This Chili Mac is a cozy dish that combines hearty chili with tender macaroni. It’s warm, cheesy, and super easy to whip up—all in one pot!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a big, comforting bowl of this? I like to add a little extra cheese on top because, let’s face it, cheese makes everything better! 🧀
You can make this meal in no time, which is perfect when you’re hungry and want something delicious. It’s a family favorite, and I bet it will be yours too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the heart of the dish, providing flavor and protein. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well. For a vegetarian version, you can use black beans or lentils instead.
Chili Powder: This spice adds a warm, robust flavor. You can adjust the amount based on your heat preference. If you don’t have chili powder, a mix of paprika and cayenne can work as a substitute.
Elbow Macaroni: Elbow macaroni is traditional, but feel free to switch it up! Any small pasta like shells or penne will work great. Gluten-free pasta is also a good option if needed.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a wonderful flavor, but you can mix it up with Monterey Jack for a creamier texture. If you’re dairy-free, try using a plant-based cheese alternative.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Macaroni in Chili Mac?
A common struggle is getting the pasta just right. The key is to add the uncooked macaroni directly into the chili mixture and simmer it together. Here’s how to do it:
- After bringing the chili to a boil, stir in the uncooked macaroni.
- Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Keep an eye on it to make sure the pasta doesn’t overcook; it should absorb the liquid and be tender but not mushy.
This method helps the pasta absorb all the delicious flavors of the chili and keeps the dish creamy and comforting.
How to Make Delicious Chili Mac!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Sour cream, for topping (optional)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chili Mac recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time, making the total time around 40 minutes. It’s a quick and hearty meal perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the ground beef. Cook it while breaking it apart with a spoon until it’s browned and cooked through—this should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s too much fat in the pan, feel free to drain some away.
2. Add Onions and Garlic:
Next, toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir them into the beef, cooking until the onion is soft and translucent. This usually takes around 3-4 minutes and will add a lovely flavor to the dish.
3. Add Spices:
Now it’s time to flavor things up! Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Let it cook for just a minute until you can really smell those delicious spices!
4. Mix in the Tomatoes:
Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (with all the juices), the tomato sauce, and the beef broth (or water). Give everything a good stir to mix it nicely.
5. Cook the Macaroni:
Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the uncooked elbow macaroni. Stir it well, then reduce the heat to a low simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The pasta should be tender and most of the liquid absorbed.
6. Add the Cheese:
When the pasta is perfectly cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and mixed throughout. This makes your Chili Mac creamy and super cheesy!
7. Serve and Garnish:
Finally, serve your Chili Mac hot! You can add a dollop of sour cream on top and sprinkle with chopped cilantro or parsley for a fresh touch.
Enjoy your hearty, flavorful Chili Mac!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Yes, you can! Ground turkey or chicken are great lean alternatives. For a vegetarian option, consider using black beans or lentils for added protein and texture.
What Can I Substitute for Elbow Macaroni?
If you don’t have elbow macaroni, feel free to substitute with any small pasta shape, such as shells or penne. Gluten-free pasta is also a fantastic choice for a gluten-free version.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Chili Mac in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chili mixture and cook the pasta ahead of time, then store it separately. When you’re ready to serve, combine them and reheat gently.
