Easy Delicious Chili Mac and Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Meal

When it comes to easy weeknight dinners that are both hearty and satisfying, nothing quite beats the classic combo of chili and mac and cheese. Imagine creamy, cheesy macaroni mingling with a spicy, flavorful chili — all baked together in one pot for minimal cleanup and maximum comfort. This budget-friendly recipe is a lifesaver on busy nights when you want healthy comfort food that doesn’t skimp on taste or warmth.

Chili Mac and Cheese is that ultimate quick family meal that everyone loves, from kids to adults. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting game day, this dish hits the spot every time. It’s packed with protein and flavor, and can be customized to fit your spice preference, dietary needs, or ingredient availability. Plus, it freezes beautifully, making it one of the best meal prep plans you can add to your routine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe marries the richness of creamy macaroni and cheese with the bold spices of chili, delivering a satisfying high protein meal with tons of flavor.

It’s a one-pot wonder (plus a quick bake), so cleanup is a breeze — perfect for busy families or those who want to spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying dinner.

With just about 30 minutes to table, it’s an excellent choice for easy high protein high calorie meals that fuel your day without fuss.

This dish is incredibly versatile — swap ground beef for turkey, plant-based meat, or skip meat entirely for a vegetarian version.

It’s also kid-friendly and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making it a go-to for gatherings or healthy boxed meals on the go.

What Makes This Recipe Special?

The secret to this Chili Mac and Cheese lies in layering flavors. The chili base is deeply seasoned with chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika — warming spices that build complexity without overpowering.

Using sharp cheddar cheese and a creamy homemade cheese sauce gives the macaroni the perfect luscious texture, balancing the chili’s spice.

Cooking the pasta just to al dente ensures it doesn’t get mushy after baking — maintaining a great bite.

Adding beans not only boosts protein but adds heartiness and fiber, making this a well-rounded protein meal plan staple.

Topping it with jalapeños, cilantro, or sour cream lets you tailor each serving, adding fresh brightness or extra heat as desired.

Ingredients

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• 300 g elbow macaroni or small pasta shells
• 500 g ground beef or turkey
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• 400 g canned diced tomatoes
• 400 g canned kidney or black beans, drained and rinsed
• 240 ml beef or chicken broth
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 200 g sharp cheddar cheese, grated (plus extra for topping)
• 120 ml milk (whole or low-fat)
• 2 tbsp flour
• 2 tbsp butter
• Optional toppings: sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, sour cream

How to Make It Step-by-Step

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground meat, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add chopped onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until soft. Stir in minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, cooking for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Mix in diced tomatoes, beans, broth, and tomato paste. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5–7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

Meanwhile, in a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring until smooth and thickened.

Add grated cheddar cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine cooked pasta, chili mixture, and cheese sauce in a large bowl or casserole dish, gently stirring to coat everything evenly.

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle extra cheddar cheese on top.

Bake for 20–25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Top with jalapeños, cilantro, or sour cream as desired for added flavor and freshness.

Tips for Best Results

Don’t overcook the pasta — al dente is key since it will bake further in the oven.

Drain excess fat after browning meat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.

Use sharp cheddar for a more flavorful and melty cheese sauce.

Add a splash of broth or milk when reheating leftovers to bring back creaminess.

Feel free to adjust the spice level with extra chili powder or hot sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions & Variations

Ground turkey or chicken work great for a lighter version.

Swap cheddar with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a milder or spicier kick.

Make it vegetarian by skipping meat and adding extra beans or lentils.

Add diced bell peppers, corn, or jalapeños into the chili for extra veggies and texture.

Top with crushed tortilla chips or crispy fried onions for crunch.

For a keto meal plan version, swap pasta for cauliflower rice or shirataki noodles.

Serving Suggestions

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Serve this chili mac and cheese with a simple green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette.

Garlic bread or crusty rolls are perfect for mopping up the cheesy chili sauce.

Roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts complement the rich flavors and add nutrition.

For meals for two delivered vibes, plate with fresh avocado slices and a squeeze of lime.

Pairing Ideas (Drinks, Sides, etc.)

A cold beer, like a lager or pale ale, pairs wonderfully with the chili’s spices.

Iced tea or lemonade offers a refreshing non-alcoholic contrast.

Creamy coleslaw or a crisp cucumber salad provide a crunchy, cooling side.

Serve with jalapeño cornbread for a Southern-inspired twist.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months — just thaw overnight.

Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen.

Stir well to restore creaminess and heat evenly.

Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips

You can assemble the chili mac and cheese a day ahead and refrigerate before baking.

Prepare chili sauce and cheese sauce in advance for best meal prep plans.

Freeze unbaked portions for convenient premade lunch meals during busy weeks.

Add toppings fresh after reheating to maintain texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t skip draining excess fat after browning meat, or the dish may become greasy.

Avoid overcooking pasta before baking — it should still have a firm bite.

Be careful not to over-salt — the cheese and broth add plenty of saltiness.

Make sure to stir gently when combining to keep the pasta intact.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use different pasta shapes?
Yes! Small shells, penne, or rotini all work well.

Can I skip beans?
Absolutely, for a more classic mac and cheese feel.

Is this dish very spicy?
Not as written; add hot sauce or cayenne if you like more heat.

Can I prepare this ahead?
Yes, it reheats beautifully and can be frozen.

What cheese melts best?
Sharp cheddar is ideal, but a blend works great too.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and verify all other ingredients are gluten-free.

What sides go well?
Try green salad, garlic bread, or roasted veggies.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger baking dish and stir well while cooking.

Cooking Tools You’ll Need

Large skillet for chili base

Saucepan for cheese sauce

Colander for draining pasta

Baking dish for final bake

Cutting board and knife

Measuring cups and spoons

Wooden spoon or spatula

Chili Mac and Cheese is the perfect blend of high protein pre made meals and healthy comfort food that fits perfectly in your weekly dinner lineup. It’s flavorful, filling, and easy to make — ideal for meal planning chicken lovers and healthy meal plans for two alike.

If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to save it on Pinterest or share it with a friend!