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If you’ve ever dreamed of a dish that perfectly blends the comforting creaminess of mac and cheese with the bold, hearty flavors of chili, then this Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This beloved meal brings together tender ground beef, savory spices, tender macaroni, and rich melted cheese in a way that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s a crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or any time you’re craving something both satisfying and downright delicious. Trust me, once you try this Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe, it will quickly become a cherished staple in your recipe collection!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe calls for straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients, each playing a crucial role in crafting its rich depth of flavor, creamy texture, and vibrant color. From fresh veggies to the blend of spices and, of course, the cheese, everything comes together beautifully and simply.
- Ground beef (80% lean): Provides hearty protein and a juicy base for the chili component.
- Small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and subtle crunch that balances the spices.
- Bell pepper, diced: Brings bright color and a touch of natural sweetness.
- Garlic cloves, diced: Infuses the dish with savory warmth and depth.
- Chili seasoning mix (1.25 oz. packet): Gives that classic chili kick with layers of spices.
- Tomato paste (1 tablespoon): Concentrates tomato flavor for richness.
- Tomato sauce (8 oz.): Creates a luscious, saucy base.
- Diced tomatoes (14.5 oz. can, undrained): Adds texture and bursts of acidity.
- Chicken broth (½ cup): Enhances overall flavor with a subtle savory note; can swap for beef broth.
- Kidney beans (15 oz. can, drained): Adds protein and a hearty texture synonymous with chili.
- Macaroni (2 cups, uncooked): The comforting pasta base that holds everything together.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Essential for making the creamy cheese sauce.
- Flour (2 tablespoons): Helps thicken the cheese sauce perfectly.
- Heavy cream (½ cup): Gives the cheese sauce a luxuriously smooth texture.
- Milk (1 cup): Balances the cream and keeps the sauce silky.
- Mustard powder (½ teaspoon): Adds a subtle tang to enhance the cheese flavor.
- Onion powder (¼ teaspoon): Layered seasoning deepens the overall taste.
- Salt and pepper (¼ teaspoon each): Essential to season everything just right.
- Hot sauce (½ teaspoon): Adds a bit of heat to keep things lively.
- Cheddar cheese, shredded (3 cups total): The star cheese that melts into creamy perfection.
- Fresh parsley, for garnish: Provides a fresh, herbaceous finishing touch.
How to Make Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Sizzle Up the Chili
Start by cooking the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Break it apart as it browns, then add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pan. This aromatic base will fill your kitchen with irresistible smells right away. Once the veggies are tender, stir in the chili seasoning mix, tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juices, and chicken broth. Add the drained kidney beans, then reduce the heat and let everything simmer gently for about 20 minutes. This slow simmer allows all the flavors to meld into a rich, hearty chili foundation that’s simply mouthwatering.
Step 2: Boil the Macaroni
While your chili simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package’s directions until al dente. This will ensure your pasta maintains a nice bite and doesn’t get mushy after baking. Drain the macaroni and set it aside as you prepare the cheesier part of this dish.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for a couple of minutes to form a roux – this is key to that luscious sauce texture. Gradually add the heavy cream and milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Stir in the mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and hot sauce for a subtle zing. Once the sauce thickens, remove from heat and fold in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and velvety smooth.
Step 4: Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce
Pour the drained macaroni into the cheese sauce and gently stir until the pasta is fully coated in creamy, cheesy goodness. This step makes sure every bite is deeply satisfying, with just the right balance of cheesy richness.
Step 5: Mix Chili with Mac and Cheese
Carefully fold the simmered chili into your cheesy macaroni mixture. Take your time here so everything combines evenly without breaking up the pasta. The chili infuses the cheese sauce with its smoky, hearty flavors, creating the magic of this Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe.
Step 6: Bake to Melty Perfection
Transfer the combined mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar evenly over the top. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and golden. Once out of the oven, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to add a bright and fresh note to your comforting dish.
How to Serve Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation and taste, fresh parsley is a simple yet effective garnish. You can also sprinkle a little extra shredded cheddar or a dash of smoked paprika for color and warmth. These little touches make the dish pop visually and add subtle layers of flavor that your guests will appreciate.
