Chamli Nawod 
There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of Chili Mac and Cheese to satisfy your comfort food cravings. This dish combines two beloved classics—creamy mac and cheese and spicy chili—into one irresistible meal. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal prepping for the week, or just indulging in some cheesy goodness, this recipe is a winner.
In this blog post, we’ll cover:
- What makes Chili Mac and Cheese so delicious
- Step-by-step instructions for making the best homemade version
- Tips for customizing the dish to your taste
- Storage and reheating tips
- Frequently asked questions
Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love Chili Mac and Cheese
Chili Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food mashup. It’s:
✔ Creamy & Cheesy – Loaded with gooey melted cheese and tender pasta.
✔ Spicy & Savory – Packed with bold chili flavors.
✔ Easy to Make – Uses simple ingredients and comes together in one pot.
✔ Versatile – Can be customized with different meats, cheeses, and spice levels.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, game day gatherings, or anytime you need a filling, flavorful meal.
Homemade Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chili:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey/chicken for a lighter option)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese
- 1 cup milk (whole or evaporated milk for extra creaminess)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp mustard powder (optional, for depth of flavor)
Optional Toppings:
- Sour cream
- Chopped green onions
- Jalapeños
- Crushed tortilla chips
- Extra shredded cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the macaroni and cook until al dente (about 8 minutes).
- Drain and set aside.
(Tip: You can also cook the pasta directly in the chili mixture with extra broth for a one-pot version!)
Step 2: Make the Chili
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beans, broth, and spices.
- Simmer for 10-15 minutes until thickened.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour to make a roux (cook for 1 minute).
- Slowly pour in milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
- Cook until slightly thickened, then stir in shredded cheeses until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Mix the cooked pasta into the chili.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the top and stir well.
- Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until everything is perfectly combined.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Top with your favorite garnishes (sour cream, green onions, etc.).
- Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy, spicy goodness!
Customization Ideas
One of the best things about Chili Mac and Cheese is how adaptable it is. Here are some fun twists:
Protein Variations
- Vegetarian: Swap beef for lentils or extra beans.
- Spicy: Use chorizo or add hot sauce.
- Smoky: Add crumbled bacon or smoked paprika.
Cheese Choices
- Extra Creamy: Add cream cheese or Velveeta.
- Spicy Kick: Use pepper jack or habanero cheddar.
Pasta Alternatives
- Gluten-free pasta
- Shells or cavatappi for extra texture
Extra Veggies
- Corn, zucchini, or mushrooms make great additions.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months (thaw before reheating).
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop with a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the meat first, then add all ingredients (except pasta and cheese sauce) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. Stir in cooked pasta and cheese sauce before serving.
2. How do I make it less spicy?
Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and use mild chili powder.
3. Can I use boxed mac and cheese?
Absolutely! Prepare the boxed mac and cheese as usual, then mix it with homemade or canned chili.
4. What’s the best cheese for melting?
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Colby melt beautifully. Avoid pre-shredded cheese (it contains anti-caking agents that make it less smooth).
Final Thoughts
Chili Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors. It’s easy to make, customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own twist, this dish is guaranteed to become a favorite.
Try it tonight and let us know how it turns out in the comments!
You Might Also Like:
- One-Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
- Spicy Beef Enchilada Casserole
- The Best Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe
Happy cooking! 🧀🔥
