Remember that thick, tomatoey smell that hits the minute you come inside from sledding? Chili mac is basically childhood in a bowl—now trending like crazy on Pinterest (again). This easy recipe is one-pot, 30 minutes, and no stress. Just comfort. Just cozy warmth. Just right.
It’s a hearty, nostalgic dish that warms the house and the belly. Think elbow noodles, ground beef, and melty cheddar. Pantry stuff. Weeknight magic. Like your mom’s casserole, but with a spicy little upgrade. Full details in the blog!
My grandma made her version every Sunday after church, in this dented pot she swore brought flavor. I’ve been tweaking it since I was ten—no gadgets, no frills, just real food. And yes, I added a little kick. I tested it. You’ll love the secret!
Why This Chili Mac Will Be Your Go-To
Let’s talk about the beautiful chaos that is chili mac. It’s hearty, cheesy, and practically screams “come on in and stay a while.” All you need is one pot and 30 minutes to bring this comforting dish together—it’s like a warm hug in a bowl, especially after a long day. Ground beef, tender elbow noodles, and a rich tomato base combine with melty cheese for a little slice of childhood nostalgia, but with a spicy kick that keeps it modern.
Don’t worry about fancy ingredients here. This chili mac keeps things simple with pantry staples! You’ll need elbow macaroni, ground beef, and a mix of tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and kidney beans to set up that classic chili base. Add a small onion, bell pepper, and garlic for a fresh, flavorful boost. The chili seasoning packet adds those smoky, slightly spicy vibes that bring it all together.
Once the chili is done, we shift gears to mac and cheese mode with a creamy sauce made from butter, flour, milk, and cheddar cheese. And that little secret ingredient? A splash of hot sauce and a pinch of mustard powder—it gives a subtle zing that sets this recipe apart!
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in the chili seasoning, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes, followed by the chicken broth and kidney beans. Let that simmer for about 10 minutes so all the flavors can mingle.
Add the uncooked macaroni directly to the pot, stirring to coat the noodles in all that saucy goodness. Cover and cook on low for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. While that works its magic, whip up the cheese sauce by melting butter, whisking in flour, and gradually stirring in milk and cream. Add the mustard powder and hot sauce, then melt in the shredded cheddar cheese.
Once the noodles are tender, stir the cheese sauce into the pot. Top with the remaining cheese, cover, and let it melt before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy!
Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting
Overcooked noodles? Make sure to keep an eye on the pot during the final simmer. Stir every couple of minutes, and test a noodle right before the timer goes off.
Watery chili? Let the base simmer an extra 5 minutes without a lid before adding the pasta to help the sauce thicken. Also, make sure to drain your kidney beans properly!
Bland flavor? Don’t skimp on the seasoning packet (or homemade blend). Taste as you go, and adjust with extra salt, pepper, or even a dash of hot sauce to wake things up.
Add Your Twist
This chili mac is endlessly customizable! Want to make it vegetarian? Swap the beef for diced mushrooms or plant-based crumbles. Prefer a milder version? Skip the hot sauce and use Monterey Jack cheese instead of cheddar. Or, if you’re like me and live by the motto “spice is life,” toss in a finely diced jalapeño or sprinkle a little cayenne into the sauce.
Pro Tip: If you’re low on elbow noodles, any short pasta shape—like shell or penne—will work just as well. It’s chili mac, not rocket science.
Quick Ingredient Swaps for Chili Mac
Ingredient
Swap Idea
Notes
Ground Beef
Ground turkey or mushrooms
For a leaner or vegetarian option.
Cheddar Cheese
Monterey Jack or Colby
Slightly creamier and milder alternatives.
Elbow Macaroni
Penne or Rotini
Use what you have on hand!
Expert Insight: The Science Behind a Great Chili Mac Recipe
Combining protein-rich chili with pasta creates a balanced meal of complex carbohydrates and lean protein. The spice blend not only enhances flavor but can also boost metabolism. A well-made chili mac recipe maximizes comfort and nutrition in every hearty bite.
