Chili Mac is a cozy dish that combines hearty chili with tender macaroni noodles. It’s a warm bowl of comfort that’s perfect for chilly days!
Who doesn’t love a one-pot meal? It’s super easy to make and clean up afterwards. I like to top mine with a sprinkle of cheese and some crunchy crackers. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the heart of your Chili Mac. You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or plant-based meat alternatives.
Onion and Garlic: These add essential flavor to the dish. If you’re short on time, onion powder and garlic powder can work as quick substitutes. Fresh is always best, but don’t stress if you don’t have it!
Kidney Beans: They add protein and texture. Black beans or pinto beans can be swapped in if you prefer. Canned chickpeas would also work in a pinch.
Diced Tomatoes: They give the dish moisture and acidity. Feel free to use fresh tomatoes if you have some ripe ones on hand, or switch to crushed tomatoes if that’s what you have.
Cheddar Cheese: This is what makes it cheesy and delicious! You can replace it with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a vegan cheese option for a dairy-free version.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting the pasta just right is key for your Chili Mac. You want it tender but not mushy. Here’s how to ensure perfect pasta:
- Add the uncooked elbow macaroni right after the simmering mixture is boiling.
- Cover and cook at a low simmer for about 10-12 minutes. Stir every few minutes to prevent sticking.
- Test for doneness a minute or two earlier than the recommended time; it’ll keep cooking off the heat.
Don’t forget, the pasta will absorb some moisture, so a little extra broth won’t hurt if you prefer a creamier consistency!
Chili Mac Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth (or water)
- 1 cup elbow macaroni pasta
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chili Mac takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, giving you a total of about 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet or pot, heat it over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
Once the beef is browned, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté these together until the onion is soft and translucent, which should take about 3-5 minutes. The aroma will start to be amazing!
3. Mix in the Spices:
Now, stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Let them cook for about 1 minute until you can smell the spices. This will add a wonderful flavor to your Chili Mac!
4. Add the Rest of the Ingredients:
Next, toss in the diced tomatoes (including all the juices), kidney beans, and beef broth. Stir everything together so it’s well mixed.
5. Cook the Pasta:
Bring the mixture to a simmer. Once it’s nice and bubbly, add in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Cover the pot and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the pasta to be tender and infused with all the delicious flavors.
6. Finish with Cheese:
After your pasta is cooked, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and creamy. This is where the magic happens!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Chili Mac is ready! Serve it hot, topped with extra shredded cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy this comforting, cheesy, and flavorful dish!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian version. Just adjust the cooking time if you choose a leaner meat.
What If I Don’t Have All the Spices?
No worries! If you’re missing some spices, you can still make a delicious Chili Mac. Just focus on the chili powder and cumin, as they are key for flavor. Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your taste preferences!
Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free elbow macaroni instead of regular pasta. The rest of the ingredients should be naturally gluten-free, but always check the labels to be sure!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick.
