➤ Table of Contents
Hi, I’m Chloe—and if you’ve ever found yourself smiling while stirring a simmering pot or sneaking a taste of cookie dough straight from the bowl, then you’re in the right place. I started this recipe blog not just to share meals, but to share moments. Some of my fondest memories were made in the kitchen—messy, imperfect, joy-filled memories that always seemed to center around food.
Whether I’m crafting a cozy weeknight dinner, testing a nostalgic dessert, or simply experimenting with seasonal ingredients, each recipe I post is something I’ve truly loved making (and eating). This space was born from the belief that cooking shouldn’t be complicated or intimidating—it should be creative, comforting, and, most of all, fun. I want this blog to feel like your favorite corner of the internet, the one you turn to when you’re craving something delicious or need a spark of inspiration. Here, we welcome kitchen wins and happy accidents alike, because every step is part of the story.
Over time, this blog has become more than just a collection of recipes—it’s become a community. I’ve been lucky to connect with so many incredible home cooks who share their tips, tweaks, and even their flops with such honesty and enthusiasm. It reminds me why I started this in the first place: to bring people together, one bite at a time. So whether you’re here for buttery bakes, bold flavors, or just a quiet moment in a busy day, I’m so glad you’ve found your way here. My hope is that the recipes I share become part of your home and your memories—because food, after all, is meant to be shared. Welcome to my kitchen. Let’s cook something beautiful together.
Chili Mac
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Discover how to make Chili Mac with this easy-to-follow recipe. Learn the perfect blend of spices and techniques for a comforting, flavorful dish everyone will love.
Ingredients
1 yellow onion($0.70)
2 clovesgarlic($0.08)
1 Tbsp (15 ml) olive oil($0.22)
1 lb (454 g).ground beef(see notes, $4.98)
2 Tbsp (30 ml) all-purpose flour($0.03)
1 Tbsp (15 ml) chili powder($0.30)
1/2 tsp (3 ml) smoked paprika($0.05)
1/2 tsp (3 ml) garlic powder($0.05)
1/2 tsp (3 ml) dried oregano($0.05)
8 oz (227 g).tomato sauce($0.56)
3 cup (720 ml) sbeef broth(see notes, $0.39)
1/2 lb (227 g).uncooked macaroni (about 2 cup (480 ml) s, $0.59)
1 cup (240 ml) shredded cheddar($0.98)
Instructions
1. Chop the yellow onion and finely chop the garlic cloves. Place them in a large deep pan or Dutch oven with olive oil and cook over medium heat until the onions become soft and clear (approximately 5 minutes).
2. Add the ground beef to the pan and keep stirring and cooking until the beef is fully cooked. If using ground beef with higher fat, consider draining the extra fat now.
3. Mix in the flour, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and oregano with the beef and onions. Continue cooking and stirring for around two minutes, ensuring the flour and spices cover the bottom of the pan without burning.
4. Pour the tomato sauce and beef broth into the pan and stir thoroughly, making sure to scrape and dissolve any browned bits from the bottom.
5. Add the uncooked macaroni and combine well. Cover the pan with a lid and increase the heat to medium-high. Let the broth reach a full boil. Once boiling, stir the pasta briefly to dislodge any that is stuck to the bottom, lower the heat to medium-low, and cover with the lid again.
6. Let the macaroni simmer, stirring occasionally and always replacing the lid, until the pasta is tender and the broth has thickened into a rich red sauce (about 10 minutes).
7. Mix half of the shredded cheddar into the sauce until it melts, and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Cover the pot with a lid, turn off the heat, and let the residual heat melt the cheese on top. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
1. For a richer flavor, you can substitute beef broth with chicken broth if desired.
2. If you prefer a thicker sauce, let the dish simmer uncovered for a few additional minutes to reduce the liquid.
3. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth.
4. To avoid clumping, ensure you stir the pasta occasionally while simmering, especially if using a different pasta shape.
Chili Mac: A Comforting Classic
Chili Mac holds a special place in my heart. This dish is the epitome of comfort food, and the mere aroma wafting through the kitchen brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings. The magic of Chili Mac lies in its simplicity and the way it brings people together around the table. With hearty ground beef, flavorful spices, and the comforting texture of macaroni, it’s a dish that everyone loves. The best part? You don’t need to be a culinary expert to whip up this classic. My journey with Chili Mac began when I was just a child, watching my mom effortlessly combine ingredients into a pot of pure joy. Now, it’s my turn to share this beloved recipe with you, so let’s dive into the world of Chili Mac and discover why it has become a staple in so many homes.
Getting Started with Chili Mac
Fundamentals
To create a memorable Chili Mac, understanding the fundamentals is key. At its core, this dish combines the hearty richness of chili with the tender embrace of macaroni. It’s a match made in culinary heaven, providing both flavor and texture. We start with a yellow onion, which adds a subtle sweetness, and garlic cloves that infuse the dish with aromatic depth. Olive oil serves as the base, perfectly complementing the savory notes of ground beef. The addition of spices like chili powder and smoked paprika elevates the dish, creating a warm and inviting flavor profile. Tomato sauce and beef broth bring the ingredients together, forming a luscious sauce that coats each pasta piece. The final touch is the melted cheddar cheese, adding a creamy finish that ties everything together.
