There is something incredibly comforting and satisfying about a warm, cheesy bowl of chili combined with pasta, and this Simple Chili Mac Recipe brings that classic comfort food right to your kitchen with ease. Made with hearty ground beef, flavorful spices, tender elbow macaroni, and a luscious cheesy finish, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends when you crave a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s a fantastic one-pot wonder that balances robust chili flavors with creamy indulgence to please everyone at your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Simple Chili Mac Recipe lies in its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that work together to create layers of flavor and texture. Each component is carefully chosen to add richness, spice, and that melt-in-your-mouth quality that makes this dish unforgettable.
- Lean ground beef: Provides the hearty, savory base that makes this chili mac filling and satisfying.
- Onion: Adds a sweet earthiness and depth when sautéed with the beef.
- Garlic: Brings aromatic warmth and a slight kick to the mix.
- Chili powder: The essential spice that delivers classic chili flavor and a pleasant heat.
- Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky nuance that elevates the overall taste.
- Diced green chilies: Introduce a mild heat and a pop of color to brighten the dish.
- Beef broth: Creates a rich cooking liquid that infuses the macaroni with flavor as it cooks.
- Tomato sauce: Gives the chili its characteristic tangy, saucy base.
- Heavy cream or evaporated milk: Adds a creamy texture that gently tames the spices and enriches the sauce.
- Uncooked elbow macaroni: The comforting pasta that soaks up all the delicious chili flavors.
- Mexican blend cheese or cheddar: Melts into gooey perfection, creating that irresistible cheesy finish.
- Salt & pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all the flavors.
How to Make Simple Chili Mac Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Beef and Onions
Start by heating a Dutch oven or a heavy soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef and chopped onions, breaking the meat up with your spoon as it browns. Cook for about 7 to 10 minutes until the beef is browned and the onions are softened. If there is excess fat rendered during cooking, skim most of it out to keep the dish rich but not greasy. This step builds the foundation of your chili mac with savory flavor and a tender base.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices
Next, stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, and diced green chilies. These aromatics and spices unlock a vibrant depth of flavor that makes the chili so crave-worthy. The green chilies also add a subtle heat and burst of color, creating an inviting look and taste.
Step 3: Stir in Liquids and Heat
Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, and heavy cream or evaporated milk. Turn the heat up to high and bring the mixture just to a boil. This combination of liquids adds complex richness and a luscious, creamy tang to the dish, perfectly balancing the chili spices.
Step 4: Cook the Macaroni
As soon as the mixture boils, add the uncooked elbow macaroni. Lower the heat to maintain a rapid simmer—usually medium heat works great—and cook uncovered for about 13 minutes. Stir every couple of minutes to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom. The macaroni absorbs the flavorful broth while softening to the perfect tender bite. If the liquid reduces too quickly before the pasta is fully cooked, add half a cup more broth or lower the heat slightly to keep it cozy.
Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Seasoning
Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and silky. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. For an extra cheesy flourish, sprinkle a bit more cheese on top and cover the pot until it melts into a gooey layer. Let the Simple Chili Mac Recipe sit for a few minutes if you want it thicker as the pasta absorbs the sauce beautifully during this rest.
How to Serve Simple Chili Mac Recipe
Garnishes
Bring this dish to life with fresh garnishes that add a bit of brightness and texture contrast. Chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream add creaminess and a cooling effect against the warming chili spices. A sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips or jalapeño slices can give a welcomed crunch and a little extra kick.
Side Dishes
Simple Chili Mac pairs wonderfully with easy side dishes. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness, while warm cornbread or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last bit of cheesy chili goodness. For a lighter touch, steamed veggies or roasted corn add vibrant color and balance.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the chili mac in individual oven-safe bowls topped with extra cheese, then broil until golden and bubbly for a comforting casserole vibe. You can also turn leftovers into stuffed peppers or bake with a crispy breadcrumb topping for a whole new spin. Presenting this dish with a colorful garnish platter invites friends and family to customize their bowls, making it fun and interactive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Simple Chili Mac Recipe tastes fantastic as leftovers and stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days. Keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent it from drying out. When reheated, the flavors deepen and the creamy texture becomes even more comforting.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the chili mac in portioned airtight containers or freezer bags. It’s best to slightly undercook the pasta if you plan on freezing, as it can soften further upon reheating. Frozen chili mac will keep well for up to two months, making it an excellent freezer-friendly meal for busy days.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or milk to revive the creamy consistency if it’s thickened too much from refrigeration or freezing. This keeps your Simple Chili Mac Recipe tasting as fresh and comforting as when it was first made.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat substitute or cooked lentils, and use vegetable broth. The flavors will still be rich and satisfying with the cheese and spices.
What type of chili powder works best?
Choose a chili powder that suits your heat preferences, whether mild, medium, or hot. A good quality chili powder with a mix of smoky and earthy tones will elevate the dish beautifully.
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Elbow macaroni is traditional and works well, but feel free to try small shells, rotini, or even small penne if that’s what you have on hand—the key is to use a pasta that cooks quickly and holds sauce well.
Is it okay to use evaporated milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes! Evaporated milk is a fantastic lower-fat alternative to heavy cream and still gives the chili mac its wonderful creamy texture without being too rich.
How spicy is this Simple Chili Mac Recipe?
The spice level is moderate and can be easily adjusted by varying the amount of chili powder and choosing mild or hot diced green chilies. You can always add more heat with cayenne pepper or jalapeños if you love it fiery!
Final Thoughts
If you want a comforting, delicious, and fuss-free meal that feels like a warm embrace, this Simple Chili Mac Recipe is calling your name. With its rich flavors, creamy texture, and cheesy finish, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Don’t hesitate to give it a try and enjoy every hearty, satisfying bite!
Print
Simple Chili Mac Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Simple Chili Mac is a hearty and comforting one-pot meal combining lean ground beef, flavorful spices, tender elbow macaroni, and a cheesy finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this chili-infused pasta dish balances smoky, spicy, and creamy elements in every bite.
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
Other
- 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
- 2 cups Mexican blend cheese or cheddar, shredded
Instructions
- Cook the Beef and Onions: In a Dutch oven or large soup pot, heat over medium-high. Add the lean ground beef and chopped onions, cooking for 7-10 minutes. Break up the meat with a spoon as it cooks, and drain excess fat if there’s a lot to prevent greasiness.
- Add Spices and Chilies: Stir in minced garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, and the canned diced green chilies, mixing well to combine the flavors.
- Add Liquids and Bring to Boil: Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, and heavy cream or evaporated milk. Increase heat to high and bring the mixture to just a boil.
- Cook the Macaroni: Once boiling, add the uncooked elbow macaroni. Reduce heat to maintain a rapid simmer (around medium heat). Cook uncovered for about 13 minutes, stirring every couple of minutes to prevent sticking. Monitor the liquid level; add 1/2 cup more broth or reduce heat if it evaporates too quickly or if you want a soupier consistency.
- Add Cheese and Season: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Taste and season with salt and pepper as desired. Optionally, add an extra 1/2 cup of cheese on top, cover the pot to let it melt for a luscious cheesy layer before serving.
Notes
- Chili powder heat varies; adjust the quantity or type for your preferred spiciness.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with evaporated milk.
- Be sure to stir frequently when cooking macaroni to prevent sticking and burning.
- If you want more broth or a soupier chili mac, add extra beef broth during cooking.
- Use a Dutch oven or heavy soup pot to ensure even cooking and heat retention.
