There’s nothing quite like a bowl of Chili Mac to warm you up after a long day. This hearty, satisfying dish is the perfect blend of spicy chili and creamy macaroni, all topped with melted cheese for that extra touch of comfort. Whether you’re craving something quick for dinner or need a crowd-pleasing meal, Chili Mac ticks all the boxes. It’s flavorful, filling, and incredibly easy to make – a true go-to recipe when you’re looking for a cozy meal.

The beauty of this recipe is how versatile it is. You can make it with beef, turkey, or even vegetarian-friendly options. Plus, it’s a one-pot dish, meaning less cleanup afterward. It’s the kind of meal you can whip up with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, making it a stress-free weeknight winner. Packed with protein, pasta, and a savory, spiced chili sauce, Chili Mac is an all-in-one meal that will leave everyone satisfied and asking for seconds.

What Makes This Chili Mac Special?

There’s a reason Chili Mac has become a staple in many households. Here’s what makes this recipe stand out:

One-Pot Wonder: This Chili Mac comes together in just one pot, which means less mess and easier cleanup.
Flavor-Packed: The combination of chili and macaroni creates a comforting balance of spicy, savory, and cheesy flavors.
Customizable: You can switch out ingredients based on dietary needs or preferences—whether you prefer beef, turkey, or a meatless version.
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something satisfying and delicious in a pinch.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a casual get-together, this Chili Mac is sure to impress.

Ingredient Notes

Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients for this Chili Mac recipe, along with substitutions and tips:

Ground beef: The base protein for this dish, providing richness and flavor. You can substitute ground turkey or plant-based protein for a lighter or vegetarian version.
Elbow macaroni: This is the traditional pasta choice for Chili Mac, but feel free to use any small pasta like penne or rotini.
Chili seasoning: A pre-made chili seasoning mix makes this dish incredibly easy, but you can also use individual spices like cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and paprika for a homemade version.
Tomato sauce: Adds depth and a rich tomato flavor. You can swap this for diced tomatoes or crushed tomatoes for more texture.
Cheese: Shredded cheddar or Mexican blend works best for a melty, gooey finish, but you can also try Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added spice.
Onions and garlic: These aromatics are essential for building flavor in the base of the dish. Red or yellow onions work best, and garlic adds a nice depth of flavor.

How To Make Chili Mac

Follow these easy steps to create a delicious Chili Mac:

Brown the beef: In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
Add onions and garlic: Once the beef is browned, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Stir in chili seasoning: Sprinkle in the chili seasoning and stir to coat the beef and onions evenly. If you’re using individual spices, add them now (1 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp paprika, etc.).
Add tomato sauce and broth: Pour in the tomato sauce and broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Cook the macaroni: Add the uncooked macaroni to the pot. Stir to combine and make sure the pasta is submerged in the sauce. Let it simmer uncovered for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked al dente and the sauce has thickened.
Melt in the cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat and stir in the shredded cheese. Let it melt into the sauce, making the Chili Mac creamy and cheesy.
Taste and adjust: Taste the Chili Mac and add salt or pepper if needed. For more heat, you can add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
Serve: Spoon the Chili Mac into bowls and garnish with additional cheese, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream, if desired.

Storage Options

Room Temperature: Chili Mac can be kept at room temperature for about 2 hours. If left out longer, be sure to refrigerate it to avoid any food safety concerns.

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little extra broth or water to loosen up the sauce if it thickens too much.

Freezing: This dish freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if necessary.

Variations and Substitutions

Vegetarian Chili Mac: Use plant-based ground meat or lentils in place of the beef for a vegetarian version of this dish. Add more veggies like bell peppers or corn for extra flavor.
Spicy Chili Mac: Add diced jalapeños or a spoonful of hot sauce to the chili mix for a spicier kick.
Cheese Options: If you’re looking for a more melty, gooey cheese, consider using a combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella.
Beef Alternatives: Ground turkey or chicken make a great lean alternative to beef without sacrificing flavor.
Vegan Version: Use a plant-based protein and dairy-free cheese to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Chili Mac ahead of time? Yes, you can make the Chili Mac ahead of time. Store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve. The flavors may actually improve after a day or two!

Can I use different pasta shapes? Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use any small pasta like penne, rotini, or shells.

What can I do if the sauce is too thick? If your sauce becomes too thick, simply add a little more broth or water to loosen it up to your desired consistency.

How can I make this recipe spicier? To add heat, try adding some diced jalapeños, chili flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the chili mix while cooking.

Can I freeze Chili Mac? Yes, Chili Mac freezes well. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before storing in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

What can I substitute for the ground beef? Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles are great alternatives for the ground beef in this recipe.

Conclusion

Chili Mac is the perfect comfort food that satisfies cravings for both chili and macaroni in one dish. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or feeding a crowd, this recipe is easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. So grab your ingredients and get cooking—this flavorful, cheesy bowl of Chili Mac is sure to become a favorite in your home!

Chili Mac Recipe: Comfort in Every Bite

Author: Sofia
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

A perfect blend of hearty chili and creamy mac and cheese, this Chili Mac recipe is a must-try for anyone craving a satisfying meal. It’s quick, easy, and packed with rich flavors that will please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
1 cup elbow macaroni
2 cups beef broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and brown the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
Stir in the chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and beef broth.
Bring to a boil, then add the elbow macaroni. Reduce heat and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and the dish becomes creamy.
Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or sour cream if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 450
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 28g