Chili Mac is a warm and cheesy dish that combines pasta, chili, and melted cheese into one tasty meal. It’s like comfort food in a bowl!
This dish is perfect for a cozy night in. I love that it’s quick to make—just boil, mix, and bake. Your taste buds will thank you for this hearty meal! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: Elbow macaroni is classic for this dish, but other pasta shapes work too! Try cavatappi or shells for a fun twist.
Ground Beef: You can easily swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a lighter option. Vegetarian ground meat is great if you want to skip the meat altogether!
Tomato Sauce: Canned tomato sauce is convenient, but crushed tomatoes or tomato paste can work too. If you like some sweetness, add a bit of ketchup or brown sugar.
Spices: Chili powder gives this dish a nice kick! If you prefer mild food, reduce the amount or substitute it with taco seasoning.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is a favorite because it melts well. You could replace it with Monterey Jack for a creamier texture or even a dairy-free cheese if needed.
How Do I Make Sure the Ground Beef is Cooked Properly?
Cooking ground beef well is key for a good texture. Make sure to break it into smaller pieces while cooking for even browning.
- Heat the skillet to medium-high and cook until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Always drain excess fat for a healthier meal. No one likes greasy chili mac!
Chili Mac Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 cup canned tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty meal can be prepared in about 30 minutes, including 10 minutes for prepping and 20 minutes for cooking. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Macaroni:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (firm but cooked). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet and cook for about 3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant.
3. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. Make sure to drain any excess fat to keep your dish from being greasy.
4. Add the Spices:
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook everything together for about 1 minute to let the spices release their flavors.
5. Combine with Tomato Sauce:
Pour in the canned tomato sauce and beef broth, and stir everything well. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes so it can thicken slightly.
6. Mix in the Macaroni:
Now, add the cooked macaroni to the skillet. Mix everything well so the macaroni is coated with the delicious chili mixture.
7. Melt the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the mixture. Stir it in until the cheese is melted and everything is gooey and combined.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Serve your warm Chili Mac hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your delicious, comforting meal!
Dig in and savor the cheesy goodness of Chili Mac! 😊
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute elbow macaroni with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions, as gluten-free pasta may have different cooking times.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative or use canned beans like black beans or kidney beans. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for more nutrition and flavor!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any Chili Mac leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For best results, reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.
Can I Add Extra Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to sneak in some chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach when sautéing the onions. This will not only add flavor but also boost the nutritional value of your Chili Mac!