The Ultimate Homemade Chili Mac Recipe
Chili macaroni, also known as chili mac, has been a beloved American comfort food since the early 20th century. This one-pot wonder combines the cheesy satisfaction of mac and cheese with the hearty warmth of traditional chili. Unlike basic chili recipes, chili mac incorporates pasta directly into the dish, creating a complete meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Why This Chili Mac Recipe Works
What sets this easy chili mac recipe apart from others is the cooking technique. Rather than boiling the pasta separately, we cook the macaroni directly in the chili mixture. This allows the pasta to absorb the rich flavors while maintaining the perfect al dente texture. The result is a cohesive dish where every bite delivers balanced chili and pasta flavors.
Complete Ingredient List
For the best chili mac recipe, you'll need these ingredients (with possible substitutions):
| Ingredient | Amount | Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Elbow macaroni | 2 cups (8 oz) | Any small pasta shape |
| Ground beef | 1 lb | Ground turkey, plant-based crumbles |
| Yellow onion, diced | 1 medium | Shallot or red onion |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 3 | 1 tsp garlic powder |
| Chili powder | 2 tbsp | 1 tbsp chipotle powder for heat |
| Canned diced tomatoes | 1 (28 oz) can | Crushed tomatoes |
| Beef broth | 2 cups | Vegetable broth for vegetarian version |
| Kidney beans, drained | 1 (15 oz) can | Pinto beans or black beans |
| Cheddar cheese, shredded | 1 cup | Monterey Jack or pepper jack |
Essential Equipment
- Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Box grater (if using block cheese)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Brown the meat: In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until beef is browned and onions are translucent (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat.
- Add aromatics: Stir in minced garlic and chili powder, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Build the base: Add diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, and uncooked macaroni. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Cook the pasta: Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender but still firm.
- Add beans and cheese: Stir in kidney beans and 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Cook for 2-3 more minutes until cheese melts and mixture thickens slightly.
- Rest and serve: Remove from heat, cover, and let stand for 5 minutes. The residual heat will help the flavors meld and the sauce thicken to the perfect consistency.
Pro Tips for Perfect Chili Mac
- Don't skip the bloom: Cooking the chili powder with the meat and onions for a minute before adding liquids enhances the flavor significantly.
- Resist over-stirring: Too much stirring can break the pasta. Stir just enough to prevent sticking.
- Adjust consistency: If your chili mac cheese recipe becomes too thick, add 1/4 cup broth or water at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- Season at the end: Salt levels can change as the pasta absorbs liquid, so season with salt and pepper after the pasta is cooked.
Serving Suggestions
This classic chili mac recipe stands well on its own as a complete meal, but these accompaniments elevate it:
- Top with remaining 1/4 cup cheese, sliced green onions, and a dollop of sour cream
- Pair with a simple green salad with vinaigrette dressing
- For a heartier meal, serve with cornbread or garlic bread
- Add pickled jalapeños for extra heat lovers
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The pasta will continue absorbing liquid, so add a splash of broth or water when reheating:
- Stovetop: Reheat gently over medium-low heat with 2-3 tablespoons of liquid, stirring frequently
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, adding liquid as needed
Delicious Recipe Variations
Make this quick chili mac dinner work for any dietary need or preference:
Vegetarian Chili Mac
Substitute ground beef with 2 cups cooked lentils or plant-based crumbles. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Add 1 diced bell pepper with the onions for extra texture.
Cheesy Baked Version
After preparing the basic recipe, transfer to a baking dish, top with extra cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Spicy Chipotle Variation
Add 1-2 minced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce along with 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for a smoky, spicy kick that complements the chili mac with ground beef.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make chili mac without beans?
Yes, traditional chili mac often includes beans, but you can easily omit them. For a similar texture, add an extra 1/2 cup of diced vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. The dish will still be delicious as a chili mac cheese recipe without beans.
How do I prevent my chili mac from becoming mushy?
To avoid mushy pasta in your easy chili mac recipe, don't overcook the macaroni. Cook it just until al dente (tender but still firm) since it will continue cooking from residual heat. Also, avoid excessive stirring while simmering, which can break the pasta.
Can I freeze chili mac for later?
Yes, chili mac freezes well for up to 3 months. Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers, leaving 1-inch headspace for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating with a little extra broth to restore moisture.
What's the difference between chili mac and regular chili?
The key difference is that chili mac incorporates pasta directly into the chili mixture, creating a complete meal in one dish. Regular chili typically contains meat, beans, and vegetables in a tomato-based sauce without pasta. This classic chili mac recipe combines both elements for a heartier, more substantial dish.
Can I use different pasta shapes for chili mac?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use any small pasta shape. Shells work well for trapping sauce, rotini holds up nicely, and even small penne can work. Just adjust cooking time as needed since different shapes cook at slightly different rates in your quick chili mac dinner.
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