Chili Mac

Short Description

Chili Mac is a comforting, one-pot meal that combines the heartiness of chili with the cheesy, creamy goodness of mac and cheese. Packed with ground beef, beans, pasta, and a rich, flavorful sauce, this dish is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner the whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder – Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.
• Hearty & Satisfying – A comforting blend of chili and macaroni.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Customizable – Adjust spice levels and ingredients to suit your taste.
• Kid-Friendly – A family-favorite meal packed with cheesy goodness.

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Tomato sauce
• Diced tomatoes
• Kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• Beef broth
• Elbow macaroni
• Chili powder
• Cumin
• Paprika
• Salt and black pepper
• Cheddar cheese, shredded
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded (optional)
• Green onions or parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the Beef – In a large pot, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease.
2. Sauté Aromatics – Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
3. Add Liquids & Seasonings – Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook the Pasta – Stir in elbow macaroni, cover, and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Melt the Cheese – Once the pasta is tender, stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy.
6. Garnish & Serve – Top with green onions or parsley and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add jalapeños or extra chili powder for more heat.
• Protein Boost – Use ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu instead of beef.
• Vegetarian Option – Swap beef for black beans and use vegetable broth.
• Creamy Version – Stir in a little cream cheese for extra richness.
• Taco-Inspired – Add taco seasoning and serve with tortilla chips.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes! Penne, shells, or rotini all work well.

How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?

Cook just until al dente and avoid overcooking.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients except pasta and cheese. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, stirring in the pasta in the last 30 minutes.

What toppings go well with Chili Mac?

Try sour cream, avocado, crushed tortilla chips, or extra cheese.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and check your broth and seasonings.

Can I add more veggies?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, corn, or zucchini make great additions.

How do I make this dish less spicy?

Reduce the chili powder or use mild diced tomatoes.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, just use a larger pot and adjust seasoning to taste.

What cheese melts best for Chili Mac?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Colby work well.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Store and reheat as needed, adding extra broth if necessary.

Conclusion

Chili Mac is the ultimate comfort food, combining the best of chili and mac and cheese in one delicious dish. Perfect for busy nights, potlucks, or meal prep, this cheesy, hearty meal is sure to become a family favorite. Try it today for a cozy, satisfying dinner!

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