If you are searching for a hearty and comforting meal that combines the creamy goodness of mac and cheese with a flavorful, spicy kick, this Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe will quickly become your new go-to dish. It brings together tender elbow macaroni, savory ground beef, zesty spices, and melty cheddar cheese in one pot of pure magic. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving a cozy dinner for one, this recipe is a perfect balance of simple ingredients and bold flavors that come together in under an hour.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun, and this Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe is proof that just a handful of simple, quality components can make a big impact. Each ingredient plays a key role, from the tender pasta and seasoned beef to the creamy melted cheese that ties everything together beautifully.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni: The perfect pasta shape to hold all that cheesy, meaty goodness on each bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: To sauté your aromatics and bring out deeper flavors.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds a sweet, savory base that complements the spices.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a punch of fragrant, savory depth.
- 1 pound ground beef: The protein powerhouse that makes this dish hearty and satisfying.
- 2 tablespoons chili powder: Delivers that classic chili flavor with a smoky heat.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Warms up the dish with its earthy, slightly nutty notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Brings color and a subtle sweet smokiness.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): Adds an exciting kick for those who like it spicy.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds juiciness and a bright acidity that cuts through the richness.
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Provides texture, heartiness, and fiber.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Brings creamy meltiness and a sharp tang that’s the heart of mac and cheese.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional): Adds a fresh, herbal brightness when garnished on top.
How to Make Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Elbow Macaroni
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until just al dente. This means it should be tender but still have a slight bite. Drain the pasta and set it aside. Cooking it properly will ensure it holds up nicely later when mixed with the chili flavors and cheese.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In a spacious skillet over medium heat, warm up the olive oil. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes until it turns translucent and soft. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook it just until fragrant, which only takes about 30 seconds. This step releases the aromatic foundation for the chili mac you are about to build.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook until the beef loses its pink color and is thoroughly browned. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat to keep the dish from getting greasy. Browning the beef gives the dish a deep, savory base that’s simply irresistible.
Step 4: Spice It Up
Now it’s time to add all those amazing spices. Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir everything for 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the spices to toast slightly. This step is crucial as it intensifies the flavors and fills your kitchen with a warm, inviting scent.
Step 5: Add the Tomatoes and Beans
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and the drained kidney beans. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens just a bit. This is where the chili aspect really shines, combining richness with a touch of acidity.
Step 6: Combine with Pasta and Cheese
Fold the cooked macaroni into the skillet, mixing it thoroughly with the chili mixture. Reduce the heat to low, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top, and cover the skillet. Allow the cheese to melt fully, creating that oh-so-creamy texture you crave. This finishing step turns your chili mac into an ultimate comfort food classic.
How to Serve Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro adds a beautiful pop of green and a fresh, herbaceous lift that balances the richness of the cheese and meat. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or slices of jalapeño to customize the heat to your liking. These simple garnishes make all the difference to brighten up every bite.
Side Dishes
To balance the richness, serve your Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like zucchini and corn. Cornbread or garlic bread on the side can also be a wonderful addition, adding texture and soaking up all those delicious cheesy, chili-infused juices.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, transfer the chili mac to individual ramekins, top with extra cheese and breadcrumbs, and broil until golden and bubbly. Or turn it into a loaded chili mac casserole by layering with extra beans and cheese for a baked version everyone will love. Serving it family-style in a big cast-iron skillet is equally inviting and perfect for sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe into airtight containers and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. This dish holds up very well, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy weekday dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of the chili mac by placing them in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It’s best to freeze without the cheese topping to prevent texture changes. Frozen chili mac will keep well for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chili mac slowly in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating and to help the cheese remelt smoothly. Add a splash of milk if it feels too thick and top with fresh cheese or cilantro after reheating for a fresh finish.
FAQs
Can I make this Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based protein like textured vegetable protein (TVP), cooked lentils, or extra beans. The spices and cheese will still deliver all the comforting flavors you love.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Sharp cheddar is ideal for its melting qualities and bold flavor, but you can mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for extra creaminess or a little heat. Avoid pre-shredded cheese if possible, as it can be coated with anti-caking agents that affect melting.
How can I adjust the spice level?
If you prefer a milder dish, omit the cayenne pepper entirely and reduce the chili powder slightly. To ramp up the heat, add chopped fresh chilies, hot sauce, or extra cayenne to your taste while cooking.
Is it possible to use different pasta shapes?
Definitely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, small pasta like shells, rotini, or penne work wonderfully too. Just adjust cooking times according to the package instructions to ensure perfect texture.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the elbow macaroni with a gluten-free pasta variety. Ensure that your canned beans and spices do not contain any gluten additives. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
This Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe is truly a celebration of comfort food done right. Every spoonful brings delicious layers of spice, cheesy goodness, and hearty ingredients that are just so satisfying. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try and see how quickly it becomes a beloved favorite in your kitchen. Nothing beats the warmth and joy that a homemade bowl of chili mac and cheese can bring!
Print
Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chili Mac and Cheese is a hearty and flavorful one-pan meal combining tender elbow macaroni with a spicy ground beef chili mixture, kidney beans, and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, this dish balances the warmth of chili spices with creamy cheese, topped with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
Chili Beef Mixture
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
Cheese and Garnish
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to use later in the recipe.
- Sauté Onions: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until they become translucent and soft, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Brown Ground Beef: Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks evenly. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Season the Meat: Stir in chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper if using, along with salt and black pepper to taste. Cook these spices with the meat for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to release their flavors.
- Add Tomatoes and Beans: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and the drained kidney beans. Stir well to combine all ingredients, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 to 7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the skillet, stirring thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly with the chili mixture.
- Melt Cheese: Reduce the heat to low, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, then cover the skillet with a lid. Let it cook for a few minutes until the cheese melts completely.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the lid, garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired, and serve hot for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Notes
- For vegetarians, substitute ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or extra vegetables like mushrooms.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the heat; omit it for milder flavors.
- Use low-fat cheese to reduce calories and fat content.
- Ensure the pasta is not overcooked as it will be combined and heated again with the chili mixture.
- Fresh cilantro garnish adds a nice contrast but can be omitted if unavailable.
