Cheesy Beef Chili Mac: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Name: Cheesy Beef Chili Mac
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped; 1 lb ground beef (lean); 28 oz crushed canned tomatoes; 14 oz red kidney beans, drained; 2.5 cups beef broth (or chicken broth); 8 oz elbow macaroni pasta, uncooked; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or tasty cheese); 0.25 cup finely chopped coriander/cilantro; 0.5 tsp cayenne pepper or chili powder; 2 tsp paprika powder; 2 tsp cumin powder; 1.5 tsp onion powder (or garlic powder); 1 tsp dried oregano; 0.5 tsp black pepper; 1.25 tsp salt

Introduction to Cheesy Beef Chili Mac

Cheesy Beef Chili Mac is the perfect dish for those cozy nights when you crave something hearty and flavorful. This comforting meal combines the richness of cheesy goodness with the warmth of chili, all enveloped in tender macaroni. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just for yourself, this one-pot wonder is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for cooks of all ages.

A Personal Story Behind My Cheesy Beef Chili Mac Journey

Growing up, family meals were a big part of our lives, and chili mac was a staple at our dinner table. My mom would whip up a batch whenever we had a busy week, and the aroma that filled our home was simply irresistible. It became a comforting reminder of home, and now I enjoy making it for my family, just as my mom did for us. This recipe brings back those warm memories while creating new ones with every bite.

What Makes This Cheesy Beef Chili Mac Recipe Special?

This Cheesy Beef Chili Mac recipe is special because it brings together a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The ground beef adds a savory depth, while the crushed tomatoes provide a rich sauce that coats the elbow macaroni beautifully. The homemade chili powder gives it a kick that can be adjusted to your taste, making it customizable for everyone at the table. Plus, the gooey melted cheese on top? That’s the ultimate finishing touch that transforms this dish into a comforting delight.

The Full Cheesy Beef Chili Mac Recipe

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 onion, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 lb ground beef (lean)
28 oz crushed canned tomatoes
14 oz red kidney beans, drained
2 1/2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
8 oz elbow macaroni pasta, uncooked
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or tasty cheese)
1/4 cup finely chopped coriander/cilantro
Spices (Homemade Chili Powder):
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper or chili powder
- 2 tsp paprika powder
- 2 tsp cumin powder
- 1 1/2 tsp onion powder (or garlic powder)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over high heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the chopped red bell pepper and continue cooking until the onion is translucent. Tip: Stir frequently to prevent burning.
Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Brown the beef until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.

Once the beef is browned, stir in the crushed tomatoes, drained kidney beans, beef broth, uncooked elbow macaroni, and all the spices from the homemade chili powder. Tip: Make sure to mix well to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium.
Cover the pot and cook for 12 minutes. Check periodically, stirring occasionally, until the macaroni is al dente (slightly firm to the bite). The mixture should be saucy but not overly liquidy.
Turn off the stove but leave the pot on the burner. Stir in half of the shredded cheese until it becomes a bit saucy. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Top with the remaining cheese, cover with a lid, and let it sit for about 2 minutes until the cheese melts. Tip: This resting time helps thicken the sauce.

Sprinkle with chopped coriander or cilantro before serving, if desired, and enjoy hot!

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Cheesy Beef Chili Mac

This Cheesy Beef Chili Mac is delicious on its own, but there are plenty of ways to enhance your meal! Serve it with a side of crusty garlic bread or a fresh green salad to balance the richness. For those who enjoy a little heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. If you’re looking to make this dish vegetarian, you can replace the ground beef with lentils or additional beans, and it will still be just as tasty. Feel free to get creative with your toppings too; sour cream, diced avocados, or even more cheese can take this dish to the next level!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Beef Chili Mac

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chili mac and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen it up.

Can I freeze Cheesy Beef Chili Mac?
Absolutely! After cooking, let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add more heat, simply increase the amount of cayenne pepper or chili powder according to your preference. You can also add diced green chilies for an extra kick!

Are there any substitutions for the cheese?
While cheddar and Monterey Jack are recommended, feel free to use any cheese you enjoy, like pepper jack for a spicier version or mozzarella for a milder, gooey texture.

Recipe Stats

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories per Serving: 450
Servings: 6