Chili Mac is a cozy dish that mixes hearty chili with tender macaroni. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! Packed with flavors and topped with gooey cheese, it’s a meal everyone loves.
Whenever I make Chili Mac, I like to add some extra cheese on top because, let’s be honest, cheese makes everything better! Plus, it’s super easy to whip up any night of the week.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: A pound of ground beef gives the dish its heartiness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well. For a vegetarian twist, try using lentils or a mix of beans instead!
Onion and Garlic: These are essential for building flavor. I prefer yellow onions for their sweetness, but white onions also work. If you’re short on fresh garlic, 1 tsp of garlic powder is a good alternative.
Elbow Macaroni: This classic pasta shape is great for holding sauce and spices. If you don’t have elbow macaroni, any small pasta like shells or penne can be used.
Tomato Sauce and Diced Tomatoes: These provide the base for your chili flavor. If you prefer chunkier sauce, use two cans of diced tomatoes instead. You can also swap in fresh tomatoes in season!
Cheese: Cheddar cheese adds creaminess and flavor. If you’re looking for something different, try Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a bit of a kick. Vegan cheese can also work if you’re eating plant-based.
How Do You Cook the Perfect Chili Mac?
Cooking Chili Mac is all about timing and layers of flavor. Start with browning the ground beef and building the flavors with onions and spices. Make sure to stir in the spices early for that delicious aroma!
- Brown the beef over medium heat, breaking it into smaller pieces as it cooks.
- Cook the onion and garlic until they’re soft. This takes about 3-4 minutes.
- Add spices and let them cook for 1 minute, allowing their flavors to develop.
- Combine tomato sauce and diced tomatoes, then add the pasta and broth. Cover to help the pasta cook evenly.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and taste to adjust seasoning as it cooks.
Achieving the right pasta consistency is key—aim for al dente. This ensures your Chili Mac has the best texture!
Chili Mac Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 cup water or beef broth
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chili Mac recipe takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes for cooking, totaling approximately 30-35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and hearty meal for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes. No pink should remain!
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
Once the beef is browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook together until the onions become softened, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Add Spices:
Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy), salt, and black pepper. Allow the spices to cook for about 1 minute until they’re fragrant. This step is key for flavor!
4. Combine with Tomatoes:
Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and water or beef broth. Stir everything to combine well, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Cook the Macaroni:
Now, add the elbow macaroni to the skillet. Cover the pot and cook it over medium-low heat for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll want the macaroni to be tender and the sauce thickened.
6. Cheese It Up:
Once the macaroni is tender, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and mixes in evenly throughout. This will give your dish that delicious, cheesy goodness!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Chili Mac hot, topped with extra cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro for a fresh touch. Enjoy this warm and cheesy comfort food with your family and friends!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives if you want a leaner option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as turkey or chicken may cook a bit faster than beef.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make a vegetarian version by substituting the ground beef with cooked lentils, black beans, or a meat substitute like crumbled tofu or tempeh. Just adjust the seasoning to your taste!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist if needed.
Can I Freeze Chili Mac?
Yes, Chili Mac freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.