There is something incredibly comforting and satisfying about a warm bowl of chili mixed with cheesy pasta, and that’s exactly what this Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe delivers in every delicious bite. Combining the hearty flavors of spiced ground beef, tender beans, and luscious melted cheddar with tender elbow macaroni creates a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd, family dinners, or simply when you crave something that’s both filling and packed with bold, vibrant flavors. Trust me, once you try this Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to meals that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating this Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe is surprisingly simple, thanks to a handful of essential ingredients. Each component plays a key role whether it’s building up the warmth of the chili spices, adding creamy cheesiness, or introducing texture and color to this crowd-pleasing dish.
- Olive oil: Helps brown the beef and soften the onions, adding a subtle richness without overpowering the flavors.
- Extra lean ground beef: The protein-packed base that brings hearty depth without excessive fat.
- Onion: Adds sweetness and a mild crunch when sautéed, balancing the heat of the spices.
- Garlic: Provides aromatic undertones that enhance the savoriness of the chili.
- Cayenne pepper: Delivers a gentle spicy kick that brightens the chili flavors.
- Ground cumin: Offers a warm, earthy note, grounding the chili’s overall character.
- Chili powder: The hallmark flavor that defines the chili’s boldness and richness.
- Black pepper and salt: Season perfectly to enhance all the other flavors.
- Black beans and kidney beans: Add heartiness and a lovely texture contrast, plus plant-based protein.
- Diced tomatoes: Bring juiciness and a touch of acidity to brighten the dish.
- Chicken broth: The liquid that simmers everything, helping to soften the pasta and blend all flavors.
- Elbow macaroni: Classic comfort pasta that holds onto the sauce beautifully.
- Cheddar cheese: Provides gooey, rich cheesiness—part stirred in and part melted on top for the best cheesy experience.
- Fresh parsley: A burst of color and freshness to finish your dish.
How to Make Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Brown Beef and Sauté Vegetables
Start by heating your olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. If you’re using a fattier beef, don’t forget to drain any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too oily. Once the beef is browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking them until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This step builds the foundation for the rich and hearty flavors that make this Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe so irresistible.
Step 2: Add Spices and Beans
Next, stir in the spices: cayenne pepper, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. These spices bring warmth and a burst of flavor that’s essential to the chili component of the dish. After the spices are well combined and fragrant, add the black beans, kidney beans, and diced tomatoes with their juices. This combination ensures every spoonful has a great mix of textures and flavors, blending smoky, savory, and slightly tangy notes.
Step 3: Simmer with Pasta
Pour in the chicken broth and then stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Raise the heat to bring the pot to a boil, then reduce it to a simmer and cover. Let the mixture cook for 9 to 12 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender and has soaked up the zesty chili flavors. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the pot. This step transforms the chili into a hearty, pasta-filled comfort meal that’s satisfying and well-balanced.
Step 4: Add Cheese
Once the pasta’s cooked, stir in one cup of shredded cheddar cheese off the heat until it melts smoothly into the chili, creating a creamy, cheesy sauce. Then sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar on top and cover the pot again for about one minute. This method melts the cheese perfectly, creating a luscious cheesy crust without overpowering the other flavors. This cheese layer is the final touch that truly elevates this Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe to comfort food perfection.
Step 5: Serve
Garnish your hearty chili mac with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve it hot and enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness with every bite. This dish is sure to please a crowd or satisfy even the biggest comfort food cravings on a cozy night in.
How to Serve Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like freshly chopped parsley or a dollop of sour cream brings a bright, fresh contrast to the rich and cheesy chili base. You can also sprinkle some extra shredded cheddar, sliced jalapeños for heat, or crushed tortilla chips for added crunch. These small touches take the presentation and flavor to the next level, making each serving feel special.
