Description

Creamy Chili Mac is a comforting and hearty skillet dish featuring tender elbow macaroni combined with savory ground beef simmered in a spiced tomato sauce. Finished with melted cheddar cheese and sour cream for a luscious, creamy texture, this recipe offers a rich flavor and smooth consistency perfect for a quick dinner. Customizable with various proteins, veggies, and cheese options, it brings a crowd-pleasing taste of chili in an easy pasta meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

8 oz elbow macaroni

Meat and Aromatics

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced

Spices and Liquids

1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
1 cup beef broth or water
1 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Dairy

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream or cream cheese

Fats and Garnish

2 tbsp olive oil or butter
Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set it aside.
Sauté Onions & Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Brown the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat if needed.
Add Spices and Simmer: Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 more minute to toast the spices. Pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth, then stir everything together. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors can blend.
Make It Creamy: Reduce heat to low. Stir in the cooked macaroni, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream or cream cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce turns creamy and smooth.
Taste and Serve: Give the chili mac a quick taste and adjust the seasoning if you like. Serve it hot, optionally topped with fresh parsley or cilantro for a bright finish.

Notes

Elbow macaroni can be substituted with shells, rotini, or small penne based on preference.
Ground beef may be replaced with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Beans alone can be used as a meat-free alternative.
Smoked paprika can be swapped with regular paprika or a pinch of chipotle powder to maintain smoky flavor.
Sour cream can be substituted with cream cheese, Greek yogurt, or heavy cream for creaminess.
Cheddar cheese alternatives include Colby, Monterey Jack, or Mexican cheese blends.
Adding diced bell peppers, corn, chopped tomatoes, or jalapeños can enhance the vegetable content and spice level.
Frozen ground beef must be fully thawed overnight before cooking to ensure even browning and safety.
Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on stove or microwave while stirring occasionally.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Creamy Chili Mac, chili mac and cheese, ground beef pasta, creamy pasta dish, chili powder recipe, easy weeknight dinner, skillet chili mac, one-pot pasta