One Pan Chili Mac

This easy Chili Mac Skillet recipe is a comforting classic that effortlessly combines the hearty flavors of chili with the creamy goodness of macaroni and cheese. It’s a quick, budget-friendly, and incredibly satisfying meal, making it an absolute lifesaver for those hectic weeknights. If you’re anything like me, you appreciate a delicious dinner that comes together without a fuss, especially one that guarantees clean plates and happy faces from even the pickiest eaters in your family. This Chili Mac Skillet isn’t just a meal; it’s a nostalgic journey back to childhood, promising a taste of home and happiness in every spoonful.

The appeal of this Chili Mac Skillet recipe lies in its beautiful fusion of two beloved comfort food staples: savory chili and cheesy macaroni. It’s a true family favorite, delivering a hearty, flavorful experience that’s both familiar and exciting. As a busy parent, I especially appreciate how quickly and easily it comes together, often requiring minimal cleanup. This economical meal is a definite win in my household, offering maximum flavor with minimal effort.

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Revisiting a Childhood Favorite: The Evolution of My Chili Mac Recipe

Growing up, Chili Macaroni was a constant presence at our dinner table, a cherished dish my mom prepared frequently. For years, I faithfully recreated her recipe, which relied heavily on a specific ingredient: Campbell’s Chili Beef Soup. It was the secret weapon, giving our cheesy chili mac its distinctive flavor that we all adored. Then, a culinary crisis struck – the soup was discontinued. I was convinced that without it, the magic of our family-favorite Chili Mac was lost forever. I pondered, “How could it possibly taste the same? Why even bother trying?”

It was my mom, the original Chili Mac maestro, who gently guided me back. She revealed that she had transitioned to using canned chili as a base for her chili mac and cheese. This came as quite a surprise to me, as I’ve always made my chili from scratch and had never once considered buying a can of it. Intrigued, and with a dash of skepticism, I decided to give her new approach a try.

I started with a can of chili, but couldn’t resist adding my own touch. A bit of cayenne pepper for warmth and some extra chili seasoning to boost the flavor, tailoring it to our family’s preferences. The moment of truth arrived when the kids rushed in for dinner. Their eyes lit up, and they exclaimed, “This stuff? *I REMEMBER THIS!* – You haven’t made this in a long time!” Hearing those words, seeing their genuine excitement, brought a huge “Big Mama Grin” to my face. It was a reminder that some culinary traditions are resilient and adaptable, and that the true joy of cooking often lies in sharing those cherished flavors, no matter how they’ve evolved.

Homemade Chili Macaroni: From Scratch or Canned, Always Delicious

While my initial foray into adapting the Chili Mac recipe involved canned chili, I often find myself opting for my rich and flavorful homemade chili instead. There’s something undeniably satisfying about crafting the chili from scratch, especially when it features my critically acclaimed Chili Recipe, enhanced by my signature Homemade Chili Seasoning. The depth of flavor that homemade chili brings to the macaroni is truly unparalleled. It allows for complete control over the spice levels and ingredients, ensuring a personalized and incredibly fresh taste.

However, the beauty of this Chili Mac Skillet recipe is its flexibility. Whether you choose to simmer a batch of your own chili or reach for a convenient can, the end result is consistently delicious and comforting. For busy nights, a quality canned chili serves as an excellent shortcut, drastically cutting down on prep time without sacrificing much flavor, especially if you doctor it up a bit with additional seasonings as I do. No matter your preference or schedule, you are guaranteed to enjoy this simple yet sensational dish. It’s about creating a warm, satisfying meal that brings everyone to the table, and this recipe delivers every time.