Side Dishes
This Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe is quite hearty on its own, but pairing it with crisp green salads or roasted vegetables helps balance the meal. Consider a fresh cucumber and tomato salad with a light vinaigrette or roasted broccoli with lemon zest. Cornbread or warm dinner rolls also make excellent companions for soaking up every cheesy chili bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative by serving this dish in individual ramekins for a charming single-serve look or assemble it as a layered casserole with a crunchy breadcrumb topping for added texture. For a fun twist, spoon it into baked bell peppers or hollowed-out mini pumpkins, making it perfect for festive gatherings or family dinners that wow.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep well for up to 3-4 days. The flavors continue to develop, making the next-day meal just as comforting and satisfying.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Portion the cooled Chili Mac and Cheese into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just be sure to label with the date so you can enjoy it at its best.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge or reheat directly from frozen by covering with foil and baking at 350°F until warmed through. On the stovetop, reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of milk if needed to restore the creamy texture. Avoid overheating to keep the cheese smooth and luscious.
FAQs
Can I make my own chili seasoning mix for this recipe?
Absolutely! Making your own chili seasoning lets you control the spice level and customize flavors. Combine chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and cayenne pepper to create a balanced seasoning blend perfect for this recipe.
What type of macaroni works best?
Traditional elbow macaroni is classic and ideal because it holds the cheese sauce well and fits nicely with the chili texture. However, small pasta shapes like shells or mini penne also work beautifully if you want a little twist.
Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?
Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based proteins can be delicious alternatives. The key is to cook them thoroughly and season well to keep that Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe just as flavorful and hearty.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or extra beans and vegetables. Using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth keeps it friendly for vegetarians without sacrificing taste.
How spicy is this Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe?
The heat is mild and balanced with the ½ teaspoon of hot sauce, making it approachable for most palates. You can always adjust the amount of hot sauce or add chopped jalapeños if you love a spicier kick.
Final Thoughts
This Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe is a wonderful example of how two beloved comfort foods can come together to create something extraordinary. It’s hearty, cheesy, spicy, and bursting with flavor—a true kitchen favorite that can become your go-to for feeding a crowd or simply treating yourself to a cozy night in. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own!
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Print
Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 18 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty and comforting Chili Mac recipe combines spicy chili with creamy macaroni and cheese for a delicious one-dish meal. Ground beef, vegetables, beans, and chili seasoning create a rich chili base, which is mixed with a creamy cheese sauce and elbow macaroni. Baked until bubbly and topped with melted cheddar cheese, this dish makes a satisfying dinner perfect for family gatherings or meal prep.
Ingredients
Chili
- 1 lb. ground beef (80% lean)
- 1 small onion, diced
- ½ cup bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, diced
- 1.25 oz. packet chili seasoning mix (or homemade chili seasoning)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 8 oz. tomato sauce
- 14.5 oz. can diced tomatoes, undrained
- ½ cup chicken broth (can substitute beef broth)
- 1 15 oz. can kidney beans, drained
Mac and Cheese
- 2 cups macaroni, uncooked
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- ½ teaspoon hot sauce
- 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded (plus extra for topping)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Make the Chili: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook and crumble the ground beef along with diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic until the meat is browned and the vegetables are softened. Stir in chili seasoning mix, tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juice, and chicken broth. Add drained kidney beans and bring to a simmer. Let the chili simmer gently for about 20 minutes to meld flavors.
- Cook the Macaroni: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the uncooked macaroni and cook until al dente according to package instructions, usually about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a roux and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in heavy cream and milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and is smooth. Season the sauce with mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and hot sauce. Remove the pan from heat and stir in 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring well to coat evenly.
- Mix Chili and Macaroni Cheese: Gently fold the prepared chili into the cheesy macaroni mixture until fully combined, being careful not to mash the beans.
- Assemble and Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the combined chili mac mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle additional cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- For homemade chili seasoning, combine chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Substitute kidney beans with black beans if preferred.
- Use beef broth instead of chicken broth for a richer flavor.
- Make it spicier by adding extra hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chili.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream and milk.
