Chili Mac, you’ll need some simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that combine to create big flavor:

• Ground beef (1 pound): Adds savory richness and protein to the dish. You can substitute with ground turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option.
• Elbow macaroni (2 cups): The perfect pasta shape to hold onto the chili sauce and cheese, giving each bite a delightful texture.
• Onion (1 medium, diced): Provides a subtle sweetness and depth to the chili base.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Enhances the aroma and adds a punch of flavor.
• Tomato sauce (15 ounces): Forms the rich, tangy foundation of the chili sauce.
• Diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces, with juice): Adds texture and freshness.
• Kidney beans (1 can, drained and rinsed): Optional, but adds fiber and a hearty bite.
• Chili powder (2 tablespoons): The key spice that delivers the classic chili flavor.
• Ground cumin (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm earthiness.
• Paprika (1 teaspoon): Gives a smoky undertone.
• Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning.
• Shredded cheddar cheese (1½ cups): Melts perfectly on top for creamy, cheesy goodness.
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon): For sautéing the beef and aromatics.
• Water or beef broth (2 cups): To cook the pasta and help meld the flavors.

These ingredients come together in one pot, making cleanup easy and the cooking process straightforward. Feel free to adjust the spices based on your heat preference or add extras like jalapeños for a spicy kick!

How to Make the Recipe

Making Chili Mac is straightforward and perfect for cooks of all levels. Follow these easy steps:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Dice your onion and mince the garlic. Drain and rinse the kidney beans if using.
2. Brown the beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Sauté the aromatics: Add the diced onion and garlic to the beef. Cook until the onion becomes translucent and soft, about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add spices: Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute to toast the spices, enhancing their flavors.
5. Add tomatoes and beans: Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juice, and kidney beans. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle simmer.
6. Add pasta and liquid: Stir in the elbow macaroni, then pour in the water or beef broth. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
7. Simmer and cook the pasta: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until the pasta is tender and has absorbed much of the liquid.
8. Add cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and let the cheese melt for 3-5 minutes.
9. Serve and enjoy: Give the Chili Mac a good stir to mix in the melted cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot and enjoy!

This recipe yields a hearty and flavorful meal with minimal fuss, making it perfect for both beginner and experienced home cooks.

How to Serve

Chili Mac is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it with some creative serving ideas. Serve it with a side of crunchy tortilla chips or cornbread to scoop up every last bit of cheesy chili goodness. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce adds a creamy or spicy contrast that many love. Fresh garnishes like chopped green onions, cilantro, or diced avocado bring brightness and texture. For a complete meal, pair Chili Mac with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness. Whether for casual weeknight dinners, potlucks, or game day gatherings, Chili Mac is sure to be a crowd-pleaser served with these tasty sides and toppings.

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

Chili Mac is a great dish for meal prep and leftovers. You can make it ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a saucepan over low heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, to keep the pasta from drying out. If the dish seems dry upon reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Chili Mac also freezes well—portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. For best texture, it’s recommended to add the cheese fresh when serving rather than freezing it with the dish. This way, your Chili Mac stays cheesy, creamy, and delicious every time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Chili Mac vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the ground beef and use extra beans or a plant-based meat substitute. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to bulk it up.

What pasta works best for Chili Mac?
Elbow macaroni is classic, but small pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne also work well because they hold the sauce nicely.

How spicy is this recipe?
This Chili Mac has a mild to moderate spice level thanks to the chili powder and paprika. Feel free to adjust by adding cayenne pepper or fresh jalapeños if you want more heat.

Can I use canned chili instead of making it from scratch?
While canned chili can save time, making Chili Mac from scratch lets you control flavors and freshness. Plus, it’s easy and delicious with simple ingredients.

How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?
Keep an eye on the cooking time and stir occasionally. Using a bit less liquid or cooking uncovered for the last few minutes can help prevent mushiness.

Final Thoughts

Chili Mac is a wonderfully comforting, easy-to-make meal that combines the best of chili and cheesy pasta in one pot. It’s perfect for busy days, feeding a family, or impressing guests with minimal effort. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a warm, satisfying dinner that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection!

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