Chili Mac is a cozy and hearty dish that combines warm chili with pasta, giving you the best of both worlds. It’s loaded with beans, meat, and cheese, making it super filling!
Whenever I make Chili Mac, my family can’t get enough! It’s like a warm hug in a bowl. Plus, it’s easy to whip up in one pot, so cleanup is a breeze—win-win!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less grease. If you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well, too. Vegetarian options like lentils or plant-based meat substitutes are great for non-meat eaters.
Onion and Garlic: These add depth and flavor. If you don’t have fresh onion or garlic, onion powder and garlic powder can be used in a pinch. Just remember to use less powder than you would fresh!
Kidney Beans: If you’re out of kidney beans, black beans or pinto beans are perfect alternatives. They add a lovely creaminess and texture, too!
Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes are super convenient. If you’re using fresh tomatoes, about 2 cups diced will work. Don’t forget to add a bit of water as fresh tomatoes contain less liquid.
Cheddar Cheese: While cheddar is classic, feel free to mix it up! Monterey Jack or pepper jack can provide a nice twist. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try a plant-based cheese.
How Do I Ensure My Pasta is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the elbow macaroni just right can be tricky since it cooks right in the sauce. Here are tips to help you out:
- Make sure the liquid is at a simmer before adding the pasta. This helps it cook evenly.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Start checking for doneness a couple of minutes before the suggested cooking time on the pasta box. You want a little bite, or “al dente.”
- If the mixture seems dry but the pasta isn’t done, add a splash more broth or water.
With these tips, you’ll have Chili Mac that’s flavorful and perfectly cooked every time! Enjoy your cozy meal!
Chili Mac
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Main Dish:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
Spices and Seasonings:
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Cooking:
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
For The Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chili Mac recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 20 minutes to cook, making a total of about 35 minutes from start to finish. Great for a quick weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet or pot, heat the skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. If there’s excess fat, drain it to keep your Chili Mac lean.
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté them together until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Incorporate Spices:
Now, stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for about 1 minute to let the spices release their wonderful aroma.
4. Combine Main Ingredients:
Add the diced tomatoes (with juice) and kidney beans into the mixture. Pour in the beef broth or water, stir everything together, and bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Add Elbow Macaroni:
Once simmering, stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Cover the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed—this should take about 10-12 minutes.
6. Stir in Cheese:
After the pasta is cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and well mixed throughout the dish.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or cilantro over the top for a burst of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting, hearty Chili Mac!
This recipe delivers a deliciously rich and filling one-pot meal with tender beef, wholesome kidney beans, and creamy cheese, perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a healthier alternative and works great in this Chili Mac. Just cook it until it’s browned, similar to how you would with beef.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or cooked lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You can also add more beans or veggies for extra texture!
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the Chili Mac up to the point of adding the cheese. Store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat it on the stove and stir in the cheese until melted.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems a bit dry.
