Chili Mac Recipe

Chili Mac is the ultimate comfort food — a hearty fusion of rich, meaty chili and creamy macaroni, all finished with a gooey cheese topping. This one-pot wonder not only saves time but also guarantees bold flavors and a satisfying meal every time. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a busy weeknight or looking for a cozy dish to impress friends, this recipe delivers both comfort and convenience.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Made in just one pot with minimal cleanup.
• Simple Ingredients: Everyday staples you likely already have in your pantry.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Family dinners, potlucks, or game night gatherings.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A cheesy, saucy dish everyone will rave about.
• Comfort in a Bowl: Warm, hearty, and incredibly satisfying — like a hug in food form.
  Unlike plain pasta or basic chili, this Chili Mac balances smoky spices, tender beef, creamy pasta, and melted cheese in one dish for maximum flavor.

Ingredients Needed

For the Base

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced

For the Meat & Sauce

• 500 g (1 lb) lean ground beef
• 800 g (28 oz) canned crushed tomatoes
• 420 g (14 oz) red kidney beans, drained
• 2 ½ cups (625 ml) beef broth (chicken broth works too)

For the Pasta & Cheese

• 250 g (8 oz) elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 2 cups (200 g) shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)

For Garnish

• ¼ cup fresh cilantro or coriander, finely chopped

Homemade Chili Spice Mix

• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 2 tsp paprika
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 ½ tsp onion powder (or substitute garlic powder)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 ¼ tsp salt

How to Make Chili Mac

Step 1: Build the Flavor Base

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add garlic and onion, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Toss in the red bell pepper and continue sautéing until the onion turns translucent — this step builds a flavorful foundation.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon. Stir frequently until the meat changes color from red to brown. Proper browning adds depth to the chili flavor.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Stir in crushed tomatoes, drained kidney beans, broth, spices, and uncooked pasta. Mix well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Cover the pot and cook for 12 minutes, or until the macaroni is al dente — tender but with a slight bite. The sauce should be rich and thick, clinging to the pasta without being soupy.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Turn off the heat but leave the pot on the stove. Stir in half of the shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, cover, and let it rest for 2 minutes until gooey and irresistible.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or coriander. Serve hot straight from the pot for maximum comfort.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving Ideas: Pair with a crisp green salad or warm crusty bread. For extra indulgence, top with sour cream or sliced jalapeños.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce, or microwave in short bursts.
• Freezing: Chili Mac freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Helpful Notes

• Cheese Choices: For extra stretchiness, mix mozzarella into the cheese blend.
• Make it Spicier: Add extra cayenne or chopped fresh chilies.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap elbow pasta for a gluten-free variety.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace beef with plant-based mince or extra beans.
• Consistency Tip: If too thick, stir in a little broth before serving.

Conclusion

This Chili Mac recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser — rich, cheesy, and loaded with comforting flavors all in one pot. It’s quick, budget-friendly, and perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings. If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and a star rating below — I’d love to hear your thoughts! Don’t forget to share it on Pinterest or Facebook to spread the comfort.
👉 What’s your favorite twist on Chili Mac? Extra spice? More cheese? Share your version in the comments!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Any short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells works well — just adjust cooking time slightly.

How do I make this gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth and spices are certified gluten-free.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! Let the dish cool completely before freezing in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

How thick should the sauce be?

The sauce should be thick enough to coat the pasta but still a little saucy — it will thicken further as it cools.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the ground beef for lentils, plant-based mince, or extra beans for a hearty meat-free version.