If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that hits all the right notes, this Chili Mac recipe is exactly what you need. Combining the rich, savory flavors of classic chili with creamy, cheesy macaroni, Chili Mac delivers a satisfying blend of textures and tastes that everyone will love. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, easy to make, and sure to become a family favorite in no time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but each plays a vital role, from the robust ground beef and spices that build the chili’s bold flavor, to the silky cheese sauce that coats the macaroni for perfect creaminess. Together, they create the magic of Chili Mac that’s both filling and delightful.

Ground beef (1 lb, 80% lean): Provides the meaty base with rich flavor and juiciness.

Diced onion (1 small): Adds sweetness and depth when softened with the beef.
Diced bell pepper (½ cup): Brings a subtle crunch and vibrant color.

Diced garlic (3 cloves): Infuses an aromatic punch that lifts the entire dish.
Chili seasoning mix (1.25 oz packet): Offers that signature spiced warmth—homemade works beautifully too.

Tomato paste (1 tbsp): Concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the chili.
Tomato sauce (8 oz): Provides a smooth, tangy base for the chili.
Diced tomatoes, undrained (14.5 oz can): Add texture and freshness.

Chicken broth (½ cup): Keeps the chili moist with a subtle savory hint; beef broth can be substituted.
Kidney beans (15 oz can, drained): Boost the heartiness and add creaminess.
Macaroni (2 cups, uncooked): The perfect pasta shape to capture that luscious cheese sauce.

Butter (2 tbsp): The foundation for a silky cheese sauce.
Flour (2 tbsp): Helps thicken the cheese sauce for that velvety texture.
Heavy cream (½ cup): Enriches the cheese sauce so it’s luxuriously creamy.

Milk (1 cup): Balances the richness while keeping the sauce smooth.
Mustard powder (½ tsp): Adds subtle sharpness and depth.
Onion powder (¼ tsp): Enhances the savory profile.

Salt and pepper (¼ tsp each): Essential to season and elevate all flavors.
Hot sauce (½ tsp): Gives the cheese sauce a gentle kick that complements the chili.
Cheddar cheese, shredded (3 cups total): Divided between mixing in and topping for ooey-gooey goodness.

Fresh parsley: A bright, fresh garnish to finish the dish beautifully.

How to Make Chili Mac

Step 1: Make the Chili

Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat until it crumbles beautifully, about 2 minutes. Add diced onions and cook until soft, around 5 minutes. Drain any excess grease to keep the chili hearty but not greasy. Then toss in the diced bell peppers and garlic, letting them soften gently, stirring for around 4 minutes. The seasonings and tomato paste follow next; stir everything together to marry the flavors, cooking for another minute to bring out the aroma. Add tomato sauce, undrained diced tomatoes, and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil before reducing it to a simmer. Letting the chili simmer partially covered allows it to thicken and intensify in taste. Toward the end, fold in the drained kidney beans for added texture and heartiness.

Step 2: Prepare the Mac and Cheese

Get your oven preheated to 400°F to prepare for the final baking step. Start by boiling salted water for the macaroni, cooking the pasta to just al dente—this keeps it from getting mushy when combined later. Meanwhile, melt butter in a large pot until foaming, then whisk in flour to create a smooth roux that cooks for a couple of minutes. Slowly add the heavy cream and milk in splashes, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring this mixture up to a simmer, then reduce heat and season with the hot sauce, mustard powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted into a gloriously smooth sauce. Toss the drained macaroni into this cheesy mixture, stirring gently so every piece gets coated in creamy goodness.

Step 3: Combine and Bake

Fold the simmered chili into the cheesy macaroni with care, adjusting the balance depending on your preference for more chili or cheese. Once combined, spread the mixture into an oven-safe dish if needed, and generously sprinkle with the remaining cheddar cheese on top. Bake uncovered for about 5 minutes, just until the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden layer. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and brightness before serving warm and satisfying Chili Mac!

How to Serve Chili Mac

Garnishes

Sprinkling fresh parsley leaves over the finished dish adds a lovely herbaceous note and vibrant green color that makes the Chili Mac even more inviting. You can also try topping it with sliced jalapeños or a dollop of sour cream for an extra layer of creaminess and mild tang.

