Name: Chili Mac
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 3 cups water or beef broth

Craving comfort in a bowl? Let me introduce you to Chili Mac — the perfect fusion of two all-time classics: hearty chili and creamy macaroni. It’s one of those dishes that wraps you up in warmth and fills you with flavor. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a satisfying one-pot meal, this is the kind of dinner that disappears fast.

What makes Chili Mac truly irresistible is its balance. You get the boldness of chili spices, the richness of ground beef, and the smooth, cheesy macaroni that makes every bite crave-worthy. Plus, it’s ready in under an hour, which means it’s a go-to for weeknights when time is tight but the appetite is big.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the deliciousness, make sure you have the right setup. The key to a smooth Chili Mac experience lies in your tools:

Large Dutch Oven or Deep Skillet: This is your go-to for browning meat, simmering chili, and cooking the pasta all in one vessel. The even heat distribution of a Dutch oven ensures nothing sticks or burns.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: You’ll need this for breaking up ground beef and stirring the mixture without damaging your pot.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for portioning spices, liquids, and cheese to maintain flavor balance.
Colander (Optional): If you prefer to cook the pasta separately, use this for draining.

Having these essentials ready makes the cooking process seamless and lets you focus on what matters: building layers of flavor in every bite.

Ingredients for the Chili Mac

Ground Beef: The backbone of the dish, providing savory richness and heartiness that pairs perfectly with the spices and pasta.
Elbow Macaroni: Classic choice for a reason; it holds sauce beautifully and adds that beloved pasta chew.
Onion: Adds aromatic depth and a touch of sweetness once sautéed.
Garlic: Brings out bold, savory flavor that complements both chili and pasta elements.
Diced Tomatoes: Offer acidity and juiciness, creating a saucy base that balances the meat.
Tomato Sauce: Thickens the chili mix and ensures a cohesive, rich consistency.
Kidney Beans: Adds a traditional chili texture and earthy taste.
Chili Powder: Key spice for warmth and depth.
Ground Cumin: Provides a smoky, earthy note that enhances the chili profile.
Paprika: Adds a subtle sweetness and color.
Cheddar Cheese: Melts into the dish for that creamy, comforting finish.
Salt & Pepper: To season and balance all the bold flavors.

How To Make the Chili Mac

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Aromatics

Heat your large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with your spoon. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent.

Step 2: Build the Chili Base

Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let everything simmer together for 10–15 minutes so the flavors develop and meld.

Step 3: Add the Macaroni

Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni and enough water or broth to cover the pasta. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered until the pasta is tender, about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Melt in the Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked and the liquid has mostly absorbed, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until melted and creamy, then remove from heat.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Ladle the Chili Mac into bowls, top with extra cheese if desired, and dig into your one-pot comfort food masterpiece.

How to Serve and Store Chili Mac

Chili Mac is best served hot, straight from the pot. It pairs well with a crisp green salad or warm cornbread on the side. If you’re feeling indulgent, top each bowl with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips for added texture.

To store, let the Chili Mac cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to revive the creamy consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this Chili Mac?

The recipe has a mild kick from the chili powder and paprika. For more heat, add cayenne or hot sauce. To keep it mild, use less chili powder.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. Shells, rotini, or penne all work well. Just keep an eye on the cooking time and liquid levels.

What cheese is best for Chili Mac?

Sharp cheddar is classic, but you can mix in Monterey Jack or pepper jack for extra flavor.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or extra beans, and use vegetable broth.

Does Chili Mac freeze well?

It freezes wonderfully. Portion it out before freezing for quick meals later.

Can I add vegetables?

Definitely. Bell peppers, corn, or even zucchini can be added in with the tomatoes.

Want More Comfort Food Pasta Ideas?

If you loved this Chili Mac, you might also enjoy some of these hearty, flavor-packed recipes:

Try the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta for a creamy tomato twist that’s perfect for busy nights. Or explore the bold layers in the Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe, a spicy, cheesy bake that’s always a crowd-pleaser.

For more cheesy pasta creations, check out the Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole or the saucy goodness of the Best Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti.

And don’t skip the Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce — it’s ultra-creamy, rich, and comforting in every bite.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

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If you make it, I’d love to know how it turned out. Did you go extra cheesy? Did you toss in some veggies or spice it up? Drop a comment below. Your spins on this comfort classic are always welcome.

For more comfort food recipes and daily inspiration, follow me on Pinterest at LadyPlate.

Chili Mac

Author: Julia Koch
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Chili Mac is the ultimate weeknight comfort food—hearty ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, a bold tomato-chili base, and gooey melted cheese all come together in one pot. It’s cozy, flavorful, and family-friendly.

Instructions

1. Heat a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.

2. Add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.

3. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes to blend the flavors.

4. Add uncooked elbow macaroni and water or broth. Stir well, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to simmer. Cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, or until pasta is tender.

5. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.

6. Remove from heat and serve warm. Top with extra cheese or sour cream if desired.