If you have a craving for a hearty, comforting meal that’s easy to whip up any night of the week, this Simple Chili Mac Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine tender elbow macaroni swimming in a rich, smoky chili sauce with just the right amount of creaminess and cheesy goodness. Every bite brings warmth and satisfaction, making it perfect for busy evenings or cozy family dinners. The blend of spices with the beef and comforting pasta turns a humble pot of chili mac into a true crowd-pleaser that’s as delicious as it is fuss-free.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Simple Chili Mac Recipe uses a handful of straightforward ingredients that pack a punch in flavor and texture. Each one plays a vital role, whether it’s adding depth, creaminess, or that irresistible cheesy finish.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: Provides the rich protein base essential for hearty chili flavor without too much grease.
- 1/2 medium onion (chopped): Adds subtle sweetness and depth to balance the spices.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Gives an aromatic kick, enhancing the savory notes.
- 2 tablespoons chili powder: The star spice that brings warmth and bold chili flavor (adjust heat to taste).
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Introduces a smoky depth that makes the dish truly unforgettable.
- 1 (4 ounce) can diced green chilies (mild or hot): Adds a gentle heat and subtle tanginess with a lovely texture.
- 2 cups beef broth: Keeps things juicy while infusing savory richness into the pasta as it cooks.
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce: The classic tomato base that makes the sauce thick, tangy, and vibrant.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or evaporated milk: Softens the spices and adds creamy silkiness that makes this chili mac so comforting.
- 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni: The perfect pasta shape to hold onto the sauce and create a satisfying bite.
- 2 cups Mexican blend cheese or cheddar (shredded): Melts beautifully for that gooey, cheesy finish everyone loves.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential seasoning to bring all the flavors together perfectly.
How to Make Simple Chili Mac Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté Onions
Start by warming your Dutch oven or a heavy soup pot over medium-high heat. Toss in the lean ground beef and chopped onions, breaking the beef apart with your spoon. Let them cook together for about 7 to 10 minutes until the beef is nicely browned and the onions are soft and fragrant. If you see excess fat accumulating, scoop most of it out for a less greasy, cleaner flavor base.
Step 2: Add the Aromatics and Spices
Now stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, and diced green chilies. This step wakes up the flavors and infuses your pot with that unmistakable chili aroma. The combination of smoky, spicy, and savory here is what makes this Simple Chili Mac Recipe a standout.
Step 3: Pour in the Liquids
Pour in beef broth, tomato sauce, and heavy cream (or evaporated milk). Crank the heat up to high and bring everything to a gentle boil. These liquids will tenderize the pasta and become the luscious sauce that coats every bite of macaroni.
Step 4: Cook the Macaroni
Once the mixture just starts to boil, add in your uncooked elbow macaroni. Reduce the heat to maintain a rapid simmer, usually around medium, and cook uncovered for about 13 minutes. Stir every few minutes to keep the pasta from sticking to the bottom. If you find the liquid is evaporating too fast before the pasta is tender or you prefer a soupier texture, add an extra 1/2 cup of broth and adjust the heat down.
Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Seasoning
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheese. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. If the chili mac isn’t quite as thick as you like, cover the pot and let it sit for a couple of minutes. For an extra special touch, sprinkle an additional 1/2 cup of cheese on top and cover to let it melt into a gooey layer that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
How to Serve Simple Chili Mac Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your chili mac by adding a dollop of sour cream or a handful of freshly chopped cilantro on top. Diced green onions or a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips also add delightful crunch and freshness, making each bite a new experience.
Side Dishes
This dish is wonderfully filling on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, try serving it with a crisp green salad, some warm cornbread, or a side of steamed veggies. These light sides help balance the richness of the chili mac.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Simple Chili Mac Recipe in hollowed-out bell peppers or pile it onto baked potatoes for a fun twist. For casual entertaining, present it in individual ramekins topped with extra cheese and broiled for a bubbly finish that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, making this dish a fantastic option for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
Simple Chili Mac Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little room for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture and flavor retention.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring between, until piping hot and creamy once more.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey makes a leaner option and works well in this Simple Chili Mac Recipe. Just keep an eye on cooking time as it tends to brown faster and can dry out if overcooked.
What type of cheese is best for this recipe?
A Mexican blend or sharp cheddar melts wonderfully and adds fantastic flavor. Feel free to mix in a little Monterey Jack or even Pepper Jack for extra creaminess or a bit of heat.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the ground beef with textured vegetable protein or sautéed mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The spices and cheese still deliver plenty of flavor.
How spicy is the chili powder in this recipe?
The chili powder adds a warm, mild heat, but you can easily adjust the spiciness to your liking by choosing a mild or hot chili powder or by adding extra diced chilies.
Can I prepare this dish in advance and reheat it for a party?
Definitely. This Simple Chili Mac Recipe tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld. Just reheat gently and add cheese on top before serving for a fresh, melty finish.
Final Thoughts
This Simple Chili Mac Recipe is a true gem that combines ease, flavor, and comfort in one pot. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or need a satisfying dinner after a long day, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Give it a try—you might just find it becoming your go-to weeknight favorite!
Print
Simple Chili Mac Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Entree
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Simple Chili Mac is a hearty and comforting one-pot meal combining ground beef, chili spices, tender elbow macaroni, and melted cheese in a rich tomato and beef broth base. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner that delivers bold flavors and creamy texture with minimal prep.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Spices and Flavorings
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 (4 ounce) can diced green chilies (mild or hot)
- Salt & pepper to taste
Liquids
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or evaporated milk
Pasta and Cheese
- 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
- 2 cups Mexican blend cheese or cheddar, shredded
Instructions
- Cook the beef and onions: Add the ground beef and chopped onions to a Dutch oven or large soup pot over medium-high heat. Cook for 7-10 minutes, breaking up the meat with a spoon as it cooks. Remove excess fat if necessary to avoid greasiness.
- Add spices and garlic: Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, and diced green chilies. Mix well to coat the beef evenly with the spices.
- Add liquids and bring to boil: Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, and heavy cream or evaporated milk. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to just about a boil.
- Cook the pasta: Once boiling, add the uncooked elbow macaroni. Reduce heat to maintain a rapid simmer (medium heat) and cook uncovered for about 13 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the liquid has reduced. Stir every few minutes to prevent sticking. If the liquid is evaporating too quickly before the pasta is done or you prefer a soupier chili mac, add an extra 1/2 cup broth and/or reduce the heat slightly.
- Finish with cheese and seasoning: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For extra melty cheese on top, sprinkle an additional 1/2 cup of cheese and cover the pot for a few minutes to allow it to melt further. Let rest briefly if you want the liquid to thicken slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and grease in the dish.
- Adjust chili powder quantity to control heat level according to taste preferences.
- Heavy cream or evaporated milk adds richness and creaminess but can be substituted with a lower-fat option if preferred.
- Stirring frequently while pasta cooks helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking.
- Add extra broth if the chili mac seems too thick or dry as it simmers.
- Letting the pot sit covered after cooking allows flavors to meld and cheese to fully melt.
