Chili Mac is the ultimate comfort food mash-up, hearty chili meets creamy, cheesy macaroni in one irresistible bowl. Loaded with seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese, this dish is cozy, filling, and perfect for busy weeknights.
Whether you grew up eating chili mac or are trying it for the first time, this easy recipe delivers big flavor with simple ingredients. It’s a one-pot meal that the whole family will love, and leftovers taste even better the next day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comfort Food Classic – Warm, cheesy, and satisfying
- One-Pot Meal – Minimal cleanup
- Family-Friendly – Loved by kids and adults
- Quick & Easy – Ready in about 40 minutes
- Budget-Friendly – Simple pantry ingredients
- Perfect for Leftovers – Great reheated or frozen
Preparation and Cooking Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained (optional)
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- 1½ tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp cumin
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional: sour cream, green onions, jalapeños
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Beef:
In a large pot or deep skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned.
Drain excess grease if needed.
2. Add Aromatics:
Add onion and garlic to the beef.
Cook until softened and fragrant.
3. Build the Chili Base:
Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beans (if using), broth, chili powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Cook the Pasta:
Stir in uncooked macaroni.
Cover and simmer 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
5. Add Cheese:
Lower heat and stir in shredded cheddar until melted and creamy.
6. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
How to Serve
Plating Tips:
Serve in deep bowls with extra cheese melted on top.
Side Pairings:
- Cornbread
- Garlic bread
- Simple green salad
Leftover Uses:
- Chili mac casserole bake
- Stuffed bell peppers
- Nacho topping
Beverage Pairing:
- Iced tea
- Lemonade
- Light beer
Additional Tips
- Stir often so pasta doesn’t stick.
- Add more broth if it thickens too much.
- Use sharp cheddar for bold flavor.
- Let it rest 5 minutes before serving for best texture.
Variations
- Spicy Chili Mac: Add cayenne or jalapeños
- Cheesy Upgrade: Add mozzarella or pepper jack
- Turkey Chili Mac: Use ground turkey
- No-Bean Version: Skip beans for a classic style
Storage & Freezing
Refrigerate: Up to 4 days
Freeze: Up to 2 months
Reheat: Stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth
Special Equipment
- Large pot or deep skillet
- Wooden spoon
Frequently Asked Questions
Is chili mac the same as goulash?
They’re similar, but chili mac uses chili spices and beans.
Can I make chili mac ahead of time?
Yes—it tastes even better the next day.
Can I use boxed macaroni?
Yes, but cooking pasta directly in the sauce gives better flavor.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta and adjust liquid slightly.
Conclusion
Chili Mac is a hearty, comforting classic that brings together everything you love about chili and macaroni in one easy dish. Warm, cheesy, and endlessly satisfying, it’s perfect for busy nights, family dinners, and cozy leftovers.
