What if you could combine two of the most iconic comfort foods—chili and mac and cheese—into one irresistible dish? Chili Mac and Cheese does just that. This hearty, cheesy, and flavor-packed recipe brings together tender pasta, spiced beef chili, and creamy cheese sauce, all topped with buttery breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a potluck, or simply treating yourself, this dish is bound to be a hit.

Why Chili Mac and Cheese Is the Perfect Dish

Chili Mac and Cheese is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It combines the rich, savory flavors of chili with the creamy indulgence of mac and cheese. The best part? It’s easy to customize, feeds a crowd, and tastes even better the next day. With its bubbling cheese sauce, perfectly spiced meat, and golden breadcrumb topping, this recipe takes comfort food to a whole new level.

Ingredients for Chili Mac and Cheese

For the Chili:

• 2 cups uncooked elbow pasta
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 2 tomatoes, diced (or 1 15-ounce can of whole tomatoes, drained and diced)
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 3 cups (12 ounces) shredded cheese, either a Mexican cheese blend or cheddar
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard

For the Breadcrumb Topping:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

How to Make Chili Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 400°F. This will ensure it’s ready for baking your chili mac and cheese once assembled.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the elbow pasta until al dente, following the package instructions.
3. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Chili

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onions and cook until softened, about 2–3 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook until they break down slightly, about 3–5 minutes.
4. Add the ground beef, black pepper, chili powder, and salt. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5–8 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook until bubbly and golden, about 1–2 minutes.
3. Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Continue whisking as the sauce thickens, about 10–15 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheese and mustard. Mix until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Assemble the Chili Mac and Cheese

1. Combine the cooked pasta, chili mixture, and cheese sauce in your skillet (or a large mixing bowl if the skillet isn’t big enough).
2. Mix until everything is evenly coated.

Step 6: Add Breadcrumb Topping

1. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter and mix it with the breadcrumbs, chili powder, and salt.
2. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the chili mac and cheese.

Step 7: Bake

1. Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese sauce is bubbling.
2. Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Chili Mac and Cheese

• Cheese Choices: For a gooey texture, use a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack. For a smoky flavor, add smoked gouda.
• Spice it Up: Add jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the chili for extra heat.
• Make it Vegetarian: Substitute ground beef with plant-based meat or black beans.
• Use the Right Pasta: Elbow macaroni works best, but penne or rotini can also hold the sauce well.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	450 kcal
Protein	22 g
Carbohydrates	35 g
Fat	20 g
Sodium	800 mg
Fiber	3 g

FAQs About Chili Mac and Cheese

1. Can I make chili mac and cheese ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dish up to the breadcrumb topping stage and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add the topping and bake as directed.

2. Can I freeze chili mac and cheese?

Absolutely. Portion leftovers into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

3. What other toppings can I use?

Feel free to top with sour cream, diced green onions, or sliced jalapeños for extra flavor and presentation.

4. Can I use a different meat?

Ground turkey or chicken work well as substitutes for beef. You can also use sausage for a spicier flavor.

5. How do I prevent my cheese sauce from becoming grainy?

Always use freshly shredded cheese and avoid pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents that can lead to a grainy texture.

6. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat single portions in the microwave or larger portions in a low oven (about 300°F) until heated through.

Conclusion: Make Chili Mac and Cheese Tonight!

There’s something magical about a dish that brings together two beloved comfort foods into one delightful creation. Chili Mac and Cheese offers the perfect blend of creamy, savory, and crunchy textures, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Why not try it tonight? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

Print