Save The first time I made this on a particularly chaotic Tuesday evening, I was skeptical about combining chili with mac and cheese in one pan. But the way the pasta absorbs all those smoky spices while the broth reduces down into this incredibly creamy sauce completely won me over. My husband actually said this is going in the regular rotation before hed even finished his first bowl. Now its become my go-to when I want something that feels indulgent but still comes together in under 30 minutes.
Last winter when my sister came over for an impromptu dinner, I threw this together while we caught up in the kitchen. She kept hovering around the stove asking what smelled so incredible. When we finally sat down to eat, she texted me the next morning saying she and her husband had already made it twice that week. Theres something about that combination of smoky spices and gooey cheese that just makes people feel at home.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef turkey chicken or plant-based ground: The protein foundation that makes this hearty and satisfying. I love using 93% lean beef but turkey keeps it lighter while plant-based makes it completely vegetarian friendly.
- 1 medium onion diced: Adds sweetness and depth that balances the smoky spices perfectly. Yellow onions work great but red onions add nice color too.
- 3 cloves garlic minced: Fresh garlic makes such a difference here. Dont use the pre-minced stuff from a jar if you can help it.
- 2 tbsp chili powder: The backbone of that classic chili flavor. I like a mild ancho chili powder but whatever you have in your pantry works beautifully.
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin: Adds that earthy warm notes that make chili taste like chili. Toast it briefly in a dry pan before adding for even more depth.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika: The secret ingredient that gives this dish that incredible smoky depth without requiring actual smoking or hours of cooking time.
- 1/2 tsp salt plus more to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors together. Start with less and add more at the end since the cheese adds saltiness too.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Freshly ground makes a noticeable difference in the final flavor profile.
- 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes undrained: Those juices become part of the sauce so dont drain them. Fire-roasted tomatoes add even more flavor complexity.
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce: Helps create that rich saucy consistency that coats the pasta perfectly. Use plain sauce not anything with added herbs or sugar.
- 2 cups low-sodium beef or chicken broth: The pasta cooks in this absorbing all the flavor. Low-sodium is important since well be adding salt elsewhere.
- 2 cups dry elbow macaroni or other short pasta: Classic elbows are perfect but any short pasta that can hold onto sauce works beautifully. Gluten-free pasta needs less cooking time usually.
- 2 cups shredded sharp or mild cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar gives more flavor but mild is creamier. I actually love mixing half sharp and half mild for the best of both worlds.
- 1 can black beans or kidney beans drained and rinsed: Totally optional but adds fiber protein and makes it even more filling. I love the texture contrast they provide.
- 1 jalapeo diced: For those who love heat. Remove the seeds and membranes for milder spice or leave them in if you really want to feel it.
Instructions
- Brown your protein to perfection:
- Heat a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add your ground meat and cook until beautifully browned breaking it up with a spoon. This takes about 4 to 5 minutes and dont forget to drain excess fat if needed.
- Build your flavor foundation:
- Add the diced onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds until fragrant being careful not to burn it.
- Add the spice magic:
- Sprinkle in chili powder cumin smoked paprika salt and black pepper. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds to toast the spices and wake up their oils. Your kitchen should smell amazing right about now.
- Create the sauce base:
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with all their juices the tomato sauce and your broth of choice. Stir well to combine making sure to scrape up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Add pasta and bring to a simmer:
- Stir in the dry macaroni plus any beans or diced jalapeo you are using. Bring everything to a gentle boil then reduce heat to a steady simmer. This is where the magic happens as the pasta cooks directly in the sauce.
- Let it cook to perfection:
- Cover and cook stirring occasionally to prevent sticking until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed. This typically takes 10 to 12 minutes but trust your taste buds over the timer.
- Melt in the cheese:
- Turn off the heat completely. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar evenly over the pasta then stir until melted and the sauce transforms into this incredibly creamy dreamy consistency.
- Final seasoning adjustment:
- Taste and adjust with more salt or pepper if needed. This is also when I sometimes add a splash of hot sauce or an extra pinch of smoked paprika if it needs more depth.
- Plate it up:
- Ladle generously into bowls and go wild with your favorite toppings. The contrast of hot creamy pasta against cool sour cream and crunchy tortilla chips is absolutely next level.
Save This recipe has become my emergency dinner for those nights when everyone is hungry but nobody has the energy for anything complicated. Something about the combination of smoky spices and that creamy cheese sauce just makes everything feel better. Last week my son actually requested it for his birthday dinner instead of going out to eat.
Making It Your Own
I love how endlessly customizable this recipe is. Sometimes I swap in ground turkey for a lighter version or use plant-based crumbles to make it vegetarian friendly. The spice blend is totally adjustable too. If your family loves heat add more chili powder or even a dash of cayenne. For a smokier version try adding a teaspoon of chipotle powder in place of some of the regular chili powder.
Perfect Pasta Every Time
The key here is trusting the process and not overcooking the pasta. It will continue softening in that hot sauce even after you take it off the heat so aim for slightly more al dente than you normally would. If you are making this ahead of time undercook it by a minute or two since it will absorb more liquid as it sits.
Toppings That Transform
Never underestimate the power of great toppings to take this from excellent to absolutely outstanding. They add texture temperature contrast and fresh flavors that brighten up the rich creamy base.
- Fresh cilantro adds a bright herbal note that cuts through the richness beautifully
- Crushed tortilla chips provide that perfect salty crunch in every bite
- A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt cools down the spices and adds tang
Save Theres something so satisfying about a one-pan meal that delivers this much flavor and comfort. Whether its a busy weeknight or a lazy weekend this chili mac never fails to bring everyone to the table.
Recipe Help & FAQs
- → Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian version, simply swap the ground meat for plant-based ground or use canned black or kidney beans as your main protein source. Ensure you use vegetable broth instead of beef or chicken broth.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
You can easily control the heat. For more spice, add a diced jalapeño along with the onions, or include 1/2 teaspoon of chipotle powder with the other spices. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the chili powder slightly.
- → What kind of pasta works best?
Elbow macaroni is traditional for this dish, but any other short pasta like ditalini, small shells, or cavatappi would work well. If you need a gluten-free option, use your preferred gluten-free macaroni and follow package directions, as cooking times can vary.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
While best enjoyed fresh, you can certainly prepare this in advance. Cooked chili mac stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you might want to add a splash of broth or milk to restore its creamy consistency.
- → What are some good topping suggestions?
The toppings really elevate this dish! Popular choices include fresh sliced green onions, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, crushed tortilla chips for crunch, extra shredded cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Feel free to get creative with your favorites!
- → Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, while sharp or mild cheddar provides that classic flavor, you can certainly experiment. Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese would add a nice melt and a different flavor profile. A blend of cheddar and a touch of smoked gouda could also be delicious.