Creative Uses for Leftover Chili: Beyond the Bowl

Whenever I embark on making a batch of chili, I intentionally prepare a generous amount. This isn’t just because chili is universally loved in my home, but also because I’ve discovered countless delicious ways to repurpose the leftovers. Having extra chili on hand is like having a secret weapon in the kitchen, ready to transform into another fantastic meal with minimal effort. While Chili Macaroni is undoubtedly one of my top choices for leftover chili, there’s a whole world of culinary possibilities waiting to be explored. Here are some of my other favorite ways to transform leftover chili:

Copy Cat Wendy’s Original Taco Salad: Layered with fresh lettuce, crunchy tortilla chips, cheese, and a dollop of sour cream, leftover chili makes for an incredibly flavorful and substantial taco salad. It’s a healthier and refreshing way to enjoy chili.
The Best Chili Cheese Dogs: There’s nothing quite like a classic chili cheese dog. Simply warm up your leftover chili and spoon it generously over grilled hot dogs, then top with shredded cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of onions. It’s a crowd-pleaser for all ages!
Chili Cheese Bean Dip: (pictured above) This is a fantastic appetizer for parties or game nights. Combine leftover chili with cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and a layer of refried beans, then bake until bubbly and serve with tortilla chips. It’s rich, cheesy, and utterly addictive.
Spicy Grilled Cheese Chili Dogs: Elevate your grilled cheese experience by adding a thin layer of chili and a hot dog, then grilling it to golden perfection. The combination of crispy bread, melted cheese, and savory chili is truly special.
Smokey Chili Potato Bites: For a delicious snack or side, stuff baked potato halves or crispy potato skins with chili and cheese, then bake until golden. These bites are hearty and full of flavor, perfect for any occasion.

These ideas demonstrate just how versatile a good batch of chili can be, ensuring that none of your delicious homemade efforts ever go to waste. Repurposing leftovers not only saves time but also adds exciting variety to your weekly meal rotation.

Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Chili Mac Skillet

Crafting a truly satisfying Chili Mac Skillet begins with selecting the right ingredients. This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, but here’s a breakdown of the core components and why they work so well. You’ll find the complete list of ingredients and detailed instructions conveniently located in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post, ready for your culinary adventure.

Ground beef: I prefer lean ground beef for a less greasy skillet, but feel free to use regular ground beef if you like. For a lighter, healthier alternative, ground turkey or even ground chicken work exceptionally well, offering a different flavor profile without compromising on the heartiness of the dish.
Onion: A finely diced white onion provides a foundational aromatic layer, adding sweetness and depth to the chili base. However, yellow onions, red onions, or even shallots, chopped small, will also infuse your dish with delicious flavor.
Chili powder: This spice is non-negotiable for authentic chili flavor. It’s a blend of various spices like cumin, paprika, and oregano, giving our Chili Mac its characteristic warmth and zest. Adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning, these pantry staples allow you to fine-tune the flavor of your dish to perfection. Always taste and adjust as you go!
Tomato soup + 1/2 soup can of water: This combination creates a creamy, rich, and slightly tangy sauce that binds all the ingredients together beautifully. It adds a subtle sweetness and a smooth texture that’s distinctive to this particular recipe.
Chili with beans: This is where convenience truly shines. A 15-ounce can of prepared chili (with or without beef) provides an instant flavor base. If you have homemade chili on hand, that’s an even better option for a deeper, more robust taste.
Pinto beans: Canned pinto beans, thoroughly rinsed and drained, contribute a wonderfully creamy texture and earthy flavor to the dish. They add bulk and a good source of fiber. If pinto beans aren’t your favorite, kidney beans or black beans make excellent substitutes, each bringing their own unique character.
Elbow macaroni: The classic choice for Chili Mac! Its small, curved shape is perfect for holding onto the rich chili sauce and melted cheese. Make sure to cook your macaroni noodles al dente – slightly firm – as they will continue to cook briefly in the skillet, preventing them from becoming mushy.
American cheese: This melty cheese is the secret to that classic, gooey, diner-style Chili Mac texture. It melts seamlessly and creates a wonderfully creamy finish. For a sharper flavor, cheddar cheese is a fantastic substitute. If you prefer a little kick, pepper jack cheese adds a pleasant heat. For those with dairy allergies or following a vegan diet, a high-quality vegan cheese alternative can be used effectively.

