Introduction
Chili mac is the kind of meal that instantly brings comfort to the table. It is warm, hearty, and full of bold flavor. The best part is that it is incredibly easy to make, even if you are not an experienced cook. This dish is a combination of two American favorites: classic chili and creamy macaroni and cheese. When you bring those two together, the result is something that feels familiar, yet exciting. It is rich, filling, and guaranteed to make everyone happy whether you are cooking for family, friends, or just yourself.
On busy nights, it is hard to find time to make something from scratch that feels home-cooked and satisfying. That is why chili mac is the perfect solution. It is a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup and more time to relax. The ingredients are simple and likely already sitting in your pantry or fridge. There is no need for complicated techniques or hard-to-find spices. Everything about this recipe is straightforward. You just cook the pasta, brown the beef, stir in the seasonings and tomatoes, and mix it all together with cheese. It is done in under 30 minutes.
This recipe is not only quick but also easy to customize. You can turn it vegetarian, make it spicier, or even add in some vegetables if you want to boost the nutrition. It works well for meal prep, school lunches, or potluck dinners. Kids love it, adults love it, and leftovers taste even better the next day. If you are looking for a dependable recipe that is both easy and incredibly delicious, then this chili mac is just what you need. So let’s dive into the ingredients, the steps, and some tips to make this dish your own.
Ingredients Needed
To make chili mac, you will need basic ingredients that are both affordable and easy to find. This recipe is built for convenience but does not sacrifice taste. Each item contributes to that bold, savory flavor and creamy texture that make chili mac such a favorite.
Here is everything you will need:
2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
1 pound lean ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces)
1 can tomato sauce (8 ounces)
1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed (15 ounces)
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
These ingredients create a perfect balance of protein, carbs, and flavor. The beef adds heartiness. The beans provide extra fiber and protein. The macaroni soaks up the rich tomato sauce. And the cheese brings everything together with that creamy, melty finish.
Ingredients Table with Calories
| Ingredient | Quantity | Estimated Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Elbow macaroni | 2 cups (uncooked) | 400 calories |
| Lean ground beef | 1 pound | 640 calories |
| Onion | 1 medium | 45 calories |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | 10 calories |
| Diced tomatoes (canned) | 14.5 ounces | 90 calories |
| Tomato sauce | 8 ounces | 70 calories |
| Kidney beans | 15 ounces | 210 calories |
| Chili powder | 1 tablespoon | 20 calories |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon | 8 calories |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon | 6 calories |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | 120 calories |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup | 400 calories |
Total estimated calories for the whole recipe: 2019
Calories per serving (6 servings): about 336
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
This recipe is perfect for beginners. It only uses one pot and comes together in just a few easy steps. You do not need any fancy equipment. Just grab a large pot or a deep skillet, and follow along.
First, boil the macaroni in salted water according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside. Do not overcook it because it will finish cooking later in the sauce.
Next, in the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for a few minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until it smells fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the pot. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until it is fully browned. This should take about 6 to 8 minutes. If there is a lot of grease, you can drain it carefully before moving on.
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the spices toast for a minute so the flavors become bold and aromatic. Then add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and kidney beans. Mix everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer.
Let the chili simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend and the sauce to thicken slightly. Stir occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot.
Now it is time to bring it all together. Add the cooked macaroni back into the pot and stir until it is fully coated in the sauce. Finally, add the shredded cheese and stir until it melts into the chili mac, making it creamy and delicious.
Serve it hot in bowls and enjoy every comforting bite.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
One of the best things about chili mac is that it is incredibly flexible. You can make it your own depending on what you have in the pantry or what flavors you prefer.
If you want a vegetarian version, skip the ground beef and use more beans or plant-based meat alternatives. Black beans or pinto beans also work well.
To make it spicier, you can add diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or your favorite hot sauce. You can even use a spicier cheese like pepper jack.
For a more nutritious twist, stir in chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. These will blend nicely with the flavors and add a fresh texture.
If you are looking for a lighter version, use ground turkey instead of beef and reduced-fat cheese. You can also swap in whole wheat pasta or gluten-free macaroni.
Chili mac is a forgiving dish. Do not be afraid to get creative with seasonings or toppings. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of green onions can take it to the next level.
Nutritional Information
This chili mac recipe is balanced and satisfying. It includes a good mix of protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates. Each serving is approximately 336 calories, which makes it a reasonable choice for lunch or dinner.
In addition to calories, each serving contains:
Around 22 grams of protein
About 35 grams of carbohydrates
Roughly 14 grams of fat
Approximately 6 grams of fiber
Close to 580 milligrams of sodium
These numbers are estimates and can vary depending on the brands you use and any changes you make to the recipe. If you are tracking your nutrition closely, you can use a recipe calculator or food tracking app for exact values.
Serving Suggestions
Chili mac is filling enough to serve on its own, but you can also pair it with a few sides to round out the meal. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast to the rich pasta. Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans are a great way to sneak in more nutrition.
You can also serve chili mac with cornbread, garlic bread, or even tortilla chips on the side. These extras are perfect for scooping or dipping.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. It reheats well in the microwave or on the stove. You can also freeze it for up to two months for a quick meal later.
Conclusion
Chili mac is a classic comfort food that checks all the boxes. It is quick, easy, affordable, and absolutely delicious. Whether you are cooking for your family, prepping meals for the week, or just making dinner for one, this recipe will never let you down. The bold flavors of chili, combined with the creamy texture of macaroni and cheese, make this dish a favorite for all ages. And with so many ways to customize it, you can keep it fresh and exciting every time.
So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a bowl of chili mac tonight. It is the kind of meal that brings people together and leaves everyone feeling satisfied.