Chili Mac Recipe: Comfort Food in a Bowl
Chili mac is the ultimate weeknight dinner that combines two beloved comfort foods into one hearty, satisfying dish. Creamy pasta meets zesty chili sauce in this simple yet incredibly delicious recipe that your whole family will devour.
Best of all, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings when you want something homemade without the fuss. Forget takeout-this one-pot wonder delivers restaurant-quality flavor right from your kitchen.
Nutrition Facts
Per 100g serving:
- Calories: 185
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 520mg
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) chili beans with sauce
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add your elbow macaroni. Cook according to package directions until al dente, usually around 8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside in a colander, but don’t rinse it-the starch helps the sauce cling beautifully to each piece.
2. Brown the ground beef
In the same pot you used for pasta, heat it over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks, stirring frequently until it’s completely browned and no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes.
This step builds wonderful flavor through browning, so don’t rush it.
3. Sauté the aromatics
Add the diced onion to the browned beef and cook for about 2 minutes until it softens slightly. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
These aromatics form the flavor foundation of your dish.
4. Add the spices
Sprinkle the chili powder and cumin over the meat mixture and stir well to coat everything evenly. Toast the spices for about 1 minute in the oil, which helps release their essential oils and deepens their flavor.
You’ll notice an amazing aroma filling your kitchen at this point.
5. Combine the sauces
Pour in the tomato sauce and the entire can of chili beans with its sauce. Stir everything together thoroughly, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
These flavorful bits are liquid gold and contain tons of savory depth.
6. Return the pasta
Add your cooked pasta back into the pot with the chili mixture and stir until every piece is coated with the delicious sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes over medium heat to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
7. Season and finish
Taste your chili mac and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts completely and creates a creamy, rich consistency. Serve immediately while everything is hot and the cheese is still gooey.
Tips for Variations or Side Dishes
You can easily customize this recipe to suit your preferences. Try adding jalapeños for extra heat, or stir in some corn for sweetness and texture. For a protein boost, add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to individual servings.
Pair your chili mac with a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the dish. Cornbread is also an excellent companion that soaks up the delicious sauce. For a lighter option, serve alongside steamed broccoli or roasted Brussels sprouts.
You might also experiment with different types of beans-black beans or kidney beans work wonderfully instead of chili beans. Ground turkey or even seasoned ground chicken can replace the beef if you prefer a lighter version.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chili mac hot directly from the pot into bowls for a casual, warming presentation. Top each serving with additional shredded cheese, diced jalapeños, and a dollop of sour cream for guests to customize their own bowls.
This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep for the week ahead. Pair it with simple garlic bread and a beverage of choice-cold beer or iced tea work beautifully with the spiced, savory flavors.
For a more elevated presentation at dinner parties, transfer the chili mac to a serving platter and garnish with fresh cilantro and crispy fried onions. Even simple plating touches make this humble comfort food feel special.
FAQ
1. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply replace the ground beef with crumbled tofu, lentils, or a plant-based meat alternative. The rest of the recipe stays exactly the same, and you’ll have an equally satisfying vegetarian chili mac.
Make sure your chili beans are vegetarian-friendly as well.
2. How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover chili mac in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if it seems too thick.
It also freezes well for up to 2 months.
3. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can substitute 1 cup of fresh tomato sauce for the canned tomato sauce. However, canned tomatoes are actually more convenient and maintain consistent flavor year-round. If using fresh, consider simmering them a bit longer to concentrate the flavor.
4. What if I don’t have chili powder?
In a pinch, you can use cumin, paprika, or even a store-bought taco seasoning blend. Each will give your chili mac a slightly different flavor profile, but all options are delicious.
Start with less and taste as you go to find your preferred level of spiciness.
5. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! Chili mac is a classic crowd-pleaser that kids absolutely love. If your family prefers milder flavors, reduce the chili powder and cumin, or skip them entirely. The cheesy pasta with beans and meat is naturally appealing to younger palates.