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A Cozy Chili Mac Moment
Chili Mac has always been our go-to on nights when chaos reigns and patience runs thin. I remember Rachel and I laughing over spilled cheese and burnt edges, but that comforting mix of chili and pasta always brings us back together—flaws and all. It’s simple, messy, and utterly delicious, much like our kitchen adventures.
FAQs ( Chili Mac )
What is Chili Mac?
Chili Mac is a comforting and hearty dish that combines chili and macaroni pasta. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave something warm and satisfying. The classic recipe includes ground beef, tomatoes, beans, chili spices, and elbow macaroni, all cooked together to create a delicious one-pot meal.
How long does it take to make Chili Mac?
Preparing Chili Mac usually takes around 30 to 45 minutes from start to finish. This includes browning the meat, simmering the chili, cooking the pasta, and combining everything. It’s a quick and easy meal that fits perfectly into a busy schedule without compromising on flavor.
Can I make Chili Mac in advance?
Absolutely! Chili Mac tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded together. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it’s too thick.
Is Chili Mac gluten-free?
Traditional Chili Mac uses regular macaroni which contains gluten. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by swapping regular pasta with gluten-free macaroni or another gluten-free pasta of your choice. Just be sure that all other ingredients, like canned beans and chili seasonings, don’t contain gluten additives.
What are some popular toppings for Chili Mac?
Popular toppings for Chili Mac include shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, sliced jalapeños, chopped green onions, and avocado slices. Adding a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice can brighten up the dish with a fresh twist. Feel free to customize it to your taste!
Wrapping Up This Cozy Chili Mac Recipe
Chili mac comes together in just 30 minutes, with simple pantry ingredients turning into a warm, cheesy hug of comfort. It’s an easy, no-fuss dinner that’s hearty, satisfying, and just perfect for kitchen nights when you want cozy without the hassle. You’ll love how the flavors blend—and how fast it disappears from the bowl!
Feel free to swap ground beef for mushrooms or add a dash more hot sauce if you like it spicy. Leftovers keep well in the fridge and reheat beautifully, making this a perfect family-friendly staple. A pro tip I’ve learned? Let it rest a few minutes after cooking to deepen those cozy flavors.
I’d love to hear how you make this recipe your own! Did it remind you of a family favorite? Snap a pic, share your twists, or pass it along to someone who needs a little kitchen comfort. Here’s to homemade meals that bring joy and just the right bit of delicious chaos.
A comforting and easy one-pot chili mac recipe combining hearty ground beef chili with creamy mac and cheese, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
1 lbs. ground beef 80% lean
1 small onion diced
½ cup bell pepper diced
3 cloves garlic diced
1.25 oz. packet chili seasoning mix
1 tablespoon tomato paste
8 oz. tomato sauce
14.5 oz. can diced tomatoes undrained
½ cup chicken broth
1 15 oz. can kidney beans drained
2 cups macaroni uncooked
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
½ cup heavy cream
1 cup milk
½ teaspoon mustard powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
½ teaspoon hot sauce
1 ½ cups cheddar cheese shredded
1 ½ cups cheddar cheese shredded for baking
fresh parsley to garnish
Instructions
Brown the ground beef with onion, bell pepper, and garlic in a large pot.
Stir in chili seasoning, tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and kidney beans. Simmer for 15 minutes.
Cook macaroni according to package instructions, drain and set aside.
In a separate saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to make a roux.
Gradually add heavy cream and milk, stirring constantly until thickened.
Add mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, hot sauce, and cheddar cheese to create the cheese sauce.
Combine cooked macaroni, chili mixture, and cheese sauce in the large pot, stirring well.
Transfer to a baking dish, top with remaining cheddar cheese, and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes until bubbly.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
Use homemade chili seasoning for a fresher taste
Adjust the hot sauce to your preferred spice level
This dish can be made in one pot for easier cleanup
Sharing a handpicked collection of easy, healthy recipes made in our family kitchen. Rachel brings comforting classics, while Emily adds fresh, modern ideas—together creating meals that are simple, flavorful, and family-friendly.
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