If you are craving a comforting, hearty meal that combines the best of pasta and chili, you absolutely have to try this Chili Mac with Cheddar Cheese Recipe. It brings together robust flavors of seasoned ground beef, tender macaroni, and a luscious, creamy cheddar cheese sauce that melts perfectly on top. This dish is a beloved classic that feels like a warm hug on a plate, whether enjoyed as a family dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck contribution. Simple ingredients come together in layers of rich textures and bold tastes that will keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Chili Mac with Cheddar Cheese Recipe lies in its straightforward, well-balanced ingredients. Each item is carefully chosen to build depth, from savory spiced ground beef to creamy cheese sauce and the bright freshness of parsley. These essentials make sure every bite is packed with flavor, texture, and a satisfying finish.
- 1 lb. ground beef 80% lean: Provides hearty protein and a rich base for the chili flavor.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth.
- ½ cup bell pepper, diced: Offers a gentle crunch and a pop of color.
- 3 cloves garlic, diced: Infuses the dish with robust, savory warmth.
- 1.25 oz. packet chili seasoning mix: Delivers that classic chili kick, boosting flavor complexity.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Enhances tomato richness and thickens the sauce.
- 8 oz. tomato sauce: Creates a smooth, tangy chili base.
- 14.5 oz. can diced tomatoes, undrained: Introduces texture and fresh tomato bursts.
- ½ cup chicken broth: Keeps the chili moist and adds subtle savoriness; beef broth can also be used.
- 1 15 oz. can kidney beans, drained: Add creaminess, protein, and earthy flavor.
- 2 cups macaroni, uncooked: The pasta backbone that soaks up all those delicious sauces.
- 2 tablespoons butter: The start of the creamy cheese sauce with a silky mouthfeel.
- 2 tablespoons flour: Thickens the cheese sauce to perfection.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Adds richness to the sauce, making it luxuriously smooth.
- 1 cup milk: Balances creaminess and keeps the cheese sauce silky.
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder: Brings a hint of sharpness that lifts the cheddar flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory notes subtly.
- ¼ teaspoon salt and pepper each: Essential seasonings to bring out all flavors.
- ½ teaspoon hot sauce: Adds a gentle spicy warmth without overpowering.
- 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded: The star ingredient that melts into a creamy topping.
- Fresh parsley to garnish: Provides a fresh, herbaceous finish to brighten the dish.
How to Make Chili Mac with Cheddar Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chili Base
Start by cooking and crumbling the ground beef with diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic in a large skillet over medium heat. As the beef browns, the onions and peppers soften to create a fragrant foundation. Next, sprinkle in the chili seasoning mix to introduce those familiar bold flavors. Stir in the tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juices, and chicken broth. Let everything simmer gently while folding in the kidney beans. This slow simmer helps all the ingredients meld into a rich, hearty chili that envelops you with every spoonful.
Step 2: Boil the Macaroni and Make Cheese Sauce
While the chili simmers, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni until just al dente—soft but with a firm bite. While the pasta cooks, start the cheese sauce by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to make a roux, cooking it just enough to remove the raw taste but not brown it. Gradually add heavy cream and milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens smoothly. Season with mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and hot sauce. Finally, lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and silky.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Chili
Drain the macaroni and fold it gently into the cheese sauce to ensure every noodle is luxuriously coated. Then, carefully mix the chili into the cheesy macaroni mixture, blending the texture and flavors without breaking down the pasta. This careful combination creates that perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and meaty satisfaction.
Step 4: Bake and Garnish
Transfer the combined chili mac to a baking dish and sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Bake in a preheated oven until the cheese melts into a bubbling, golden crust. The baking step adds a wonderful textural contrast with a gooey, cheesy top layer. Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish to add a bright, herbal note that cuts through the richness perfectly.
How to Serve Chili Mac with Cheddar Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes can elevate your Chili Mac with Cheddar Cheese Recipe from comforting to restaurant-quality. Freshly chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh herbal brightness that balances the richness. For an extra kick, sliced jalapeños or a dollop of sour cream bring contrast and creaminess. A few crushed tortilla chips on top can add a fantastic crunch that is so satisfying.
