Name: Simple Chili Mac Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef; 1/2 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (4 ounce) can diced green chilies (mild or hot); 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt & pepper to taste; 2 cups beef broth; 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce; 1/2 cup heavy cream or evaporated milk; 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni; 2 cups Mexican blend cheese or cheddar, shredded

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 133 reviews

There is something incredibly comforting and satisfying about a good bowl of chili combined with pasta, and this Simple Chili Mac Recipe hits all the right notes. It brings together the rich, hearty flavors of seasoned ground beef, smoky spices, and creamy cheese with tender elbow macaroni in one pot. Whether you’re feeding a family or craving a warm, filling meal after a long day, this dish comes together quickly and delivers big on taste. The beauty of this Simple Chili Mac Recipe is that it’s straightforward enough for weeknights yet tasty enough to please everyone around the table.

Ingredients You'll Need

A white tray with raw pink ground beef sits at the top left, next to an open tin of red tomato sauce on a white marbled surface. Below them, a transparent measuring cup filled with dark brown beef broth is placed beside another transparent measuring cup holding yellow elbow macaroni. A small yellow bowl contains reddish-brown chili powder near the center, with a small mint green bowl of red smoked paprika to the right. A can of green chilies with a spoon is open on the left side next to a small mint green bowl with finely minced garlic. At the bottom, a transparent measuring cup with white heavy cream is to the left of a white bowl filled with chopped white onions. On the right, another transparent measuring cup is filled with shredded pale yellow and white Mexican cheese. All items are arranged neatly on the white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting just the right balance of flavors starts with using simple, essential ingredients that each play a crucial role in bringing this dish to life. From the savory ground beef to the bright tomato sauce and creamy cheese, each item is chosen to layer flavor, texture, and color perfectly.

Lean ground beef: The backbone of this chili mac, providing hearty flavor and protein.

Onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic base when cooked down.
Garlic cloves: Boosts savory depth with fragrant, pungent notes.
Chili powder: Brings warmth and spice—choose your favorite blend for a personalized touch.
Smoked paprika: Adds a smoky layer that complements the chili powder beautifully.

Diced green chilies: For a gentle heat and tangy brightness, mild or hot depending on preference.
Beef broth: Keeps the dish moist and infuses it with savory richness.
Tomato sauce: Provides acidity and depth of flavor to balance the beef.

Heavy cream or evaporated milk: Adds creaminess that mellows out the spices and unites the dish.
Uncooked elbow macaroni: The classic pasta choice that holds sauce well and adds heartiness.
Mexican blend or cheddar cheese: Melts into the dish for gooey, cheesy deliciousness.

Salt and pepper: The simple seasonings that make everything shine.

How to Make Simple Chili Mac Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onions

Start by heating a Dutch oven or large soup pot over medium-high heat and adding your lean ground beef and chopped onions. Cook for about 7 to 10 minutes until the meat is browned and the onions are soft, breaking the beef apart as you go. Remember to skim off excess fat if there’s too much pooling in the pot—this helps keep the dish from becoming greasy and lets the flavors focus where they should.

Step 2: Add Spices and Aromatics

Next, stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, and diced green chilies. These spices will start infusing the beef with a wonderful smoky and spicy aroma that sets the tone for your chili mac. Let everything cook together for a couple of minutes so the flavors can marry beautifully.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Prepare to Simmer

Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, and heavy cream or evaporated milk. Turn the heat up to high and bring everything just to a boil. This combination of liquids creates a luscious, slightly tangy base that will cook down and thicken as the pasta absorbs the flavors.

Step 4: Cook the Macaroni

Once boiling, add in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Reduce the heat to maintain a rapid simmer—usually medium heat works perfectly. Let the pasta cook uncovered for about 13 minutes, stirring every few minutes to stop it from sticking to the bottom. Keep an eye on the liquid level; if it evaporates too fast before the pasta is tender, add a splash more broth and lower the heat. This step ensures your macaroni is perfectly tender while soaking up all those rich chili flavors.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Seasoning

Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Then taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. If the chili mac seems a bit watery, cover the pot and let it sit for a few minutes so the liquid can be absorbed. For that extra cheesy flare, sprinkle an additional ½ cup of cheese on top, cover, and let it melt into a bubbly layer. This final step brings everything together into a comforting, creamy masterpiece.

How to Serve Simple Chili Mac Recipe

A green pot filled with a single thick layer of macaroni pasta mixed with finely crumbled cooked meat in a rich, creamy, orange-red tomato sauce, showing small bits of herbs sprinkled on top, with the sauce coating the sides of the pot. A white spoon is placed inside the pot, resting on the sauce, with part of the spoon submerged under the mix. The pot is on a surface with a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro or green onions adds a vibrant pop of color and freshness. For a creamy contrast, dollop sour cream or a spoonful of guacamole right on top. You can also add a few slices of jalapeno for a spicy kick or some crunchy crushed tortilla chips to add texture. These simple garnishes elevate the dish and invite everyone to customize their bowls.

Side Dishes

This hearty chili mac pairs beautifully with light, crisp sides that balance its richness. Try a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans. Cornbread or garlic bread on the side can soak up any extra sauce and complete the meal with cozy, comforting bread.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this Simple Chili Mac Recipe in colorful bowls to make the vibrant cheese and chilies pop. For a fun twist, try layering it in a casserole dish topped with extra cheese and bake until bubbly and golden. You can also spoon it into large bell pepper halves or stuff warm tortillas for easy chili mac wraps. The possibilities to get playful with presentation are endless and will impress any guest or family member.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover chili mac keeps incredibly well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Its flavors deepen even more after sitting, making it a great make-ahead meal. Just be sure to let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain the best texture.

Freezing

This dish also freezes beautifully if you want to stock up. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving room for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the chili mac on the stove over medium heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems dry to restore creamy consistency. You can also microwave leftovers covered in short intervals, stirring in between. Just avoid overheating to keep pasta tender and cheese luscious.

FAQs

Can I make this Simple Chili Mac Recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply swap out the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and the rest of the recipe remains the same for a delicious vegetarian version.

Is there a way to make this recipe less spicy?

Yes, you can adjust the heat by using mild chili powder or reducing the amount. Opt for mild diced green chilies and leave out any extra hot spices. The dish will still be full of flavor but gentler on the palate.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Definitely. While elbow macaroni is classic, you can substitute with other small pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to make sure pasta cooks perfectly.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Mild cheddar or a Mexican blend cheese works wonderfully for meltability and flavor. You can also experiment with Monterey Jack or a sharp white cheddar for a different twist.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance for a party?

This recipe is ideal for making a few hours ahead or even a day before. Just reheat gently on the stove, add any last-minute cheese or garnishes, and serve warm. It’s always a crowd-pleaser!

Final Thoughts

This Simple Chili Mac Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl—easy to make, full of flavor, and totally comforting. Whether it becomes your go-to weeknight dinner or a special treat on chilly days, it’s sure to bring smiles around your table. Give it a try and see just how quickly it becomes a beloved favorite in your home!

Simple Chili Mac Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need