If you are looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that brings together the best of two beloved comfort foods, you have to try this Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe. It’s a hearty, flavorful masterpiece where tender macaroni pasta meets a spicy, savory chili infused with rich cheeses. Each bite bursts with warmth and that perfect cheesy pull that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy cravings with its bold flavors and creamy texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe relies on simple yet essential ingredients that work harmoniously to deliver incredible flavor and texture. Every element, from the spices to the cheese, plays a key role in making this dish a delicious success.
- Olive oil: The perfect start for sautéing your beef and aromatics, adding subtle richness.
- Lean ground beef: Provides a hearty, meaty base that absorbs all the delicious spices.
- Garlic and onion: These aromatics add depth and a savory backbone to the chili.
- Chili powder, oregano, cumin, crushed red pepper: A spice blend that delivers the signature warmth and complexity.
- Salt and black pepper: Essentials that balance and enhance all the flavors.
- Beef broth: Creates a rich cooking liquid for the pasta and infuses the chili with savory goodness.
- Petite cut diced tomatoes: Bring a slight acidity and sweetness that brightens the dish.
- Black beans: Add texture, protein, and a smoky undertone.
- Uncooked macaroni pasta: The classic cheesy pasta that absorbs all the tasty sauce.
- Cheddar and mozzarella cheese, divided: A blend of sharpness and gooey meltiness that makes this mac and cheese unforgettable.
- Fresh parsley (optional): Adds a fresh, vibrant note and a lovely pop of color for garnish.
How to Make Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Base
Start by heating the olive oil in a generous pot over medium-high heat. This will be the flavor foundation, so don’t rush this step. Once the oil is shimmering, add the ground beef and cook it until it’s browned through, breaking it apart to get that perfect crumbly texture. Drain off any excess fat to keep the dish from getting greasy before moving on to the next layer of flavor.
Step 2: Build the Aromatics
Now toss in the minced garlic and diced onion to the pot. The smell of these cooking gently is just heavenly. Allow the onions to soften for about two minutes—they should be translucent and fragrant to give the chili its comforting depth.
Step 3: Layer the Spices
This is where the magic happens — sprinkle in the chili powder, dried oregano, cumin, crushed red pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well so the spices coat the beef and onions evenly, releasing their warm, inviting aromas that make your kitchen instantly cozy.
Step 4: Add Liquids and Beans
Pour in the beef broth, then add the canned diced tomatoes and the rinsed black beans. These ingredients bring moisture, a touch of tang, and extra protein, turning this into a hearty one-pot meal. Give everything a good stir and crank the heat up to bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
Once boiling, add the uncooked macaroni pasta into the pot. Reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and let it simmer for about 12 minutes. This gentle simmer allows the pasta to cook perfectly, soaking in all the chili-flavored broth while becoming tender but not mushy.
Step 6: Stir in the Cheese
Remove the pot from heat and immediately stir in three-quarters of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. The residual heat will start melting the cheese into the creamy sauce, making your Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe truly decadent and cheesy beyond belief.
Step 7: Melt the Remaining Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, cover the pot again, and let it sit for about two minutes. This step ensures that gorgeous, gooey cheese layer on top melts perfectly, giving you that mouthwatering cheesy crust that is just irresistible.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
To finish, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley for a bright, fresh note and a splash of color. Now your Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe is ready to be devoured!
How to Serve Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley lifts the dish visually and adds a subtle freshness that complements the rich, cheesy base beautifully. You can even add a dollop of sour cream or a few slices of jalapeño if you want to bring extra creaminess or heat.
Side Dishes
This Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to add balance and brightness to your plate. Crunchy garlic bread on the side is an absolute game-changer, perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving this chili mac in individual ramekins topped with a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips or crispy fried onions. It makes for a festive presentation that’s perfect for casual dinner parties or game day gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to three days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors actually deepen with time, making leftovers just as delicious as the first serving.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of this dish for up to two months. Just let it cool completely, pack into freezer-safe containers, and label with the date. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a convenient, satisfying meal anytime.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the leftovers gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. You might want to add a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce as the pasta can absorb liquid while stored.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well in this Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe and gives it a lighter twist, although the flavor will be slightly milder. Just brown it the same way as beef.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, simply swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or add extra beans and vegetables for volume and protein. Use vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
What type of pasta is best for this recipe?
Macaroni is traditional and works perfectly because its hollow shape holds the sauce well. However, small pasta shapes like shells or elbow pasta also work beautifully.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Definitely! If you prefer it milder, reduce or omit the crushed red pepper. For more heat, add extra chili powder or a dash of hot sauce when cooking.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?
During cooking, keep the mixture stirred a few times and make sure there is enough liquid in the pot to allow the pasta to move freely and cook evenly without clumping.
Final Thoughts
This Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that never gets old. It’s simple to make but packs an impressive punch of comforting flavors and cheesy goodness that everyone will love. I highly encourage you to give this recipe a try—it’s perfect for busy nights, family dinners, or whenever you need a little extra deliciousness in your life.
