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Chili Mac: The Ultimate Comfort Food
Some nights call for simple, hearty, and soul-satisfying meals. Chili Mac is the perfect solution—a comforting one-pot dish that combines two classics: rich, flavorful chili and cheesy macaroni. This dish is warm, filling, and budget-friendly, making it a family favorite that comes together in under an hour. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, game day, or meal prepping for the week, Chili Mac delivers flavor and comfort in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in the same pot, making cleanup a breeze.
- Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein, fiber, and carbs for a complete meal.
- Kid-Friendly: The cheesy pasta appeals to kids, while the chili flavors satisfy adults.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level, use different proteins, or add extra veggies.
Ingredients for Chili Mac
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter version)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups beef broth (or chicken/vegetable broth)
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Meat
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Add Onion and Garlic
Stir in the diced onion and garlic. Cook for 3–4 minutes, until the onion becomes soft and fragrant.
3. Build the Base
Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, black beans, and broth. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Cook the Pasta
Add the elbow macaroni directly into the chili mixture. Stir well to combine. Reduce heat, cover, and let the pasta cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta should be tender but not mushy.
5. Add the Cheese
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Reserve the remaining cheese for topping.
6. Serve
Spoon the Chili Mac into bowls, sprinkle with extra cheese, and garnish with parsley or cilantro. Serve hot.
Pro Tips for Perfect Chili Mac
- Use quality broth: A rich broth enhances the depth of flavor.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Keep it al dente to avoid mushy texture.
- Cheese matters: Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded.
- Make it spicy: Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or extra cayenne for a kick.
- Vegetarian option: Skip the meat and add more beans or veggies like corn and bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
Chili Mac is filling enough to stand on its own, but you can make it even better with sides and toppings:
- Top with sour cream, sliced green onions, or avocado for creaminess.
- Serve with warm cornbread or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Pair with a crisp green salad to balance the richness.
- Add a drizzle of hot sauce for spice lovers.
Storage and Meal Prep
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Chili Mac freezes well. Cool completely, then freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Why This Recipe Works
The magic of Chili Mac lies in its simplicity and versatility. The chili base provides bold, smoky, and slightly spicy notes, while the pasta absorbs the flavors and makes the dish hearty. The cheese binds everything together, creating a creamy and indulgent texture. By cooking everything in one pot, the flavors meld beautifully, and you’re left with a dish that feels both homey and satisfying.
Variations to Try
- Tex-Mex Style: Add corn, green chilies, and pepper jack cheese.
- Healthier Version: Use ground turkey, whole wheat pasta, and reduced-fat cheese.
- Extra Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese before serving.
- Kid-Friendly: Use mild chili powder and extra cheese for a less spicy version.
Final Thoughts
Chili Mac is more than just a quick dinner—it’s comfort in a bowl. Rich, cheesy, and deeply satisfying, it’s the kind of recipe that pleases everyone at the table. With its one-pot convenience and customizable nature, it’s a must-have in your weeknight dinner rotation. Whether you’re craving chili, pasta, or both, this dish delivers the best of both worlds.