Introduction

This hearty Chili Mac combines two comfort food favorites into one satisfying meal. Ground beef, tomatoes, and beans simmer with pasta in a rich, spiced sauce topped with melted cheese. It’s a simple one-pot dinner perfect for busy weeknights. For another delicious ground beef and pasta dish, try this Cowboy Pasta Salad Recipe.

Ingredients

This comforting Chili Mac recipe combines the rich, savory flavors of chili with the creamy, satisfying texture of macaroni for a hearty one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

• 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
• 2 cups elbow macaroni (or other small pasta)
• 2 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth)
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Brown the Ground Beef

Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.

Cook until the beef is fully browned and no pink remains, about 5–7 minutes. For extra flavor, season lightly with salt and pepper during this step.

Step 2 — Sauté the Aromatics

Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes fragrant.

Stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning, which can create a bitter taste in your Chili Mac.

Step 3 — Add Tomatoes and Beans

Pour in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and kidney beans. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

For a richer chili base, you can also add a small amount of beef broth or water at this stage.

Step 4 — Season the Chili

Stir in chili powder, cumin, and any additional spices like paprika or oregano. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Let the chili simmer for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 5 — Cook the Macaroni

While the chili simmers, cook elbow macaroni according to package directions in a separate pot of salted boiling water.

Cook until al dente, as the pasta will continue to soften slightly when combined with the chili.

Step 6 — Combine Chili and Pasta

Drain the cooked macaroni and add it directly to the pot of chili. Stir gently to coat every piece of pasta with the savory sauce.

If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of pasta water or broth to reach your desired consistency.

Step 7 — Final Simmer and Serve

Let the Chili Mac simmer together for 2–3 minutes over low heat, allowing the pasta to absorb some of the chili flavors.

Serve hot, garnished with shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Nutritional Information

Calories	450
Protein	25g
Carbohydrates	52g
Fat	15g
Fiber	8g
Sodium	780mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Lean Ground Turkey — A lighter protein option that absorbs the chili spices beautifully while reducing saturated fat.
• Lentils or Black Beans — Plant-based proteins that add fiber and heartiness for a satisfying vegetarian chili mac.
• Whole Wheat or Chickpea Pasta — Boosts fiber content and offers a gluten-free alternative with a nutty flavor.
• Zucchini Noodles or Spaghetti Squash — A low-carb swap that lightens the dish while adding vegetable servings.
• Nutritional Yeast or Vegan Cheese — Provides a cheesy flavor without dairy, perfect for lactose-free chili mac.
• Low-Sodium Broth & Tomatoes — Cuts salt significantly while maintaining the rich, savory base of the chili.
• Greek Yogurt Topping — A tangy, high-protein alternative to sour cream that cools the spice.

Serving Suggestions

• Top your chili mac with a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and fresh chopped chives for a cool, creamy contrast.
• Serve with a side of buttery cornbread or warm garlic bread to soak up every last bit of the flavorful sauce.
• For a fresh counterpoint, pair this hearty chili mac with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.
• Transform your chili mac into a complete meal by adding a side of roasted vegetables like broccoli or zucchini.
• For a fun game day or party presentation, serve the chili mac directly from the skillet with plenty of toppings for guests to customize their own bowls.
• This comforting dish is perfect for a casual family dinner, a potluck, or a cozy night in during colder weather.

This classic chili mac is incredibly versatile and satisfying, making it a crowd-pleaser for any easy weeknight meal or casual gathering.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using lean ground beef, which lacks flavor and fat for richness. Fix: Opt for 80/20 ground beef; the fat renders into the sauce for a more flavorful Chili Mac.
• Mistake: Overcooking the pasta until it’s mushy in the final dish. Fix: Cook pasta al dente separately and add it at the end to maintain perfect texture.
• Mistake: Skipping the tomato paste sauté, resulting in a flat, one-dimensional taste. Fix: Cook tomato paste with aromatics for a minute to deepen its flavor before adding liquids.
• Mistake: Adding raw spices directly to the liquid, making them taste gritty and underdeveloped. Fix: Toast chili powder and cumin in the hot fat for 30 seconds to unlock their full aroma.
• Mistake: Using pre-shredded cheese with anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Fix: Always shred cheese from a block for a creamy, velvety cheese sauce in your Chili Mac.
• Mistake: Not simmering the chili base long enough, leading to a thin, watery sauce. Fix: Let the meat and bean mixture simmer uncovered for at least 20 minutes to thicken properly.
• Mistake: Forgetting to season in layers, causing a bland final product. Fix: Season the meat, the sauce, and again at the end to build a well-rounded flavor profile.
• Mistake: Using only one type of bean, which limits texture and flavor complexity. Fix: Combine kidney beans and black beans for a more interesting and hearty Chili Mac.
• Mistake: Adding dairy (like sour cream or cheese) to boiling hot chili, which can cause it to break or curdle. Fix: Let the chili cool slightly off the heat before stirring in dairy components.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store leftover Chili Mac in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until it reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

Always let your Chili Mac cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing to maintain quality and safety.

Conclusion

This easy Chili Mac recipe delivers a comforting, one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights. For another hearty chili variation, try the Over the Top Chili Recipe 😮‍💨. Give this Chili Mac a try and share your thoughts in the comments!

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FAQs

Can I make this Chili Mac ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this Chili Mac in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.

What can I use instead of ground beef?

You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based ground meat alternative. For a vegetarian Chili Mac, use lentils or an extra can of beans. The cooking method remains the same for any of these options.

How can I make my Chili Mac spicier?

To increase the heat, add more chili powder, a pinch of cayenne, or some diced jalapeños when cooking the onions. You can also stir in a dash of hot sauce at the end. Adjust the spices gradually to suit your taste for the perfect spicy Chili Mac.