How to Cook This Ultimate Chili Mac Skillet Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating this delightful Chili Mac Skillet is a straightforward process, designed for efficiency and maximum flavor. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a hearty, comforting meal ready in no time.

First things first, begin by preparing your pasta. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions, ensuring it reaches an al dente consistency. This is crucial because the pasta will continue to absorb liquid and cook slightly further when combined with the chili mixture. Once cooked, rinse the macaroni under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent it from sticking, then set it aside.

Meanwhile, as your pasta cooks, heat a large, sturdy skillet over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef and diced onion to the hot pan. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spoon or a meat chopper, until the ground beef is fully browned and the onion is softened and translucent. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, it’s important to drain any excess drippings from the skillet. This step prevents the final dish from becoming too greasy and allows the flavors of the chili to shine through.

Now it’s time to build the chili base. To the browned beef and onion in the skillet, add the chili powder, tomato soup, water, canned chili, and drained pinto beans. Stir all these ingredients together thoroughly, ensuring everything is well combined and heated through. Taste the mixture at this point and season with salt and pepper to your preference. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away, so start with a modest amount.

Once your chili mixture is simmering gently, gently fold in the cooked macaroni. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the rich, flavorful chili. Reduce the heat to low, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully without overcooking the pasta.

For the grand finale, generously top the entire Chili Mac with slices of American cheese. The key to that irresistible gooey texture is to cover the skillet with a lid. Allow the cheese to melt slowly and completely over the low heat, creating a blanket of creamy, delicious goodness. This usually takes just a few minutes, so keep an eye on it.

Once the cheese has fully melted and is perfectly bubbly, give it a final gentle stir to incorporate some of that cheesy goodness throughout the macaroni. Your spectacular Chili Mac Skillet is now ready to be served hot, directly from the skillet. It’s a truly comforting and satisfying meal that will bring smiles to everyone at the table.

While this Chili Mac Skillet is absolutely delicious on its own, adding a garnish can elevate both its presentation and flavor. Fresh green onions, finely chopped scallions, or delicate chives offer a mild oniony crunch and a pop of color, brightening up the rich dish.

For those who enjoy a fresh, vibrant herb, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro is also a wonderful topping that complements the chili flavors beautifully. But honestly, even served plain, this Chili Mac is a showstopper, a testament to its inherent deliciousness and comforting appeal.

Love This Recipe? Don’t Forget to Pin It!

If this simple yet incredibly satisfying Chili Mac Skillet has captured your heart, make sure you don’t lose track of this fantastic recipe! Pin it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board before you go. This ensures you’ll always have this quick, easy, and family-approved meal idea at your fingertips whenever hunger strikes or a busy weeknight calls for a reliable dinner solution. Share the love and save this gem for later!

Your Top Chili Mac FAQs Answered

Have questions about Chili Mac? We’ve got answers! Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about this beloved comfort food, helping you master this easy recipe.

What exactly is Chili Mac? At its core, Chili Mac is a delicious fusion dish that marries the rich, savory flavors of chili with the creamy, satisfying texture of macaroni. This classic recipe typically features ground beef, a robust tomato-based sauce, tender macaroni, and plenty of melted cheese, making it a hearty and filling meal. It’s incredibly versatile, allowing for either homemade chili and macaroni or the convenience of prepared, store-bought components.
What distinguishes chili from goulash? While both chili and goulash often incorporate ground beef and pasta, they hail from different culinary traditions and possess distinct flavor profiles. Chili is characterized by its bold, often spicy, Mexican-inspired flavors, typically including beans and ingredients like chili powder, cumin, and sometimes bell peppers. Goulash, on the other hand, is a Hungarian-originated stew that usually features paprika as its dominant spice and often includes vegetables like onions and carrots, but traditionally does not contain beans or the same spice blend as chili.
Is Chili Mac a regional dish, particularly associated with the Midwest? Yes, Chili Mac enjoys significant popularity throughout the Midwestern United States. It’s considered a quintessential comfort food in this region, cherished for its hearty nature and ability to satisfy a hungry crowd. While you can find variations of chili and pasta dishes across the country, the specific combination and popularity of “Chili Mac” as a standalone dish are particularly strong in the Midwest.
Can I make Chili Mac ahead of time? Absolutely! Chili Mac is an excellent make-ahead meal. You can prepare the entire dish and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the oven, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick. It reheats beautifully, often tasting even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld.

