Irresistibly Easy Chili Mac Recipe That Will Rock Your Dinner Table

Chili Mac is more than just a cozy dish—it’s a savory, cheesy, one-pot miracle that brings together the best of two worlds: rich chili and creamy macaroni. At CookingFlash, About page, where comfort food meets creativity, this beloved classic reflects everything we stand for. Our journey began with a passion for simple, hearty meals that bring families together, just like the Chili Mac we’re about to explore. From our first recipe test in a tiny home kitchen to now sharing delicious dishes with food lovers around the world, we’ve always believed great food doesn’t need to be complicated—it needs to be memorable.

In this comprehensive guide, we’re diving into the heart of Chili Mac: what it is, why it’s become a favorite from home kitchens to military MREs, and how to make it unforgettable every single time. You’ll learn how to build layers of flavor from scratch using pantry staples, discover the secrets to keeping your pasta perfectly al dente, and explore fun, bold variations like vegetarian chili mac, easy chili mac with beans, and even clever uses for leftover chili.

We’ll also answer popular questions like “What’s the difference between goulash and Chili Mac?” and “Why did they discontinue Chili Mac?” while guiding you through everything from ingredient swaps to meal-prepping tips. And of course, we’re sharing our signature this recipe—packed with lean ground beef, homemade spice blend, melty cheese, and pasta that soaks up every drop of flavor.

Discover great ideas like one-pot cheeseburger macaroni while learning how to reinvent your favorite dishes with just a little twist of boldness and heart. So grab your skillet—it’s time to turn ordinary into extraordinary, one delicious scoop at a time.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

What is Chili Mac?

A Comfort Classic Reinvented

Chili Mac is the ultimate collision of two comfort food titans: chili and macaroni. Think hearty ground beef chili bubbling in a rich tomato-based sauce, seasoned with a custom blend of spices, then fused with tender elbow macaroni and melted cheese. It’s bold, filling, and seriously satisfying. Whether you’re cooking it on a weeknight or preparing it ahead for meal prep, this hybrid dish never fails to impress.

While traditional chili is all about the slow-simmered meat and beans, and macaroni brings that creamy, cheesy nostalgia, Chili Mac combines their best elements. The result? A one-skillet wonder that hits all the right notes—spicy, cheesy, and irresistibly cozy. It’s no surprise this dish has evolved into variations like easy chili mac, Chili Mac with beans, and even recipe in a can.

At CookingFlash, we’ve found this dish to be a universal favorite. It shows up in school lunches, game day spreads, and even in military field rations, like the famous recipe MRE. It’s adaptable and full of potential for creativity, whether you’re going all-out with homemade chili powder or tossing in leftover chili from last night’s dinner.

Chili Mac vs. Traditional Chili and Macaroni

If you’re wondering whether Chili Mac is just chili dumped on pasta, think again. There’s a method to the madness—and that’s where the magic lies. Traditional chili stands alone as a stew, often served with cornbread or rice. Macaroni and cheese, on the other hand, thrives in its creamy simplicity. But Chili Mac combines these two powerhouses into something that’s more than the sum of its parts.

Unlike chili, Chili Mac is less soupy and more cohesive, with the pasta cooking right in the broth and sauce, soaking up all those smoky, spicy, tomato-rich flavors. That means every bite is bursting with layered intensity—perfectly seasoned beef, chewy noodles, and gooey cheese.

It’s also faster. Instead of letting chili simmer for hours, easy recipes deliver full-on comfort in under 30 minutes. And because it’s made in one pot, cleanup is a breeze. Talk about a win-win.

In fact, fans of nostalgic boxed dinners like Chili Mac Hamburger Helper will love how a homemade version tastes fresher, richer, and far more satisfying. You control the ingredients, the spice, and the texture—making it your own.

Check out creamed cabbage ground beef casserole for another crowd-pleasing one-pot meal.

Why Chili Mac Is So Good?

Big Flavors from Everyday Ingredients

Chili Mac earns its loyal following for one reason: it delivers incredible flavor using simple, affordable ingredients. You don’t need anything fancy—just basic kitchen staples like ground beef, pasta, canned tomatoes, and shredded cheese. But when these everyday items come together, they create something truly crave-worthy.

The flavor starts building from the very first step. A quick sauté of chopped onions, minced garlic, and bell pepper in olive oil gives you a savory, fragrant base. As lean ground beef browns in the same pot, it absorbs that aromatic goodness, making every bite rich and meaty. Once you pour in the crushed tomatoes and kidney beans, you’ve got a chili-like sauce that’s thick, hearty, and loaded with body.

But here’s where Chili Mac sets itself apart—its bold, homemade spice mix. A blend of cumin, paprika, cayenne, oregano, and onion powder kicks the dish up a notch. The result is a deep, slightly smoky heat that complements the richness of the beef and cheese without overpowering the palate.

And then there’s the macaroni. Cooking the pasta directly in the chili base allows it to soak up all the savory juices. By the time you stir in that final handful of shredded cheese, everything melts together into a thick, luscious dish that’s impossible to stop eating. It’s no wonder versions like recipe mac, chili mac with beans, and even recipe vegetarian have become mealtime staples across America.

Don’t miss our cheeseburger pie inspired by Pioneer Woman for another hearty spin on ground beef and cheese.

