This Chili Mac and Cheese is the perfect balance of rich, hearty chili and creamy, cheesy macaroni. The combination of bold flavors and comforting textures makes it an instant favorite for both kids and adults. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner, a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, or an easy game-day meal, this recipe delivers.
The best part? You can adjust the spice level, swap in your favorite cheese, or even make it ahead for a quick reheat. With just one pot and a simple baking step, this dish is as easy as it is delicious. Serve it hot and watch it disappear fast!
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Chili:
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1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
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1 small onion, diced
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½ cup bell pepper, diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1.25 oz chili seasoning mix (or homemade, see notes)
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1 tablespoon tomato paste
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8 oz tomato sauce
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14.5 oz can diced tomatoes, undrained
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½ cup chicken broth (or beef broth)
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1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained
For the Mac and Cheese:
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2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
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2 tablespoons butter
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2 tablespoons flour
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½ cup heavy cream
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1 cup milk
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½ teaspoon mustard powder
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¼ teaspoon onion powder
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¼ teaspoon each: salt & pepper
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½ teaspoon hot sauce
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1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded
For Baking:
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1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded
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Fresh parsley, for garnish
Directions:
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Make the Chili:
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In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the ground beef for 2 minutes. Add onions and cook for another 5 minutes, until beef is browned and onions are soft. Drain excess grease.
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Stir in the bell peppers and garlic, cooking for 4 more minutes until peppers are tender.
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Mix in the chili seasoning and tomato paste, stirring for 1 minute.
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Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with juice), and broth. Stir well. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cover partially and let simmer while you prepare the mac and cheese. Add drained kidney beans in the last 10 minutes.
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Make the Mac and Cheese:
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Cook macaroni in salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
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In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Once foaming, whisk in flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
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Slowly pour in heavy cream, whisking continuously. Do the same with milk.
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Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Stir in hot sauce, mustard powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
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Reduce heat to low and gradually stir in shredded cheddar until smooth.
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Mix in the drained macaroni until well coated in cheese sauce.
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Combine & Bake:
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Stir the prepared chili into the mac and cheese. Adjust ratio to your preference.
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Transfer to a baking dish and top with shredded cheddar.
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Bake uncovered for 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted.
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Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot!
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Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 580 kcal per serving | Servings: 6
Chili Mac and Cheese – The Ultimate Comfort Food
Chili Mac and Cheese is the perfect fusion of two classic comfort foods: hearty homemade chili and creamy, cheesy macaroni. This dish brings together the bold flavors of chili with the gooey, indulgent texture of mac and cheese, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners, potlucks, and game-day gatherings. Whether you need a filling meal for the family or a dish that will impress your guests, this recipe has everything you could ask for—flavor, texture, and simplicity.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a one-pot wonder, combining the best aspects of two beloved dishes. The rich and slightly spicy chili adds depth and heartiness, while the smooth, creamy cheese sauce coats each macaroni piece for the ultimate comfort-food experience. It’s a crowd-pleaser, appealing to kids and adults alike, and it’s easy to customize to your preferences.
If you’re a fan of mac and cheese but love the added warmth of a savory chili, this dish is a must-try. The combination of melted cheddar, seasoned beef, and soft pasta creates a balance of textures that is both satisfying and irresistible.
Origins of Chili Mac and Cheese
Chili Mac has been a staple in American households for decades, combining the best parts of chili and pasta for a dish that is both filling and economical. It gained popularity due to its easy preparation, making it a common meal among families looking for a hearty, budget-friendly dinner. Over time, the recipe has evolved to include creamy cheese sauce, giving it an indulgent twist that elevates it beyond a simple chili-pasta mix.
Perfect for Any Occasion
One of the best things about Chili Mac and Cheese is its versatility. It’s the perfect dish for a variety of occasions, including:
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Weeknight Dinners: It’s a simple, quick meal that satisfies the entire family.
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Potlucks and Gatherings: This dish is easy to transport and stays delicious even after sitting for a while.
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Game Day Food: Whether you’re hosting a party or watching a game with friends, this hearty meal is perfect for feeding a crowd.
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Meal Prep: Leftovers store well and can be reheated for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Customizing Your Chili Mac and Cheese
One of the great things about this dish is how easy it is to tweak to your taste. Here are some variations and substitutions you can try:
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Meat Options: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives.
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Beans or No Beans: Traditional chili often includes beans, but if you prefer a no-bean chili, simply leave them out.
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Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding more or less chili seasoning, hot sauce, or even diced jalapeños.
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Cheese Choices: While cheddar is the classic choice, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even smoked gouda for a richer flavor.
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Pasta Variety: Elbow macaroni works best, but you can substitute with shells, penne, or rotini for a different texture.
Tips for the Best Chili Mac and Cheese
For the best results, keep these tips in mind when preparing your Chili Mac and Cheese:
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Simmer the Chili Long Enough: The longer your chili simmers, the richer the flavors will be. If you have extra time, let it cook for 30-40 minutes for a deep, well-developed taste.
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Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the macaroni will absorb some of the sauce, cook it until just al dente to avoid mushy pasta.
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Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-packaged shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. For the creamiest sauce, shred your cheese fresh from a block.
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Balance the Liquid: If your chili is too thick, add a little extra broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid.
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Bake for Extra Flavor: While you can serve this dish straight from the stovetop, baking it with a layer of cheese on top for a few minutes gives it a golden, bubbly finish that enhances the overall taste.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
If you have leftovers, Chili Mac and Cheese stores well and tastes just as good the next day.
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Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
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Freezing: If you want to freeze leftovers, portion them into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
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Reheating: Warm leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to bring back the creamy consistency. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Pairing Suggestions
Since Chili Mac and Cheese is already a filling, rich dish, pair it with lighter sides for a well-balanced meal:
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Fresh Green Salad: A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the hearty flavors of this dish.
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Garlic Bread: A warm slice of garlic bread or cornbread complements the cheesy and savory notes.
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Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or carrots add a healthy touch to your meal.
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Pickled Jalapeños: If you like extra spice, top your Chili Mac with pickled jalapeños for a zesty kick.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
There are plenty of mac and cheese variations, but what makes Chili Mac and Cheese special is the way it merges two favorites into one dish. Unlike traditional mac and cheese, which can sometimes feel too heavy on its own, the addition of chili adds a new dimension of texture and spice.
At the same time, this version is more indulgent than a simple chili recipe. The creamy, melty cheese sauce ensures that every bite is rich and satisfying. Whether you’re a fan of chili, macaroni, or both, this dish offers the best of both worlds.
Conclusion
Chili Mac and Cheese is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting, satisfying dish that brings warmth and joy to the table. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual dinner, a gathering with friends, or meal prep for the week, this recipe is a reliable go-to.
Its versatility, ease of preparation, and bold flavors make it a favorite for many. Plus, with the ability to customize it to your liking, it’s a dish that can be enjoyed in countless ways. Try it out for your next meal and experience the perfect blend of creamy mac and cheese with hearty chili—it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!