If you have ever wished for a dish that combines the comforting creaminess of mac and cheese with the hearty, bold flavors of chili, then this Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. It’s a soul-satisfying meal that’s perfect for cozy weeknights or feeding a hungry crowd, and it brings together tender pasta, savory ground beef, spices, beans, and a luscious blend of cheeses all in one pot. Every bite bursts with warmth and a touch of spice, making it an easy, one-pan meal you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple and straightforward, but each one plays a vital role in layering the rich taste, texture, and color that make this chili mac and cheese recipe truly special. From the aromatic spices to the creamy cheeses, they come together effortlessly to create a dish that feels like a warm hug.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides the perfect base for sautéing and adds a subtle fruity flavor.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein that gives this dish its satisfying meaty depth.
- 1 small yellow onion (diced): Adds sweetness and a savory bite once softened.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Brings that unmistakable punch of aromatic flavor.
- 1 tablespoon chili powder: Delivers classic chili warmth and a touch of smokiness.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds earthy depth that harmonizes perfectly with the chili powder.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Introduces a subtle smoky undertone that makes this dish sing.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of spicy kick.
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes: Gives a fresh, tangy element and balances the richness.
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce: Creates a smooth, saucy base for melding the ingredients together.
- 2 cups beef broth: Keeps everything moist and infused with savory goodness as the pasta cooks.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked): The perfect pasta shape to soak up all those flavors and cheesy sauces.
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans (drained and rinsed): Adds heartiness and a lovely textural contrast.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Brings that classic sharp, melty cheesiness everyone loves.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds creamy stretchiness and balances the cheddar’s sharpness.
- Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish (optional): Freshens up the dish with vibrant color and a subtle bite.
How to Make Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef and Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s beautifully browned, breaking it apart with your spoon as it cooks. This browning step is crucial because it develops that deep, savory flavor foundation. Then, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, letting them soften gently for a few minutes until fragrant and tender.
Step 2: Spice It Up
Now comes the flavor magic! Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together well so these spices coat the meat and veggies, infusing the entire base with warmth and complexity. This step is where you start smelling those irresistible chili and smoky notes.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Give everything a good stir and bring the mixture to a simmer. This combination creates a tangy, flavorful sauce that’s going to marry perfectly with the pasta and beans as they cook.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni, then cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let the pasta simmer gently for about 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the macaroni is tender and has absorbed much of the sauce. This part transforms the dish into a wonderfully cohesive, comforting meal.
Step 5: Add Beans and Cheeses
Mix in the drained kidney beans and give the chili mac another 2 to 3 minutes to heat the beans through. Finally, remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Watch as the cheeses melt and create a creamy, luscious coating that brings everything together beautifully.
How to Serve Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped parsley or sliced green onions adds a fresh, vibrant touch to the rich and hearty Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe. These garnishes offer a pop of color and a subtle brightness that balances the creamy and savory elements.
Side Dishes
This dish is quite filling on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or some roasted veggies rounds out the meal nicely. Cornbread or garlic bread also complements this chili mac beautifully, providing extra texture and a hint of sweetness or crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For something a little different, serve the chili mac in individual ramekins topped with an extra sprinkling of cheese and broil until golden and bubbly. Or, scoop it into hollowed bell peppers before baking to turn this recipe into a stunning, crowd-pleasing presentation that’s fun and flavorful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe into airtight containers and store them in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and delicious for up to 3 to 4 days, making it a great option for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish for longer storage. Place the cooled chili mac in freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion. It’s best enjoyed within 2 to 3 months for optimal flavor and texture retention.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge if possible, then warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and add a splash of broth or milk if you want to restore its creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I make this Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply swap out the ground beef for a plant-based alternative or extra beans and veggies like bell peppers and mushrooms. The spices and cheese will keep it flavorful and hearty.
Is it possible to use a different type of pasta?
Yes, while elbow macaroni is traditional, feel free to use other small pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the pasta cooks through perfectly.
How can I add more heat to this dish?
For an extra spicy kick, add cayenne pepper along with the other spices or toss in some diced jalapeños when cooking the onions and garlic. It’s a great way to tailor the heat level to your taste.
Can I substitute the beef broth for something else?
If you prefer, you can use chicken broth or vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or a vegetarian version. Just keep in mind that the beef broth adds a richer, more savory base.
What cheeses work best for melting in this recipe?
Cheddar and mozzarella are fantastic choices because cheddar gives sharp flavor while mozzarella melts beautifully, creating that creamy texture everyone loves in Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe. You can also experiment with Monterey Jack or Colby if you like.
Final Thoughts
This Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe is a total game-changer when you want comforting food with a twist that satisfies every craving. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to become a beloved staple in your meal rotation. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this perfect flavor combo in your life.
Print
Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Chili Mac and Cheese combines the comforting creaminess of classic mac and cheese with the spicy, robust flavors of chili. Featuring ground beef, kidney beans, tomatoes, and a blend of cheeses, this one-pot skillet meal is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Canned and Broth
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
Pasta and Cheese
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Garnish (Optional)
- Chopped parsley or green onions
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5–7 minutes.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add Spices: Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to evenly coat the beef mixture.
- Add Liquids and Tomatoes: Mix in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Cook Pasta: Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni and cover the skillet. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Add Beans: Stir in the drained and rinsed kidney beans and cook for another 2–3 minutes until heated through.
- Finish with Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and creamy.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally garnish with chopped parsley or green onions before serving.
Notes
- For extra heat, add cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños along with the other spices.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated, adding a splash of broth to restore creaminess.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free if needed.
