Chili Mac is a warm and comforting dish that combines pasta, chili, and cheese. It’s like having a cozy hug in a bowl! You’ll love the rich flavors that come together so easily.
Honestly, it’s my go-to meal when I want something quick and filling. Just cook the pasta, stir in the chili, sprinkle some cheese, and bam—dinner is served! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein in Chili Mac. You can use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner option. If cooking for vegetarians, replace it with lentils or a meat substitute like Beyond Meat.
Chili Beans: These add heartiness and flavor to the dish. If you can’t find chili beans, kidney beans or black beans work great as substitutes. You could even throw in some cooked lentils for a different texture.
Elbow Macaroni: Traditional for this dish but feel free to swap it with any pasta you love! Penne, shells, or fusilli are all great alternatives. Gluten-free pasta also works well if you’re avoiding gluten.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives fantastic flavor. You can swap it for Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a little kick. Vegan cheese is also an option if you’re keeping it plant-based.
How Do I Perfectly Sauté My Onions and Garlic?
Sautéing onions and garlic is key for building flavor in your Chili Mac. Follow these steps to do it right:
- Heat your skillet over medium heat before adding oil or butter.
- Add the diced onions first; let them cook for about 3-4 minutes until they’re soft.
- Now, add your garlic. Cook for only another minute—garlic cooks faster and can burn easily!
- Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Once both are tender and fragrant, you’re set to add the spices! Good sautéing brings out their natural sweetness and depth, which is crucial for a flavorful Chili Mac.
Chili Mac
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or similar pasta)
- 1 (15 oz) can chili beans (or kidney beans), drained and rinsed
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus more for topping
For Garnishing:
- Sour cream, for serving
- Chopped green onions or chives for garnish
For Cooking the Pasta:
- 4 cups water or beef broth (for cooking pasta)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chili Mac recipe will take you about 30-40 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping ingredients and about 20-30 minutes cooking, including simmering the chili and boiling the pasta. The result is a delicious, hearty meal that’s ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook it until it’s browned and fully cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, make sure to drain it out to keep your dish from being greasy.
2. Add Aromatics:
Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic into the skillet with the beef. Sauté these together until the onions turn soft and translucent, which should take around 3-4 minutes. The smell will be delicious at this point!
3. Spice it Up:
Now, it’s time to add flavor! Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook this mixture for an additional minute to toast the spices and bring out their wonderful aromas.
4. Mix in the Beans and Tomatoes:
Add the drained chili beans, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce to the skillet. Stir everything together until well combined, and let it simmer gently on low heat as you prepare the pasta.
5. Cook the Pasta:
In a separate pot, bring 4 cups of water or beef broth to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 7-8 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
6. Combine the Pasta and Chili:
Now, add the cooked macaroni directly into the chili mixture and give it a good stir to combine everything evenly. You want every piece of pasta to be coated in that tasty chili!
7. Stir in the Cheese:
Remove the skillet from heat and mix in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and is fully incorporated into the mixture—this gives the Chili Mac that creamy goodness we all crave.
8. Serve It Up:
It’s time to enjoy your creation! Serve the Chili Mac warm in bowls. Top with extra shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of chopped green onions or chives for that final touch.
9. Dig In!
Enjoy this cozy Chili Mac as a comforting and hearty meal. It’s perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week ahead!
This Chili Mac combines tender macaroni pasta with seasoned ground beef, chili beans, and a rich tomato sauce, finished with melty cheddar cheese for a satisfying and easy-to-make comfort food dish. The garnishes of sour cream and green onions add a fresh, creamy touch.
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner substitute for ground beef. Just be sure not to overcook it, as turkey can dry out more easily. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with cooked lentils or a plant-based meat substitute. You can also add diced bell peppers or other veggies for extra flavor and nutrition!
Can I Make Chili Mac Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the Chili Mac ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick. Just be aware that pasta can soak up the sauce over time.
What Should I Serve with Chili Mac?
This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but you can pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread. For a healthier option, roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli also complement Chili Mac nicely!
