Pork Chili Mac with Jalapeños and Cheese is a hearty, flavorful, and comforting dish that combines tender ground pork, al dente pasta, spicy jalapeños, and gooey melted cheese in a rich chili-infused sauce. This dish takes the classic chili mac to a new level with the addition of pork, which adds a savory depth, and fresh jalapeños for a gentle kick.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, game-day gatherings, or casual family meals, this recipe is filling, satisfying, and packed with bold flavors. It’s a one-pot meal that balances spice, creaminess, and the comforting warmth of pasta and cheese.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines the best of comfort food with a punch of bold flavors. The ground pork adds a rich, meaty flavor that pairs beautifully with the smoky, spicy chili base. The jalapeños provide just the right amount of heat without overwhelming the dish, and the cheese melts perfectly to create a creamy, indulgent texture.

Each bite is a combination of tender pasta, flavorful meat, and melty cheese, making it deeply satisfying and crave-worthy. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and exciting.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it transforms simple ingredients into a bold, flavorful meal that the whole family will love. The combination of chili, pork, jalapeños, and cheese delivers complex flavors in every bite. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and can be adjusted for spice levels and cheesiness according to personal preference.

Pork Chili Mac is perfect for those who want a hearty, comforting, and satisfying meal that is both easy to make and impressive on the plate.

Recipe Details

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4–6 servings
Calories: Approximately 550 kcal per serving
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American / Comfort Food

Ingredients

For the Chili Mac

• 1 pound (450 g) ground pork
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1–2 fresh jalapeños, sliced (adjust for spice preference)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 cup beef or chicken broth
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 cups elbow macaroni or your preferred pasta
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro, optional for garnish

Cooking Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, and jalapeños until softened.
2. Add ground pork and cook until browned, breaking up meat with a spoon.
3. Stir in smoked paprika, chili powder, and cumin. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth. Bring to a simmer and season with salt and pepper.
5. Cook pasta separately according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
6. Stir cooked pasta into the chili mixture. Mix in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
7. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top, cover, and let it melt for a few minutes.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and sliced jalapeños. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened and aromatic.

Step 2: Brown the Pork
Add ground pork to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the pork is fully browned and no pink remains, about 5–7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Spices
Stir in smoked paprika, chili powder, and cumin. Cook for 1–2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and release their flavors.

Step 4: Prepare the Chili Sauce
Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth to the pork mixture. Bring to a gentle simmer and season with salt and black pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta
Meanwhile, cook elbow macaroni or preferred pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Chili
Add the cooked pasta to the pork chili mixture. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until melted and creamy.

Step 7: Finish with Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar on top. Cover the skillet for a few minutes to allow the cheese to melt completely.

Step 8: Serve
Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired. Serve hot in bowls or on plates.

How to Serve

Serve this dish hot as a comforting main course. Pair it with garlic bread, a side salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For extra flavor, add a dollop of sour cream or a few sliced fresh jalapeños on top.

Recipe Tips

• Adjust the number of jalapeños based on your desired spice level.
• Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and creaminess.
• Let the chili simmer longer for a deeper, more developed flavor.
• If the dish is too thick, add a splash of broth to loosen it up.
• For a smoky flavor, try adding a few drops of liquid smoke or smoked paprika.

Variations

• Beef Chili Mac: Substitute ground pork with ground beef.
• Spicy Version: Add more jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
• Vegetable Version: Include diced bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for extra veggies.
• Cheese Variation: Mix in Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses.
• Slow Cooker Version: Cook pork and sauce in a slow cooker for 3–4 hours, then mix with cooked pasta and cheese.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
• Freezing: Freeze chili mixture without cheese for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and stir in cheese when reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain creaminess.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Medium saucepan for pasta
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cheese grater

FAQ

Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of pork?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative, though the flavor will be slightly milder.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, cook the chili mixture in advance and stir in freshly cooked pasta and cheese before serving.

Q3: Can I adjust the spiciness?
Yes, reduce or increase jalapeños or chili powder according to your taste.

Q4: Can I use pre-cooked pasta?
Yes, but ensure it is added just before serving to prevent overcooking and mushiness.

Q5: Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta and ensure the tomato sauce and seasonings are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Pork Chili Mac with Jalapeños and Cheese is a bold, comforting, and satisfying dish perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or game-day meals. Tender pork, spicy jalapeños, creamy melted cheese, and pasta combine to create a hearty and flavorful meal. Easy to prepare yet packed with layers of taste, this recipe is versatile and adaptable to suit different spice levels and dietary preferences. It’s a one-pot comfort food favorite that brings warmth, flavor, and satisfaction to any table.