Easy Chili Mac

This easy chili mac recipe is about to become your new weeknight hero. It’s everything you love—cheesy and beefy with just the right amount of chili goodness—all packed into a one-dish skillet meal. And this dish doesn’t just taste good; it tastes like victory. Ready in under 30 minutes, you’ll have it on the table before your kids can ask “What’s for dinner?”

Easy Chili Mac Ingredients

• Elbow macaroni: The pasta absorbs the chili sauce, adding heartiness and texture to the dish.
• Ground beef: Ground beef provides a savory base and meaty flavor, giving the chili mac richness and substance.
• Green pepper: Pepper adds a mild, fresh flavor and a bit of crunch, balancing the richer elements.
• Onion: The onion softens as it cooks, imparting a subtle sweetness and depth to the chili mac.
• Chili with beans: This premade chili serves as the primary sauce, bringing seasoned tomatoes, beans and spices to the mix.
• Whole kernel corn: Corn provides a touch of sweetness and contrast in texture to the softer ingredients.
• Cheddar cheese: This shredded cheese melts into the dish, giving it a creamy finish and a sharp, tangy flavor.

Directions

Step 1: Cook the macaroni

Isabella Cassini for Taste Recipes

Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the beef mixture

Isabella Cassini for Taste Recipes

Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook the ground beef, chopped green pepper and chopped onion over medium heat, crumbling the beef as it cooks. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and the vegetables are softened, about five to seven minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.

Step 3: Assemble the chili mac

Isabella Cassini for Taste Recipes

Stir the cooked macaroni, chili with beans and drained corn into the beef mixture. Continue cooking over medium heat until everything is heated through, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, and allow it to melt before serving.

Isabella Cassini for Taste Recipes

Easy Chili Mac Variations

• Add extra vegetables: Stir in diced tomatoes, zucchini or spinach for more color, nutrients and flavor.
• Make it spicy: Incorporate chopped jalapenos or a dash of cayenne pepper to give the dish a kick.
• Use different meat: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken or even sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Try a different cheese: Substitute Monterey Jack, pepper jack or Colby cheese for a new twist on the cheesy topping.
• Make it vegetarian: Replace the ground beef with an extra can of beans or your preferred meat substitute to keep it hearty and satisfying.
• Use whole-wheat pasta: Opt for whole-wheat elbow macaroni to add more fiber and a nuttier flavor.

How to Store Easy Chili Mac

To store leftover chili mac, let it cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to keep the pasta from drying out, then reheat it in a saucepan on the stove or microwave it in short bursts, stirring occasionally for even heating.

Can you freeze easy chili mac?

Yes, you can freeze easy chili mac for later! After cooking, allow the dish to cool, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little water or broth if needed.

Can you make easy chili mac ahead of time?

Absolutely! Easy chili mac is a great make-ahead meal. Prepare the recipe as directed, then store it in the refrigerator for up to four days (it tastes best when consumed up to two days after it’s made). When you’re ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little liquid to keep the pasta from drying out.

Easy Chili Mac Tips

Isabella Cassini for Taste Recipes

Can you make chili mac in a slow cooker?

Yes, chili mac is a perfect dish to make in the slow cooker. To make slow-cooker chili macaroni and cheese, it’s best to slow-cook the chili in your slow cooker, then add cooked pasta and cheese at the end.

Can I use a different type of pasta for chili mac?

Yes, you can easily swap out the elbow macaroni for other short pasta shapes like penne, rotini or shells. Just make sure to cook the pasta according to its package instructions, as cooking times vary depending on the shape.

What can I serve with chili mac?

Chili mac pairs well with sides like simple lettuce salad, buttery cornbread and garlic bread. Tangy, crunchy, creamy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chili mac and adds a nice balance of flavors. You can also add toppings like sour cream, chopped green onions or diced avocado for extra flavor and texture.

How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy in chili mac?

To avoid mushy pasta, cook the macaroni just until it’s al dente, meaning that it still has a bit of bite. This helps to ensure that the pasta maintains its texture when mixed and reheated with the chili.