If you are searching for a hearty, comforting, and flavor-packed meal to whip up on a busy weeknight, this Chili Mac Recipe is the perfect answer. Combining the creamy, cheesy goodness of deluxe mac and cheese with the spicy, rich flavors of chili, this dish is pure satisfaction in every bite. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels both nostalgic and exciting. Whether you’re feeding a big family or just craving something warm and filling, this Chili Mac Recipe is a delicious hug served in a bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Chili Mac Recipe comes down to straightforward, easy-to-find ingredients that each play a crucial role. From adding depth and spice with chili beans and seasoning, to delivering creamy texture with the cheese sauce, every component contributes to a perfectly balanced dish.
- Kraft Deluxe Mac & Cheese (24 oz family size): The star pasta and cheese combo that forms the creamy base of the dish.
- Lean ground beef (1 lb): Adds hearty protein and savory flavor while keeping the dish balanced.
- Yellow onion (1, finely diced): Brings sweetness and a bit of texture as it cooks down with the beef.
- Chili beans (1 can, 16 oz, undrained): Supplies that authentic chili taste and adds a nice bite of beans for extra heartiness.
- Mild Rotel (1 can, 10 oz, undrained): Introduces a mild tomato and pepper kick to lift the flavor profile.
- Mild chili seasoning packet (1): Ties everything together with warm spices, giving the dish that signature chili flavor.
How to Make Chili Mac Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the macaroni noodles following the package instructions found on the box of Kraft Deluxe Mac & Cheese. It’s important to save the foil packet of cheese sauce for later—it’s what brings the creamy texture this recipe is all about. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it thoroughly but avoid rinsing so the noodles retain their starch, which helps the sauce stick beautifully. Set the pasta aside for the next steps.
Step 2: Brown the Beef and Onions
Next up, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the lean ground beef along with the finely diced yellow onion. Cook and crumble the beef as it browns, making sure the onions soften and become translucent. This step not only develops rich flavors but also lays the base for the chili taste. When the beef is fully cooked and no longer pink, drain any excess grease so the dish stays balanced and not greasy.
Step 3: Combine Chili Ingredients and Pasta
With your beef and onions cooked to perfection, add the drained pasta, entire can of chili beans (undrained), the mild Rotel (with liquid), and the chili seasoning. Stir well to incorporate all the flavors and let the mixture simmer for about 5 to 8 minutes on medium heat. This simmering melds the vibrant, zesty chili elements with the pasta and beef, creating a symphony of taste.
Step 4: Add the Cheese Sauce
The moment that turns this dish into a creamy masterpiece is when you stir in the cheese sauce from the foil packet. Mix it thoroughly so every nook and cranny of pasta and chili is coated in cheesy goodness. At this stage, your Chili Mac Recipe is nearly ready to serve—rich, comforting, and full of bold flavors.
How to Serve Chili Mac Recipe
Garnishes
A great Chili Mac Recipe deserves thoughtful garnishes to elevate each serving. Adding a dollop of sour cream brings a cool creaminess that contrasts the warm chili spices perfectly. A sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese amplifies the cheesy flavor, while thinly sliced green onions give a crisp, fresh bite that brightens the dish.
Side Dishes
This Chili Mac pairs wonderfully with crisp side salads, such as a simple mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette, to cut through the richness. Crunchy garlic bread or cornbread make excellent options for soaking up every bit of cheesy chili sauce. For a lighter touch, roasted vegetables complement the depth of flavors brilliantly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Chili Mac Recipe in individual oven-safe ramekins topped with extra cheese, then bake until bubbly and golden. You can also try stuffing bell peppers or baked potatoes with this hearty mixture for a unique presentation that’s both impressive and delicious. It’s the kind of dish that invites you to get creative with how you serve it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your Chili Mac Recipe has cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days, making it a convenient and yummy option for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully, so you can make a big batch and save some for busy days. Portion the Chili Mac into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat the Chili Mac Recipe gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. You can add a splash of milk to refresh the creamy texture if it seems too thick. Microwaving is also an option, but stirring halfway through is key for even warmth.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this Chili Mac Recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe uses macaroni from the Kraft Deluxe Mac & Cheese box, you can substitute with elbow macaroni, shells, or even small rigatoni. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
How spicy is this Chili Mac Recipe?
This version is mild thanks to the use of mild chili seasoning and mild Rotel, making it approachable for all ages. If you love heat, you can easily add some cayenne pepper or use a spicy Rotel for an extra kick.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or add extra beans and vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms for a delicious veggie-packed Chili Mac Recipe that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
Is this recipe good for meal prepping?
Yes, this dish stores very well and tastes just as good reheated. Portion it out for quick lunches or dinners during a busy week. Just keep in mind to reheat thoroughly and add a splash of milk if it thickens too much.
What toppings work best beyond the classic garnishes?
Try topping with diced avocado for creaminess, pickled jalapeños for a tangy heat, or crushed tortilla chips to add a satisfying crunch. These extras bring new layers of flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
This Chili Mac Recipe is truly a comfort food champion, blending cheesy, savory, and mildly spicy elements into one satisfying dish you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, it’s the kind of meal that feels homemade and heartwarming every time. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and experience the cozy joy it delivers with each delicious bite!
Print
Chili Mac Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chili Mac recipe is a hearty, comforting meal that combines creamy Kraft Deluxe Mac & Cheese with savory ground beef, chili beans, and zesty Rotel tomatoes. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that brings together the flavors of chili and macaroni in one delicious skillet dish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 box (24 oz) Family Size Kraft Deluxe Mac & Cheese
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, finely diced
- 1 (16 oz) can chili beans (do not drain)
- 1 (10 oz) can mild Rotel (do not drain)
- 1 packet mild chili seasoning
Optional Toppings
- Sour cream, for serving
- Shredded cheddar cheese, for serving
- Thinly sliced green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the macaroni noodles from the box of deluxe mac & cheese according to the package instructions. Remember to save the foil packet of cheese sauce for later. Once cooked, drain the pasta but do not rinse it. Set aside for the next steps.
- Brown Beef and Onions: In a large skillet pan over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the ground beef along with the finely diced yellow onion. Continue cooking until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are soft. Drain any excess grease from the pan.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, the can of chili beans (with liquid), the can of mild Rotel tomatoes (with liquid), and the packet of mild chili seasoning to the skillet with the beef and onions. Stir everything together well and let the mixture cook for about 5-8 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Add Cheese Sauce: Pour in the cheese sauce from the foil packet that came with the macaroni and cheese box. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly and heat through.
- Serve: Serve the chili mac immediately. Optionally, top with sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and thinly sliced green onions for extra flavor and garnish.
Notes
- Do not rinse the cooked pasta after draining to retain starch that helps thicken the dish.
- Drain excess grease from the cooked beef to prevent the dish from being too oily.
- You can adjust the chili seasoning level to your taste preference by adding more or less.
- Optional toppings add extra creaminess and a fresh crunch but can be omitted for a simpler dish.
- This recipe reheats well and makes great leftovers.
