Chili Mac is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the best of two classic comfort foods: chili and macaroni and cheese. With seasoned beef, beans, and a rich tomato-based chili sauce, topped with melty cheese and pasta, it’s the perfect one-pot meal that’s filling, flavorful, and easy to make. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends and family, Chili Mac is sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chili Mac is a meal that has everything you want: hearty protein from the beef, a rich, comforting sauce, and tender pasta. The best part? It’s all made in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. This dish is a great combination of spicy, savory, and cheesy goodness, and it’s a great way to use up pantry staples like canned beans, tomatoes, and pasta. It’s versatile, customizable, and sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 packet chili seasoning mix (or homemade chili seasoning)
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Break the beef up into crumbles as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan with the beef. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion softens.
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Add the Beans and Tomatoes: Stir in the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chili seasoning mix. Add salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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Cook the Pasta: Add the uncooked macaroni to the skillet, stirring to combine. Add enough water to just cover the pasta (about 2 cups). Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the liquid has mostly absorbed.
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Add the Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. If using, stir in the sour cream for extra creaminess.
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Serve: Serve the Chili Mac hot, topped with extra cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish if desired.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes 4-6 servings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian Chili Mac: Use a plant-based meat substitute or skip the meat altogether and add extra beans or vegetables for a vegetarian version.
- Spicy Chili Mac: Add some diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or a sprinkle of chili flakes to increase the heat level.
- Different Cheese: Use other types of cheese like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor.
- Toppings: Add chopped green onions, sour cream, or a few slices of avocado on top for extra flavor and creaminess.
Storage/Reheating
Leftover Chili Mac can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a little water or broth if it’s too thick. You can also reheat it in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or shells. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if you use a different type of pasta.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Chili Mac in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Can I make this Chili Mac in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make Chili Mac in a slow cooker. Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic, then add everything to the slow cooker, including the beans, tomatoes, chili seasoning, and pasta. Cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Add cheese before serving.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to beef. Just make sure to season it well, as turkey can be milder in flavor.
Can I add more vegetables to the Chili Mac?
Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or zucchini to the dish. Simply chop them and add them along with the beans and tomatoes.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, you can use a spicier chili seasoning mix, add fresh chopped chilies, or sprinkle some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the mix.
Can I use other types of beans?
Yes, you can use other types of beans, such as black beans, pinto beans, or even garbanzo beans. Each will add a slightly different flavor and texture to the dish.
Can I add sour cream?
Yes, sour cream adds a nice creaminess and tang to the Chili Mac. Stir it in after cooking, or use it as a topping when serving.
Can I use homemade chili seasoning?
Absolutely! Homemade chili seasoning will add a fresh and customizable flavor. You can make your own by combining chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe if you’re feeding a larger group. Just make sure to use a larger skillet or pot to accommodate the extra ingredients.
Conclusion
Chili Mac is the ultimate comfort food—rich, cheesy, and packed with flavor. With its combination of savory beef, beans, pasta, and cheese, it’s the perfect one-pot meal that’s both filling and delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving something hearty, Chili Mac will quickly become a favorite. It’s easy, customizable, and full of flavor, making it a must-try recipe for your next family dinner or get-together.
Print
Chili Mac
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Comfort Food, Main Course, One-Pot Meal
- Method: Sauté, Simmer
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Chili Mac is the perfect blend of two classic comfort foods: chili and macaroni and cheese. With seasoned ground beef, hearty beans, tender pasta, and melty cheese, this one-pot meal is savory, filling, and easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to satisfy a crowd, Chili Mac is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
For the Chili Mac:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 packet chili seasoning mix (or homemade chili seasoning)
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
-
Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Break the beef into crumbles as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
-
Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan with the beef. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion softens.
-
Add the Beans and Tomatoes: Stir in the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chili seasoning mix. Add salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
-
Cook the Pasta: Add the uncooked macaroni to the skillet, stirring to combine. Add enough water to just cover the pasta (about 2 cups). Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the liquid has mostly absorbed.
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Add the Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. If using, stir in the sour cream for extra creaminess.
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Serve: Serve the Chili Mac hot, topped with extra cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish if desired.
Notes
- Storage/Reheating: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a little water or broth if it’s too thick. You can also reheat it in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
- Vegetarian Chili Mac: Use a plant-based meat substitute or skip the meat altogether and add extra beans or vegetables for a vegetarian version.
- Spicy Chili Mac: Add some diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or chili flakes to increase the heat level.
- Toppings: Add chopped green onions, sour cream, or avocado on top for extra flavor and creaminess.
- Homemade Chili Seasoning: You can make your own chili seasoning using chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a customized flavor.
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