Chili Mac is a cozy and filling dish made with pasta, chili, and cheese. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! You get the spiciness of chili mixed with the smoothness of macaroni.
Honestly, who doesn’t love cheese? I usually add a bit of extra cheese on top. It’s the perfect comfort food for a chilly night, and it’s super easy to whip up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: The classic choice for Chili Mac! If you have other pasta on hand, like shells or rotini, feel free to swap them in. Just adjust the cooking time if necessary!
Ground Beef: Ground turkey or chicken can be great low-fat alternatives. For a vegetarian option, you could use black beans or lentils instead, which add protein and work well with the flavors.
Tomato Sauce: If you prefer a little extra kick, try using diced tomatoes with green chilies. Also, canned crushed tomatoes are a nice option for a slightly different texture.
Chili Powder: If you want a milder dish, reduce the amount or use a mild taco seasoning instead. You could also experiment with smoked paprika for a smoky flavor if you like!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is tasty, but you can use Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a creamy texture or even a spicier kick.
How Do I Make My Chili Mac Extra Creamy?
To achieve that delightful creamy texture, the key lies in how you mix the cheese into the dish. Here’s my tip:
- Once you add the cooked macaroni to the meat mixture, stir until everything is well combined.
- Remove the skillet from heat and then add half of the cheese. This helps it melt evenly and creates a luscious sauce.
- Top with the remaining cheese just before serving for that melty, gooey goodness!
Don’t forget to let it cool for a minute before serving for the best texture!
Chili Mac Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) elbow macaroni
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chili Mac will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping your ingredients and cooking, plus about 20 minutes for simmering and mixing everything together. It’s quick and perfect for a weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once it’s cooked, drain it well and set it aside for later. You want it just firm enough to hold up in the chili!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet or saucepan, add the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and cook it for about 3-4 minutes until it gets nice and soft. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds, just long enough for the garlic to become fragrant.
3. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the pan and break it up with your spoon as it cooks. Keep stirring until it’s all browned and there’s no pink left. If there’s extra grease in the pan, feel free to drain it off before moving to the next step!
4. Spice it Up:
Once your meat is browned, stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika (if you’re using it), salt, and pepper. Give it a minute or so of cooking to toast those spices and bring out their flavor.
5. Create the Chili Mixture:
Pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth. Stir it well so everything is nicely combined. Bring this mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes. You’ll notice it thickening up a bit and all those delicious flavors blending together!
6. Combine Pasta and Chili:
Now it’s time to add the cooked macaroni into the skillet. Stir everything together until the macaroni is well coated with the sauce. It’s really starting to look like a comforting bowl of chili mac!
7. Add Cheese for Creaminess:
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese melts into the dish and creates a smooth texture. Yum!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out the Chili Mac into bowls, and top each serving with the remaining cheddar cheese. If you like, sprinkle some fresh cilantro or parsley on top. Serve it warm and enjoy every cheesy bite!
This recipe gives you a creamy, cheesy, and hearty Chili Mac—perfect for cozy dinners with family or friends!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Yes, absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work as great leaner alternatives. Follow the recipe the same way, and you’ll still get a delicious Chili Mac!
What Can I Use Instead of Beef Broth?
No problem! You can substitute beef broth with chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water if you’re in a pinch. Just keep the flavors in mind, as using broth will enhance the overall taste.
How Can I Spice Up This Dish?
If you’re looking for a bit more heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when you add in the tomato sauce. You can also incorporate more chili powder to taste.
Can I Store Leftovers?
Definitely! Store any leftover Chili Mac in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.