Easy Chili Mac
Ever crave a warm, cheesy hug in a bowl?
You’re in for a treat with Easy Chili Mac! This dish combines the comforting goodness of macaroni with the bold flavors of chili, creating a meal that’s quick, creamy, and totally satisfying. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe is bound to be a new family favorite—trust me, it has a bit of a viral buzz for good reason!
Why make this recipe
Why jump on the Easy Chili Mac wagon, you ask? Let me break it down for you:
- One-pan wonder: Less time cleaning means more time relaxing (or binge-watching your favorite show).
- Budget-friendly: With simple, affordable ingredients, you can enjoy this comfort food without breaking the bank.
- Family-approved: Kids and adults alike devour this dish – it’s cheesy, hearty, and oh-so-delicious. Who can say no to that?
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics! Grab:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup cheddar cheese
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups water or beef broth
Directions
Follow these steps to chili mac perfection:
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
- Add the diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Pour in the water or beef broth and bring to a boil.
- Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reduce heat to low, stir in the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, and mix until melted and creamy.
- Serve hot and enjoy your easy chili mac!
How to make Easy Chili Mac (Overview)
Getting your hands on this chili mac is super simple! Start by browning your beef until it’s perfectly cooked. Toss in the tomatoes and spices—hello, flavor! 🤤 Then, add your broth and pasta. Once it’s bubbling away, melt in those glorious cheeses for that creamy finish. Pro tip: Don’t skip the cheese! It’s what makes it all come together.
How to serve Easy Chili Mac
Think of all the serving possibilities! This dish looks vibrant with its beautiful golden-orange cheese melting into the rich red tomatoes. Serve it up with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream for that extra zing. You could even throw in some crunchy tortilla chips for a fun texture contrast. Just imagine it all coming together, with a warm aroma wafting through your home—pure comfort!
How to store Easy Chili Mac
Leftovers? You’ll be glad to know Easy Chili Mac keeps well! Store it in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze it for about 2 months. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out. Make-ahead meals? Yes, please!
Tips to make Easy Chili Mac
- Beef swap: Ground turkey or chicken can work well if you’re looking for a leaner option.
- Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce for a fiery kick.
- Texture: For a little crunch, add some crushed tortilla chips right before serving. You’ll love the contrast!
- Vegan version: Swap beef for black beans or lentils and use plant-based cheese. Yum!
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can amp up the flavor profile!
Variation
Feeling adventurous? Try adding some cooked beans for extra protein or spices like smoked paprika for depth. Slip in veggies like bell peppers or corn for a twist on the classic – the flavor combinations are endless!
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Just prepare the chili mac and store it in the fridge, then heat it up when ready to serve.
Q: How can I make Easy Chili Mac gluten-free?
Use gluten-free elbow macaroni and ensure your broth and other ingredients are certified gluten-free!
Q: What can I substitute for ground beef?
Try ground turkey, chicken, or any plant-based crumbles that tickle your fancy!
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Easy Chili Mac
Ingrédients
Method
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
- Add the diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Pour in the water or beef broth and bring to a boil.
- Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reduce heat to low, stir in the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, and mix until melted and creamy.
- Serve hot and enjoy your easy chili mac!
