Chili Mac is a comforting dish that combines flavorful chili with pasta, making it a favorite for many families. This Easy Chili Mac Recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. It’s quick to prepare, filling, and absolutely delicious. Whether you are feeding a crowd or looking for a simple meal, this recipe hits the spot!
Why Make This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons to make this Easy Chili Mac. First, it’s an all-in-one meal that combines protein, carbs, and rich flavors. It also requires minimal clean-up, as everything cooks in one pot. Plus, it’s great for leftovers, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Whether you’re looking to satisfy hungry kids or impress guests with a homemade dish, this Chili Mac will do the trick!
How to Make Easy Chili Mac
Making this Easy Chili Mac is straightforward and doesn’t require any fancy cooking skills. Just follow the steps below, and you’ll have a hearty meal in no time!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound 90-93% lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 4 cups beef broth
- 15-ounce can petite diced tomatoes
- 15-ounce can tomato sauce
- 1 1/2 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 8 ounces uncooked elbow macaroni (about 2 cups)
- For serving: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, etc.
Directions:
- In a large soup pot, add the ground beef and chopped onion. Heat over medium-high heat. Use a wooden spoon to break the beef apart. Cook for 6-7 minutes until the beef is browned and the onions are soft.
- Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, sugar, and pepper. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Once simmering, add the uncooked macaroni. Keep simmering, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender, about 12 minutes.
- Serve your Chili Mac topped with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, or your favorite toppings.
How to Serve Easy Chili Mac
You can serve Easy Chili Mac in bowls for a casual meal. It’s perfect as a hearty dish on a chilly night. Add toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or some chopped green onions to elevate the flavors. Pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete dinner.
How to Store Easy Chili Mac
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until hot. You may need to add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.
Tips to Make Easy Chili Mac
- Use lean ground beef to keep the dish healthier, but you can also substitute it with turkey or plant-based ground meat.
- Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. If you prefer it spicier, add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
- For a vegetarian version, skip the beef and use extra beans and vegetables instead.
- Make it cheesy by mixing in some cheese while cooking or topping it generously before serving.
Variation
You can make this recipe using whole wheat elbow macaroni for a healthier option. Alternatively, try adding different vegetables such as bell peppers or corn for extra flavor and nutrition.
FAQs
1. Can I freeze Easy Chili Mac?
Yes, you can freeze Chili Mac! Just let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container. It will last for about 2-3 months in the freezer. Reheat before serving.
2. How can I make it spicier?
To make your Chili Mac spicier, you can add more chili powder, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce. Just be sure to taste as you go to reach your desired heat level.
3. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use other pasta shapes like rotini, shells, or penne. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as they may differ.
Enjoy your Easy Chili Mac! It’s a simple yet tasty dish that you and your loved ones will enjoy again and again.
Easy Chili Mac
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound 90-93% lean ground beef Can be substituted with turkey or plant-based meat.
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 15-ounce can petite diced tomatoes With juices.
- 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce
Spices
- 1 1/2 tablespoons chili powder Adjust for spiciness.
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Pasta
- 8 ounces uncooked elbow macaroni Approximately 2 cups.
For Serving
- to taste shredded cheddar cheese
- to taste sour cream
- to taste chopped green onions
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large soup pot, add the ground beef and chopped onion. Heat over medium-high heat. Use a wooden spoon to break the beef apart. Cook for 6-7 minutes until the beef is browned and the onions are soft.
Cooking
- Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, sugar, and pepper. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Once simmering, add the uncooked macaroni. Keep simmering, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender, about 12 minutes.
Serving
- Serve your Chili Mac topped with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, or your favorite toppings.