For more inspiration on comforting meals, explore our Cozy Weeknight Dinners and discover how to transform everyday ingredients into something special. If you’re a fan of nostalgic desserts, our Nostalgic Desserts section will take you on a sweet trip down memory lane.
Preparation/Setup
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s important to set up your workspace. Gather all the ingredients: one yellow onion, two garlic cloves, olive oil, ground beef, all-purpose flour, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried oregano, tomato sauce, beef broth, macaroni, and shredded cheddar. Having everything within reach makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. Chop the onion and garlic, preparing them for their starring role in the pan. This step ensures that the flavors meld beautifully, creating a harmonious base for your Chili Mac. A large deep pan or Dutch oven is ideal for this recipe, allowing enough space for all the ingredients to mingle and create magic.
As you prepare, consider checking out our Seasonal Ingredients guide to enhance your culinary experience. Additionally, our Kitchen Tips section offers practical advice for home cooks.
Chili Mac Cooking Techniques
Technique
Cooking Chili Mac is a delightful process that involves layering flavors to create a comforting masterpiece. Begin by heating olive oil in your pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, allowing them to soften and release their aromatic essence. This forms the foundation of your dish, setting the stage for the rich flavors to come. Once the onions turn translucent, it’s time to introduce the ground beef. Stir and cook until the beef is fully browned, which enhances the savory depth of the dish. If your beef has a higher fat content, consider draining the excess fat before proceeding.
For those interested in exploring more flavor-packed recipes, visit our Flavor Explosions section. Additionally, our Culinary Adventures page offers a world of inspiration for curious cooks.
Tips and Tricks
Achieving the perfect consistency and flavor in your Chili Mac requires a few expert tips. Once the beef is browned, sprinkle in the flour, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and oregano. Stir continuously for about two minutes to ensure the spices and flour coat the bottom of the pan without burning.
This step is crucial for building a robust flavor base. Next, pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth, stirring thoroughly to dissolve any browned bits at the bottom. This adds depth to the sauce and ensures every bite is packed with flavor. Add the uncooked macaroni, covering the pan with a lid. Bring the broth to a full boil before stirring the pasta to prevent sticking. Lower the heat and let it simmer until the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens.
For more kitchen wisdom, explore our Cooking Hacks section. If you’re curious about mastering different techniques, our Culinary Skills page offers valuable insights.
Optimizing Your Chili Mac Experience
Perfecting Results
To perfect your Chili Mac, focus on balancing flavors and textures. Once the pasta reaches the desired tenderness and the sauce thickens, incorporate half of the shredded cheddar into the mixture. Stir until the cheese melts, creating a creamy, luscious sauce. This step adds richness and ensures every bite is a cheesy delight. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, cover the pot, and let the residual heat melt the cheese. This final touch creates a delightful cheese crust that elevates the dish to new heights. Serve your Chili Mac hot, allowing the flavors to shine in every forkful.
For more insights on crafting perfect dishes, visit our Perfect Dishes page. If troubleshooting is needed, our Kitchen Fixes section offers solutions to common cooking challenges.
Troubleshooting & Variations
While Chili Mac is a straightforward dish, a few troubleshooting tips can enhance your cooking experience. If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of beef broth to reach the desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes. For a personalized touch, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or corn for added color and nutrition. These variations can elevate the dish while maintaining its comforting essence. Remember, cooking is about creativity and adapting recipes to suit your preferences.
Explore more recipe variations in our Recipe Variations section. If you’re looking to experiment with flavors, our Flavor Experiments page is the perfect place to start. Seafood lovers will enjoy this irresistible garlic butter shrimp recipe that’s both quick and packed with flavor.
Serving Your Chili Mac Masterpiece
Serving and Presentation
The joy of Chili Mac extends beyond its taste—presentation plays a key role in enhancing the dining experience. Serve your Chili Mac in bowls, allowing the vibrant red sauce and melted cheese to take center stage. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and added freshness. Pair the dish with a simple green salad or crusty bread to complement the rich flavors. This thoughtful presentation elevates the meal, making it perfect for both casual family dinners and gatherings with friends.
For more serving ideas, explore our Plating Tips section. If you’re curious about pairing options, our Delicious Pairings page offers a variety of suggestions to enhance your meal.
Pairings and Storage
Chili Mac pairs beautifully with a range of side dishes and beverages. A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy pasta. For beverages, consider serving iced tea or a light lemonade to cleanse the palate. When it comes to storage, Chili Mac is a fantastic make-ahead dish. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth to maintain the creamy consistency. This makes meal prep a breeze, ensuring you can enjoy your Chili Mac whenever the craving strikes.
For more inspiration on meal planning and storage, explore our Meal Prep section. If you’re interested in discovering more about preserving flavors, our Flavor Preservation page offers valuable insights.
Conclusion
Chili Mac is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful journey of flavors and memories. Its comforting essence and simplicity make it a cherished dish for all occasions. From the aromatic sauté of onions and garlic to the gooey melted cheese on top, every step brings joy and satisfaction. This recipe not only nourishes the body but also creates moments of togetherness and nostalgia. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply yourself, Chili Mac promises to deliver a heartwarming experience with every bite. Embrace the magic of Chili Mac and let it become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
