Description
Looking for an easy dinner idea that hits all the comfort food notes? This **Chili Mac and Cheese** is your new go-to: a one-pot recipe that’s quick, satisfying, and packed with flavor. It combines the spicy, savory goodness of chili with creamy, cheesy pasta in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Whether you’re after a kid-friendly meal, hearty lunch prep, or a creative spin on mac & cheese, this dish delivers. Great for anyone craving quick dinners, hearty food ideas, or comfort meals with a twist.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, with juices
1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
2½ cups beef broth
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (optional)
Instructions
1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
2. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
3. Add chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to evenly coat the meat.
4. Pour in diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, and kidney beans. Stir everything together.
5. Add beef broth and uncooked macaroni. Stir, then bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and sauce thickens.
7. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
8. Sprinkle remaining cheese over top, cover the pot, and let it sit for 2–3 minutes to melt.
9. Garnish with parsley or cilantro if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and texture.
If the mixture looks too dry, add a bit more broth while simmering.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving—it helps the flavors meld and thickens the sauce.
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 generous bowl
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: easy dinner, chili mac, cheesy pasta, comfort food, one-pot meal, quick weeknight dinner