Side Dishes

Chili Mac is a complete meal on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or some warm garlic bread to soak up every last bit of cheesy chili goodness. For a veggie boost, steamed broccoli or roasted corn complements the flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress guests or add some flair, serve Chili Mac in individual ramekins topped with melted cheese and fresh herbs. For a fun twist, use it as a filling for stuffed bell peppers or bake it in a large casserole dish topped with crunchy breadcrumbs for added texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chili Mac keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Let it cool completely before sealing to preserve flavor and texture. When reheating, stir occasionally to maintain the creamy consistency.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully, making it perfect for batch cooking. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge prior to reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat Chili Mac gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and preserve creaminess. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works as a leaner alternative. Just keep in mind it has a milder flavor, so you might want to adjust seasoning accordingly to keep that rich Chili Mac taste.

What can I substitute for kidney beans?

If you aren’t a fan of kidney beans, black beans or pinto beans make great substitutes. They offer a similar texture and earthy flavor that complements the chili.

Is it okay to use different pasta shapes?

Yes, you can swap elbow macaroni for small shells, ditalini, or even mini penne. Just be mindful of cooking times to keep the pasta al dente.

How spicy is this Chili Mac?

This recipe has a mild, approachable spice level thanks to the chili seasoning and a touch of hot sauce. You can easily increase the heat by adding more hot sauce or some diced jalapeños.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! Replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or extra beans and veggies, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken. The rich cheese sauce and spices will keep it delicious.

Final Thoughts

This Chili Mac is one of those dishes that feels like a cozy kitchen hug, filling your home with amazing aromas while satisfying big family appetites. It’s straightforward to prepare, endlessly comforting, and guaranteed to become a go-to recipe for chilly evenings or anytime you crave something special yet simple. Give it a try soon—you might just find a new favorite!

Chili Mac Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 27 reviews

Author: lina
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 6 servings 1x

Diet: Low Salt

Print Recipe

Description

Chili Mac is a comforting one-pot dish combining savory chili made with ground beef, beans, and tomatoes with creamy, cheesy macaroni. This hearty casserole baked with a cheesy topping makes for a perfect family meal that’s both filling and flavorful, blending the richness of chili with smooth mac and cheese.

Instructions

Make the Chili: In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook and crumble ground beef for 2 minutes. Add diced onions and cook 5 minutes until beef is browned and onions softened. Drain excess grease. Add diced bell peppers and garlic, cooking 4 minutes until peppers soften. Stir in chili seasoning and tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in tomato sauce, undrained diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Stir and bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer, cover partially, and let simmer. Add drained kidney beans in the last 10 minutes of cooking to thicken and concentrate flavors.
Prepare Macaroni: Preheat oven to 400°F. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook macaroni until just al dente according to package instructions, then drain.

Make Cheese Sauce: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat until foamy. Whisk in flour and cook 2 minutes. Gradually add heavy cream and milk in splashes, whisking continuously. Bring mixture to a boil then simmer. Stir in hot sauce, mustard powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to low.
Add Cheese: Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce, stirring until smooth and fully combined.
Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce: Add drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined. You may choose to use slightly less pasta for extra cheesiness.

Combine Chili and Mac & Cheese: Add chili to the mac and cheese mixture and gently fold together using a silicone spatula. Adjust the ratio of chili to mac & cheese to your preference.
Bake: Transfer combined chili mac mixture to an oven-safe dish if needed. Top with 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 5 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy warm and hearty!

Notes

You can make your own chili seasoning mix using chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, salt, and pepper.
For a spicier dish, increase the hot sauce or add additional chili flakes.
Use beef broth instead of chicken broth for a richer flavor if desired.

This dish can be frozen after baking for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
If you prefer a milder cheese sauce, reduce the hot sauce or omit it altogether.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Simmering, Baking, Boiling, Sautéing

Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 450

Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 22g

Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0.5g

Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 6g
Protein: 25g

Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Chili Mac, Chili Macaroni, Comfort Food, Ground Beef Recipe, Mac and Cheese with Chili