Description
Looking for a cozy, satisfying meal that combines two iconic comfort foods? This Chili Mac blends hearty chili with cheesy macaroni in one glorious, easy-to-make dish. Perfect as a quick dinner, family favorite, or even a meal prep champion, this one-pot recipe brings bold flavor, satisfying texture, and is endlessly customizable. Ideal for busy weeknights, easy dinner ideas, or comforting food ideas that require minimal cleanup—this dish will instantly become one of your go-to easy recipes.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef
1 small yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juices
1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup elbow macaroni, uncooked
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Optional: chopped green onions, sour cream, jalapeños
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent. Stir in garlic and cook another 30 seconds.
2. Add ground beef, breaking it apart as it browns. Cook until no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
3. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Pour in beef broth and stir in the uncooked macaroni. Bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and liquid is absorbed.
6. Remove from heat. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
7. Serve hot and garnish with green onions, sour cream, or jalapeños if desired.
Notes
For extra creaminess, stir in a spoonful of cream cheese at the end.
You can substitute ground turkey or plant-based meat to suit dietary preferences.
To reheat leftovers, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: chili mac, easy dinner, one pot recipe, pasta, comfort food