Side Dishes
This dish is quite filling on its own, but pairing it with light, complementary sides can round out your meal beautifully. Crisp green salads with vinaigrette cut through the richness with freshness. Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans offer a nutritious and colorful accompaniment. For a bit of extra indulgence, garlic bread or warm cornbread are classic crowd-pleasers that soak up every last bit of cheesy chili goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting or just want to make mealtime special, presentation matters. Serve your Chili Mac with Cheddar Cheese Recipe in individual ramekins or cast iron skillets for charming rustic appeal. Layer the mac and chili in clear glass baking dishes for a beautiful visual that shows off every cheesy and saucy layer. Sprinkling edible flowers or finely chopped chives on top can take your serving from everyday to extraordinary.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chili Mac with Cheddar Cheese Recipe keeps really well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors tend to meld even more, making it a perfect next-day comfort lunch or dinner. Just be sure to cool it to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain texture and prevent sogginess.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months, which is fantastic for busy weeks. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, omitting the fresh parsley garnish until serving. When frozen properly, it retains its flavor and texture well, providing that comforting meal whenever you need it. Allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently to preserve the creamy texture of the cheese sauce. The best way is in a covered skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to distribute heat evenly. Top with fresh parsley after reheating to refresh the dish’s appearance and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for the Chili Mac with Cheddar Cheese Recipe?
Absolutely! While macaroni is traditional, you can substitute elbow pasta, shells, or even small penne. Just make sure to adjust cooking times so the pasta is al dente before combining with the chili and cheese sauce.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can replace the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or extra beans and vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini for texture. Keep the chili seasoning and cheese sauce the same to maintain rich flavor.
What can I do if I want a spicier Chili Mac with Cheddar Cheese Recipe?
Increase the hot sauce amount or add diced jalapeños while cooking the chili base. You can also sprinkle cayenne pepper or red chili flakes into the cheese sauce for a fiery twist.
How do I make homemade chili seasoning mix?
A simple homemade chili seasoning mix includes chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mixing these spices yourself lets you control the heat level and freshness to perfectly suit your taste.
Can I prepare this dish entirely ahead of time and bake later?
Yes, you can assemble the chili mac in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge to ensure it heats through evenly.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a warm, cheesy, and flavorful bowl of Chili Mac with Cheddar Cheese Recipe that makes any day feel cozy and satisfying. Whether you need a reliable family dinner, a comforting meal to share, or a dish that thrills at potlucks, this recipe delivers every time. I encourage you to give it a try and watch how it becomes a beloved classic in your kitchen too!
Print
Chili Mac with Cheddar Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 18 servings (approximately 18 cups total)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Chili Mac recipe combines flavorful ground beef chili with creamy macaroni and cheese, creating a comforting one-dish meal perfect for family dinners. Featuring a robust chili mix simmered with beans and vegetables, mixed into tender macaroni and topped with melted cheddar cheese, it’s a satisfying and delicious twist on classic comfort foods.
Ingredients
Chili
- 1 lbs. ground beef (80% lean)
- 1 small onion, diced
- ½ cup bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, diced
- 1.25 oz. packet chili seasoning mix (or homemade chili seasoning)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 8 oz. tomato sauce
- 14.5 oz. can diced tomatoes, undrained
- ½ cup chicken broth (substitute beef broth optional)
- 1 15 oz. can kidney beans, drained
Macaroni and Cheese Sauce
- 2 cups uncooked macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- ½ teaspoon hot sauce
- 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded (for cheese sauce)
- 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded (for topping)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Chili: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook and crumble the ground beef along with the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic until the beef is no longer pink and vegetables have softened. Drain excess fat if necessary. Stir in the chili seasoning mix, tomato paste, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juice, and chicken broth. Add the drained kidney beans. Reduce heat and let the chili simmer gently for about 20-25 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Cook the Macaroni and Make Cheese Sauce: While the chili simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Add mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and hot sauce, stirring to combine. Cook until the sauce thickens, then remove from heat and stir in 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Combine Chili and Macaroni: Gently fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until evenly coated. Then add the prepared chili mixture and gently combine to distribute the chili throughout the macaroni and cheese.
- Assemble and Bake: Transfer the chili mac mixture into a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese topping has fully melted and is bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving warm.
Notes
- For a homemade chili seasoning mix, combine chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Be sure not to overcook the macaroni to avoid mushiness after baking.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- Adjust the hot sauce amount to your preferred spice level.
- For a creamier texture, add a little extra heavy cream or milk when making the cheese sauce.
