Introduction

Chili Mac with Ground Beef and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food — a hearty, cheesy, and flavorful one-pot meal that combines savory chili, tender ground beef, and perfectly cooked pasta. The dish is rich and satisfying, perfect for cozy weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or anytime you crave a warm, filling meal.

The beauty of chili mac is its versatility — it’s a mash-up of classic chili and creamy macaroni and cheese, resulting in a dish that’s indulgent yet easy to make. With layers of melted cheese, tender beef, and hearty pasta, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s comfort in a bowl. The combination of seasoned ground beef, tomato-rich chili, and gooey melted cheese is irresistible. Each bite is a perfect balance of savory, slightly spicy, and creamy textures. It’s also incredibly versatile — you can add more vegetables, spice it up with chili powder, or make it extra cheesy depending on your cravings.

It’s quick to prepare, easy to serve, and feels like a special meal despite being simple enough for a weeknight. Plus, it reheats beautifully for leftovers or meal prep.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it takes two classic comfort foods — chili and macaroni & cheese — and combines them into a single, indulgent meal. It’s filling, flavorful, and appeals to all ages.

Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or feeding a crowd, chili mac is flexible, satisfying, and fun to serve. The gooey cheese, hearty beef, and rich chili sauce create layers of flavor that are truly unforgettable.

Recipe Details

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

Ingredients

For the Chili Mac:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
• ½ cup milk or cream
• 1–2 tbsp olive oil

Optional Toppings:

• Sour cream
• Chopped green onions
• Jalapeño slices
• Fresh cilantro

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until translucent.
3. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
5. Season with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Add Chili Ingredients

1. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and kidney beans.
2. Simmer over medium heat for 5–7 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 4: Combine with Pasta and Cheese

1. Reduce heat to low and stir in cooked pasta.
2. Add shredded cheddar cheese and milk or cream.
3. Stir until cheese melts and the mixture is creamy and well combined.

Step 5: Serve

1. Spoon chili mac into bowls or onto plates.
2. Sprinkle with extra shredded cheese and optional toppings like sour cream, green onions, or jalapeños.
3. Serve hot and enjoy immediately.

How to Serve

• Serve as a main course with a side of garlic bread or salad.
• Optional: Top with extra cheese, sour cream, or sliced jalapeños for added flavor and texture.
• Perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or meal prep lunches.

Recipe Tips

• Cheese choice: Use sharp cheddar for more flavor or mix in Monterey Jack for creaminess.
• Spice level: Adjust chili powder and paprika to taste.
• Creamy texture: Add a splash more milk or cream for extra creaminess.
• One-pot option: Cook pasta directly in chili sauce for fewer dishes, but add extra liquid.
• Leftovers: Reheat gently with a splash of milk to keep creamy.

Recipe Variations

1. Vegetable Chili Mac: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for extra veggies.
2. Spicy Chili Mac: Include diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce.
3. Slow Cooker Version: Combine all ingredients (except cheese and milk) in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4–5 hours; stir in cheese and milk at the end.
4. Turkey or Chicken Version: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
5. Cheesy Topping Bake: Transfer chili mac to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes until bubbly.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Large pot for pasta
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes — use gluten-free pasta. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes — prepare up to the point of adding cheese and milk, then finish just before serving.

Q3: Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely — bell peppers, corn, zucchini, or spinach work well.

Q4: Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, but block cheese shredded fresh melts more smoothly.

Q5: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes — cook beef, tomatoes, beans, and spices in a slow cooker, then stir in pasta and cheese at the end.

Conclusion

Chili Mac with Ground Beef and Cheese is the ultimate comfort meal that combines two classics into one hearty, cheesy, and satisfying dish. It’s quick to prepare, customizable, and perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or meal prep.

With tender ground beef, savory chili, and gooey melted cheese, this dish delivers bold flavors and comforting textures in every bite. It’s a reliable, crowd-pleasing recipe that will quickly become a staple in your home-cooked meal rotation.