Customizing Your Chili Mac: Easy Substitutions and Flavorful Variations

One of the best aspects of this Chili Mac Skillet recipe is its inherent flexibility, allowing you to easily adapt it to your preferences, dietary needs, or whatever ingredients you happen to have on hand. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own!

When it comes to beans, you have plenty of options. Any kind of bean will work beautifully in this recipe, or you can even omit them entirely for a bean-free, hearty meal. Black beans will lend an earthier, richer flavor, while cannellini beans offer a softer, creamier texture. Even chickpeas could be a surprising, delicious addition for a different twist.

If elbow macaroni isn’t available, don’t fret! The great thing about this dish is that almost any small to medium pasta shape will work. Consider using rotini, penne, cavatappi, or even small shells. These shapes are excellent at catching and holding the rich chili sauce and melted cheese. Just steer clear of long, thin pasta shapes like spaghetti or fettuccine, as they tend to tangle and aren’t ideal for a skillet-based, spoonable dish like this.

For the tomato base, while tomato soup creates a unique creamy texture, you can certainly experiment with alternatives. Instead of tomato soup, try using a can of plain tomato sauce for a simpler, less sweet flavor. Alternatively, a combination of tomato sauce, a splash of water, and a tablespoon of tomato paste can create a richer, more concentrated tomato flavor. Be aware that the taste and consistency will differ slightly from the original recipe, offering a more robust tomato profile.

To sneak in an extra veggie boost, consider adding some whole-kernel corn to the chili mixture. Whether you use fresh, frozen (no need to thaw), or canned (drained) corn, it will add a pleasant sweetness, texture, and a touch of color to your Chili Mac. Diced bell peppers (red, green, or yellow) or even a handful of spinach can also be folded in during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients and flavor.

Pro Tips & Tricks for Chili Mac Skillet Success

Achieving the perfect Chili Mac Skillet is easy with a few insider tips. These suggestions will help you make this already simple recipe even more convenient and delicious, ensuring a satisfying meal every time.

**Smart Chili Strategy:** Leverage either leftover homemade chili or your favorite canned chili, depending on your schedule and preference. If you’re planning to make homemade chili, consider making a double batch! You can enjoy half for dinner that night and then freeze the other half for later. This way, you’ll have a ready-to-go chili base for your next Chili Mac Skillet whenever the craving hits, saving you significant time on a busy weeknight.

**Boost the Heartiness:** If you desire an even heartier and chunkier chili mac, don’t hesitate to add extra beans. A second can of pinto, kidney, or black beans will significantly increase the dish’s volume and fiber content, making it even more satisfying.

**Add a Veggie Punch:** For an extra nutritional boost and a pop of color, throw in some finely diced red bell peppers when you’re sautéing the onions and ground beef. They’ll soften nicely and add a subtle sweetness and crispness that complements the chili beautifully. Other great additions include zucchini, carrots, or even a handful of chopped kale stirred in at the end.

**Adjust the Spice:** If you enjoy a spicier kick, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the chili mixture. For a milder version, simply stick to the chili powder amount in the recipe, or reduce it slightly. Taste as you go to get the perfect level of heat for your family.

