The Best Homemade Chili Mac Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
Our Homemade Chili Mac recipe is a delicious twist on two comfort food classics, combining hearty chili with cheesy macaroni for a meal that’s impossible to resist. You’ll love how easy it is to make, even on busy weeknights, and how it brings the whole family together.
- Fully customizable: Add your favorite toppings like sour cream, green onions, or extra cheese for a personal touch.
- One-pot wonder: Minimal cleanup means you can spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.
- Perfect for leftovers: It tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for meal prep or lunches.
Recipe
This Homemade Chili Mac recipe combines the heartiness of chili with the comforting pasta in one delicious dish. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
- In a large skillet or pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Meanwhile, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the chili mixture and stir to combine.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and cover the pot until the cheese melts.
- Serve warm.
Notes:
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Equipment:
- Large skillet or pot
- Wooden spoon
- Colander
Time:
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: 4-6 servings
Nutrition
This homemade chili mac is packed with protein and flavor while being easy to make. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Calories | Fat | Carbs | Protein | Fiber | Sugar | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 420 | 12g | 52g | 28g | 8g | 6g | 980mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing this hearty chili mac with simple side dishes like a crisp green salad or buttery garlic bread to balance the flavors perfectly. For drinks, I’d recommend a revitalizing iced tea or a cold beer if you’re in the mood for something extra cozy. It’s all about creating a meal that feels complete and satisfying without much fuss.
Side Dishes
When I’m serving up a hearty bowl of chili mac, I love pairing it with sides that balance its rich, savory flavors. A cool, creamy potato salad cuts through the spice, while buttery garlic bread soaks up every last bit of sauce. Sometimes I’ll add a crisp green salad for freshness, or even some tangy coleslaw for crunch. These sides keep the meal from feeling too heavy, and they’re easy to whip up while the chili mac simmers. Trust me, the combo’s a crowd-pleaser—my family always goes back for seconds when these dishes are on the table!
Beverage Pairings
Since chili mac packs bold flavors, you’ll want a drink that complements without overwhelming it. I love pairing it with icy cold beer or a crisp lemonade—they balance the richness perfectly. For a cozy twist, try coffee drinks like a smooth latte or iced coffee; their warmth or chill contrasts nicely with the spice. Herbal or minty tea blends are another great option, soothing your palate after each bite. If you’re feeling fancy, a light red wine works too. Honestly, it’s all about what makes you happy—just avoid anything too sweet or heavy. Cheers to the perfect match!
