Pioneer Woman Chili Mac Recipe

Chili Mac and Cheese is a comforting, hearty dish that combines the rich flavors of chili with the creamy goodness of macaroni and cheese. This recipe, inspired by Ree Drummond’s take on the classic, is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. ​Log in or sign up to view+2The Pioneer Woman+2Punchfork+2

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.​
• One-Pot Meal: Minimal cleanup since everything cooks in a single skillet.​TikTok
• Family Favorite: A satisfying dish that appeals to both kids and adults.​

Ingredients

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

• Olive oil​Pinterest+6Yahoo+6The Pioneer Woman+6
• Ground beef​The Pioneer Woman+1Yahoo+1
• Garlic cloves, minced​The Pioneer Woman+1Yahoo+1
• Small yellow onion, diced​Punchfork+2Yahoo+2The Pioneer Woman+2
• Chili powder​Yahoo+2Goût de chez soi+2The Cozy Cook+2
• Ground cumin​
• Kosher salt and black pepper​The Pioneer Woman
• Beef broth​
• Tomato sauce​The Pioneer Woman
• Large elbow macaroni​Allrecipes+2The Pioneer Woman+2Punchfork+2
• Pinto beans, drained​The Cozy Cook+2Punchfork+2The Pioneer Woman+2
• Grated cheddar cheese​The Pioneer Woman+1Punchfork+1
• Grated pepper jack cheese​Goût de chez soi+3The Pioneer Woman+3The Pioneer Woman+3
• Cilantro, for serving​Punchfork+3The Pioneer Woman+3Goût de chez soi+3
• Hot sauce, to taste​The Pioneer Woman
• Sour cream, for serving (optional)​The Pioneer Woman

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, garlic, and onion. Season with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook, breaking up the meat, until browned.​The Pioneer Woman
2. Stir in beef broth, tomato sauce, macaroni, and beans. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook until the macaroni is al dente.​The Pioneer Woman
3. Remove from heat. Add cheddar and pepper jack cheeses, stirring until melted.​The Pioneer Woman
4. Serve in bowls topped with cilantro, additional cheese, hot sauce, and sour cream if desired.​The Pioneer Woman

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 8 servings.​
• Prep Time: 10 minutes.​The Pioneer Woman+1The Cozy Cook+1
• Total Time: 30 minutes.​

Variations

• Meat Options: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.​
• Spice Level: Adjust chili powder and add jalapeños for more heat.​
• Vegetarian: Omit meat and add extra beans or vegetables like bell peppers.​

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.​
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.​

FAQs

How can I make this dish spicier?

Increase the amount of chili powder or add diced jalapeños during cooking.​

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like penne or rotini can be used.​

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.​

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, prepare up to the point of adding cheese, cool, refrigerate, and reheat before serving.​

What can I serve alongside Chili Mac and Cheese?

A simple green salad or cornbread complements this dish well.​

How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

Cook until just al dente and avoid overcooking during reheating.​

Can I freeze leftovers?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the pasta may change.​

What can I use instead of pinto beans?

Kidney beans or black beans are good alternatives.​The Cozy Cook

How can I make this dish creamier?

Add a splash of heavy cream or extra cheese before serving.​

Is there a dairy-free version?

Use dairy-free cheese substitutes and omit sour cream.​

Conclusion

Pioneer Woman’s Chili Mac and Cheese is a delightful fusion of two comfort food classics. Its simplicity, versatility, and rich flavors make it a must-try recipe for any home cook.

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