Of course, the BEST thing about this Chili Mac Skillet recipe is undeniably its incredible taste – it’s pure comfort food bliss. But as a busy parent, I equally adore its ease and efficiency. As I mentioned, it can be as simple as opening a couple of cans or utilizing delicious leftovers. What truly makes it a weeknight hero is that this complete, satisfying meal comes together in less than 30 minutes of active cooking time. It’s truly a win-win for flavor and convenience!

Embrace the Ease of 30-Minute Meals

30-minute meals are an absolute staple in my kitchen, and for good reason! While this Chili Mac Skillet isn’t strictly a “one-pan” meal since the pasta needs to be cooked separately, it’s incredibly close. Once all the components are combined in that single skillet, you can serve it directly from the pan, saving you precious cleanup time. What’s even better? The leftovers are simply incredible the next day, making it perfect for packed lunches or another quick dinner. Skillet meals, in general, are true weeknight saviors and my go-to for busy evenings.

Beyond this fantastic Chili Mac, my personal rotation of easy weeknight dinners includes these reliable favorites:

Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Skillet: All the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls, simplified into a quick and easy skillet format.
Skillet Lasagna: (pictured above) A truly impressive one-pan wonder that delivers all the layers and cheesy goodness of classic lasagna without the hassle.
Stuffed Pepper Skillet: A deconstructed version of stuffed peppers, bursting with flavor and ready in a fraction of the time.
Kielbasa Fried Rice: A hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for using up leftover rice and comes together incredibly fast.
Skillet Red Beans and Rice: A New Orleans-inspired classic, made easy in a single skillet, rich in flavor and wonderfully comforting.
Beef & Rice Skillet Meal: A simple, satisfying dish that combines ground beef and rice with savory seasonings for a complete meal.

What are your go-to speedy meals? Share your favorites and let’s all make busy weeknights a little easier and a lot more delicious!

Truly, the most remarkable aspect of this Chili Mac is its irresistible taste – a perfect symphony of rich chili and creamy cheese that defines comfort food. However, as a bustling parent, I deeply appreciate its incredible simplicity. As I’ve highlighted, this dish can be as effortless as cracking open a couple of cans or ingeniously utilizing your leftovers. The best part? The entire meal, from start to finish, is ready on your table in under 30 minutes, making it an undeniable winner for any busy schedule.

Now, let’s gather our ingredients and make some mouth-watering Chili Macaroni!

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Chili Mac in a bowl with a yellow napkin along the side

Print Recipe

Chili Mac Skillet

This Chili Mac Skillet is a quick and inexpensive meal. Macaroni, ground beef, pinto beans, canned or your own leftover chili and cheese. A childhood family favorite!

Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 30 mins | Total Time: 40 mins

Course: Pasta | Cuisine: American | Keyword: canned chili, cheese, Chili mac and cheese, Chili Mac Skillet, Chili Macaroni, leftover chili, macaroni, one pan meal

Servings: 8 servings | Calories: 384 kcal | Author: Michaela Kenkel

Equipment

Stainless Steel Pasta Cooker Steamer Multipots, 12 Quart, Silver
12-Piece Black Sharp Knife Set with Covers, Cutting Board and Sharpener
Meat Chopper, 5 Curve Blades Ground Beef Chopper
Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet With Assist Handle, 10.25″, Black

Ingredients

1 pound lean ground beef
1/2 cup onion, chopped small
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt & Pepper, to taste
1 (10.75 oz) can tomato soup + 1/2 soup can water
1 (15 oz) can of chili with beans
1 (15 oz) can of Pinto beans, drained
1 pound elbow macaroni, cooked al dente
8 slices of American cheese

Instructions

Prepare pasta according to package instructions, rinse and set aside.
Meanwhile, brown ground beef with onion over medium-high heat. Drain any excess drippings.
Add chili powder, soup, water, chili, and beans. Stir. Salt and pepper to taste.
Fold in macaroni.
Turn heat down to low. Top with slices of American cheese, place lid on skillet until cheese melts. Serve hot.

Nutrition

This recipe was originally posted on May 18, 2015. It has been updated to improve user experience and re-shared on April 13, 2023.