If you’ve been searching for the ultimate comfort dish that’s both hearty and easy to make, look no further than this Chili Mac Recipe. Combining the rich, savory flavors of chili with tender elbow macaroni and ooey-gooey melted cheddar, this dish is a warm hug in a bowl. Perfect for a family dinner or to impress friends on a cozy night in, this recipe balances bold spices with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. It’s one of those meals that feels like a special treat but comes together in just about half an hour, making it a true weeknight winner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chili Mac Recipe starts with a handful of straightforward ingredients that each play an essential role in creating a dish bursting with flavor, texture, and inviting colors. From the savory ground beef to the bright diced tomatoes and creamy cheddar cheese, every element brings a delicious piece to the puzzle.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides hearty protein and savory richness as the base of the dish.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Used for sautéing the onion and garlic, adding a subtle fruitiness and helping to develop flavor.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Adds a natural sweetness and depth when softened.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Brings aromatic warmth that enhances every bite.
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes: Offers vibrant color and a juicy, fresh tomato taste.
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Adds creamy texture and boosts the fiber content.
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce: Creates a thick, rich base that ties the dish together.
- 2 cups beef broth: Keeps the pasta moist while infusing extra savory flavor.
- 2 tsp chili powder: The star spice that gives this chili mac its signature bold and smoky kick.
- 1 tsp cumin: Adds a warm earthiness that complements the chili powder beautifully.
- 1/2 tsp paprika: Enhances color and adds a mild, smoky note.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to brighten and balance all the flavors.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked): The perfect pasta shape that holds sauce well and offers comforting chewiness.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into luscious gooey goodness that brings creaminess and tang.
- Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh pop of color and mild bite to finish.
How to Make Chili Mac Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Brown the Beef
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once shimmering, toss in the chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. This soft sweetness forms the flavorful foundation. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release those irresistible aromas. Next, add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it browns evenly. Cook until there’s no pink left and drain the excess fat if necessary to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
Step 2: Build the Chili Base
Now it’s time to bring all those lovely ingredients together. Pour in the diced tomatoes, drained kidney beans, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir to ensure the spices are evenly distributed. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer for about a minute or two—this helps meld the flavors into a rich, inviting sauce.
Step 3: Add the Pasta and Simmer Until Tender
Here’s the fun part: stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni directly into the simmering chili mixture. Make sure the pasta is submerged in the liquid to cook evenly. Cover the pot and let everything simmer gently for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You’ll notice the pasta soak up the flavorful sauce and soften to the perfect tender bite while the sauce thickens beautifully.
Step 4: Stir in Cheddar Cheese and Garnish
Once the pasta is perfectly cooked and the sauce has thickened, remove the pot from heat. Immediately stir in the shredded cheddar cheese so it melts into a creamy, cheesy blanket that ties the whole dish together. For a fresh finishing touch, sprinkle chopped green onions or parsley over the top if you like. Serve this vibrant Chili Mac Recipe warm and watch how instantly it becomes everyone’s new favorite meal.
How to Serve Chili Mac Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like chopped green onions or fresh parsley not only brightens the dish visually but also adds a subtle freshness that cuts through the richness. For an extra layer of flavor, consider a dollop of sour cream or some sliced jalapeños to bring a creamy or spicy twist if you’re feeling adventurous.
Side Dishes
Chili Mac Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides that complement its bold flavors. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast, while some warm crusty bread or cornbread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce. Steamed veggies like broccoli or a medley of roasted root vegetables offer a nutritious balance without overpowering the main star.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to jazz things up, try serving the chili mac in individual ramekins topped with an extra sprinkle of cheese and some crunchy tortilla chips for texture contrast. It also works great as a layered casserole baked briefly to brown the cheese topping, making it perfect for potlucks or family gatherings where you want to impress without fuss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Chili Mac Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Place leftovers in an airtight container to maintain moisture and flavor. When you go back for a second helping, you’ll find that the flavors have had even more time to deepen, making it an ideal meal to enjoy any time during the week.
Freezing
If you want to stock up, Chili Mac freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, leaving some headspace as the pasta expands slightly when frozen. It’s a fantastic way to have a ready-made, comforting meal on hand for busy nights or unexpected guests.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen chili mac overnight in the refrigerator for best results. Warm it gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of broth or water if the mixture seems too thick. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between until piping hot and the cheese is melty once again.
FAQs
Can I make this Chili Mac Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can swap out the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or add extra beans and vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini to keep the protein content up while making it meat-free. Adjust the seasoning slightly to taste, and you’ve got a delicious vegetarian-friendly version.
What type of cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar is the classic choice for its melting quality and tangy flavor that balances the chili spices perfectly. However, you can experiment with Monterey Jack, a Mexican cheese blend, or even pepper jack for some extra kick.
Can I use different pasta shapes?
Yes! While elbow macaroni is traditional and perfect for holding sauce, small shells, rotini, or ditalini work just as well. Just keep in mind cooking times may vary slightly depending on the shape and size.
Is this recipe spicy?
The base Chili Mac Recipe has a mild to moderate heat level thanks to the chili powder and paprika, making it kid-friendly. You can easily adjust the spice by adding crushed red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or using spicier chili powders if you prefer more heat.
Can I prepare this in advance for a party?
Definitely! You can prepare the chili base a day ahead and refrigerate it, then add the pasta and cheese just before serving. This helps the flavors deepen and reduces your cooking time on party day, making hosting stress-free.
Final Thoughts
This Chili Mac Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings warmth, comfort, and satisfying flavors to your table with every spoonful. Its simplicity and richness make it a go-to dish whether you’re feeding a hungry family or craving a cozy night in. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
Print
Chili Mac Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
This hearty Chili Mac recipe combines ground beef, kidney beans, and elbow macaroni in a flavorful tomato and beef broth sauce seasoned with chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Topped with melted cheddar cheese and optional fresh herbs, it’s an easy, comforting one-pot meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Meat and Veggies
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Canned Goods and Liquids
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
Spices and Seasonings
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Others
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, releasing their flavors.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Continue until the beef is fully browned. Drain any excess fat if necessary to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Stir in diced tomatoes, kidney beans, tomato sauce, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix all ingredients thoroughly to combine the flavors.
- Simmer with Pasta: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then add the uncooked elbow macaroni. Cover the skillet or Dutch oven and let it simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Finish with Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts smoothly into the chili mac. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley if desired, then serve warm.
Notes
- Add a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicier dish.
- For a lighter version, swap ground beef with ground turkey or use plant-based crumbles to make it vegetarian-friendly.
- This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner as it uses one pot, minimizing cleanup.
