Chili Mac

Print Recipe

5 from 2 votes

Chili mac blends two classic comfort dishes—chili and mac and cheese—into one tasty, easy-to-make meal!

Prep Time15

Cook Time10

Total Time25

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Keyword: chili mac

Servings: servings

Author: Chelsea Lords

Cost: $12.87

Equipment

Large pot 6-quart

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup finely diced yellow onion 1 onion
1 pound ground beef 93/7
1 tablespoon minced garlic
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 teaspoons cumin
2 teaspoons chili powder
2 teaspoons paprika
1-1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
28 ounces crushed tomatoes see note 1
2-1/2 cups chicken broth or stock
2 cups elbow pasta
1 can (16-ounces) chili beans
2 cups freshly shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese
Optional toppings see note 2

US - Metric

Instructions

Heat a large nonstick pot over high heat. Add the olive oil and onion, sautéing for 2 minutes while stirring occasionally. Push the onion to the edges of the pan.
Add the ground beef to the center of the pan. Let it sear for 1 minute, then use a wooden spoon to break it up and crumble. Cook until mostly browned.
Stir in the minced garlic, tomato paste, cumin, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and fragrant.
Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, pasta, and chili beans. Stir and bring the mixture to a simmer. Lower the heat to medium, cover, and cook for 9-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente. The mixture will still be slightly saucy but will thicken (see note 3).
Remove the pot from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or pepper if needed. Sprinkle the remaining cup of cheese on top, cover, and let sit for 2-3 minutes to melt.
Remove the lid and add your favorite optional toppings. Serve immediately!

Video

Notes

Note 1: Higher-quality tomatoes will enhance the flavor of the dish.

Note 2: Freshly chopped cilantro, sour cream, or diced avocado make great additions.

Note 3: Remove the pot from heat once the pasta is al dente. The pasta will continue to absorb liquid off the heat, so it's better to slightly undercook it. Overcooked pasta can't be fixed!

Nutrition