Side Dishes
This dish is quite hearty on its own, but pairing it with simple, fresh sides balances the meal. A crisp green salad with vinaigrette, steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans, or even corn on the cob add freshness and textural contrast. For a cozy night, warm cornbread or garlic bread are perfect companions to soak up every last bit of that savory chili cheese sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
To mix things up, you can serve this Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe in individual ramekins topped with extra cheese and baked until golden and bubbly, adding a crispy top layer. Another fun way is layering the chili mac in a casserole dish and topping it with crushed tortilla chips or even mac and cheese-crust for a layered texture experience. These presentations make the dish feel festive and perfect for potlucks or special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Since this dish tends to thicken as it cools, you might want to add a splash of broth or milk when reheating to restore its creamy texture. The flavors also deepen overnight, making leftovers just as delightful as the fresh batch.
Freezing
This Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep. Portion the dish into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. When frozen, the texture might change slightly, especially the pasta, but it will still retain the bold, comforting flavors that make it so special.
Reheating
For reheating, thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge if possible. Warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of broth or milk to help bring back the creamy consistency. You can also heat individual servings in the microwave, but be sure to stir halfway through to ensure even warmth. Don’t forget a little extra shredded cheese on top at the end for a melty finish!
FAQs
Can I make this Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make it vegetarian, simply omit the ground beef and add extra beans or vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. You can also use a plant-based meat substitute to keep the hearty protein element intact without sacrificing flavor.
What type of cheese works best in this recipe?
Sharp cheddar cheese is ideal because it melts well and delivers that classic tangy, creamy flavor that complements the chili spices. However, you can experiment with a blend including Monterey Jack, Colby, or even Pepper Jack for added zest.
Can I use different pasta shapes instead of elbow macaroni?
Yes! While elbow macaroni is traditional and holds the sauce wonderfully, feel free to use other small pasta shapes like shells, cavatappi, or rotini. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the pasta cooks through properly.
Is this recipe spicy? Can I adjust the heat level?
The Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe has a mild to moderate heat due to the cayenne pepper and chili powder, but you can easily adjust it. Reduce or omit the cayenne for less heat or add extra chili powder or hot sauce for a spicier kick. It’s all about tailoring it to your taste buds.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance for a party?
Yes, you can prepare the chili base ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, cook the pasta fresh or mix pre-cooked pasta into the chili, add cheese, and warm through. This makes entertaining easier and ensures your Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe tastes freshly made.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that delivers warmth, bold flavor, and cheesy comfort all in one pot, this Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe is an absolute winner. It’s easy enough for a weeknight meal yet hearty enough to satisfy a crowd, making it a real kitchen hero. Gather your ingredients, follow along, and get ready to indulge in a bowl of pure comfort that will make you smile with every bite.
Print
Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Chili Mac and Cheese recipe is a hearty, comforting one-pot meal that combines the flavors of chili with creamy macaroni and cheese. Packed with lean ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and spices, then finished with shredded cheddar cheese, it’s perfect for a family dinner or meal prep. Ready in just 30 minutes and serving 8, this dish is a delicious and easy way to bring warmth and flavor to your table.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound extra lean ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (26 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or beef broth)
- 10 ounces elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Brown Beef and Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the extra lean ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. If using higher fat ground beef, drain any excess grease. Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they are softened and fragrant.
- Add Spices and Beans: Stir in cayenne pepper, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and ground black pepper to the beef mixture. Then add the drained and rinsed black beans, kidney beans, and the entire can of diced tomatoes with their juices. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
- Simmer with Pasta: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth (or beef broth) and add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for 9 to 12 minutes, or until the macaroni is cooked through. Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom.
- Add Cheese: Once the pasta is tender and the liquid has slightly thickened, stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese until it is fully melted and incorporated into the dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top, cover the pot, and let it sit for about 1 minute to allow the cheese on top to melt completely.
- Serve: Garnish the chili mac and cheese with the freshly chopped parsley and serve hot, straight from the pot for a warming and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Use extra lean ground beef to reduce fat content and avoid excessive grease during cooking.
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth to make it more vegetarian-friendly, though the recipe includes beef.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper amount to control the spiciness according to your preference.
- If you want a creamier cheese texture, try adding a splash of milk or cream before stirring in the cheese.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