The Perfect Combo of Texture and Heat

One of the things that makes Chili Mac stand out is its incredible texture. You’ve got soft yet springy macaroni, juicy ground beef, creamy beans, and a gooey blanket of melted cheese binding it all together. Every spoonful is hearty, chewy, and smooth, delivering a comforting bite you won’t forget.

The dish also nails the spice balance. Want a little kick? Add more cayenne. Prefer it smoky? Swap in chipotle. This flexibility is why home cooks love it—you can fine-tune the flavor to match your cravings or dietary needs. Even if you ditch the meat and go full-on recipe vegetarian, you’re still getting that irresistible depth thanks to the spices and beans.

Chili Mac is also a dish with a story. Many remember it from childhood boxed dinners like Chili Mac Hamburger Helper, or from cozy camping trips where a hot can of recipe over a fire meant the world after a long day. And yes, even soldiers on the go count on the Chili Mac MRE to bring some comfort to tough environments. It’s a dish that spans generations and lifestyles.

So whether it’s your weeknight dinner, your meal prep go-to, or your nostalgic throwback, Chili Mac hits the mark every single time.

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Ingredients Breakdown – From Pantry to Perfection

Main Ingredients and Their Roles

What makes Chili Mac so satisfying is how it turns humble pantry staples into a dish bursting with flavor and heartiness. Each ingredient plays a vital role in building a one-pot masterpiece.

• Olive Oil: It starts everything off, helping to soften the aromatics and adding richness to the base.
• Garlic & Onion: These two create the flavor backbone. The moment they hit hot oil, your kitchen smells like something amazing is about to happen.
• Red Bell Pepper: Adds color, sweetness, and texture. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference.
• Lean Ground Beef: The protein powerhouse. Using lean beef keeps the dish hearty without becoming greasy. As it cooks, it soaks in all those spice-laden juices, adding meatiness in every bite.
• Crushed Tomatoes: The acidic balance. Tomatoes tie the meat and spices together into a cohesive sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.
• Kidney Beans: Classic in chili, these bring creaminess and an earthy flavor. They also make recipe with beans more filling and nutritious.
• Beef Broth: This is the hidden hero. Instead of plain water, broth infuses the pasta with flavor as it cooks—no bland noodles here.
• Elbow Macaroni: The star starch. These little curves hold the sauce beautifully and cook to perfection right in the pot.
• Cheese (Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Tasty Cheese): This is where comfort comes full circle. Melty, gooey, and golden, it pulls everything together into cheesy perfection.
• Fresh Coriander (Cilantro): Optional, but adds a fresh finish that cuts through the richness and wakes up the whole dish.

Choosing the Right Ground Beef and Cheese Combo

When it comes to recipe the quality of your beef and cheese can take your dish from good to unforgettable. Always opt for lean ground beef—about 85% lean or higher. Too much fat makes the dish greasy and throws off the flavor balance. If you’re going plant-based, lentils or finely chopped mushrooms can be excellent stand-ins for meat, making a bold chili mac vegetarian option.

As for cheese, don’t just grab the first bag of pre-shredded cheddar you see. Freshly grated cheese melts better and gives you that stretchiness and flavor depth we all love. A blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack brings the perfect mix of tang and creaminess. Want a little heat? Try adding pepper jack.

The right combo of beef and cheese creates layers of flavor and texture you just can’t replicate from a box. And let’s face it, one bite of homemade Chili Mac, and you’ll forget all about Hamburger Helper versions.

How to Make the Best Homemade recipe

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making homemade Chili Mac is a breeze once you know the rhythm. It’s all about layering flavors and letting each ingredient do its job. This one-pot wonder comes together fast and feeds a crowd with minimal cleanup—perfect for busy nights or lazy weekends.

Here’s how to do it right:

1. Start with the base. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large, heavy pot over high heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onions, stirring for about a minute until they’re fragrant and just soft.
2. Add in the bell pepper. Stir in your red capsicum (or bell pepper), letting it cook for another 2–3 minutes. It should start to soften while the onion becomes translucent.
3. Brown the beef. Drop in your lean ground beef. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it browns. This step is key—don’t rush it. You want all that rich, meaty flavor to build before moving on.
4. Add the big flavors. Once the beef turns from red to brown, pour in the crushed canned tomatoes, drained kidney beans, beef broth, and uncooked elbow macaroni.
5. Spice it up. Toss in your spice mix: cayenne, paprika, cumin, oregano, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together. The aroma? Unreal.
6. Simmer to perfection. Bring it all to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to medium. Cover and let it cook for about 12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Keep an eye on it—stir every few minutes so nothing sticks.
7. Turn off the heat. Leave the pot on the stove but kill the heat. Stir in half of your shredded cheese and let it melt into the saucy mix.
8. Top and melt. Sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top, put the lid back on, and let the residual heat do its job. In just a couple minutes, the cheese will melt into a delicious gooey blanket.
9. Garnish and serve. A sprinkle of chopped coriander (or cilantro) adds brightness. Serve it hot and watch it disappear.

This method gives you the ideal balance of pasta that’s not overcooked, meat that’s flavorful and juicy, and a sauce that’s rich, thick, and cheesy.

Pro Tip: The dish may look slightly saucy right after cooking, but don’t worry—it thickens as it sits. That’s what makes leftovers even better. Speaking of which, Chili Mac with leftover chili is a genius way to reinvent your fridge stash. Just heat your chili and toss it with freshly cooked pasta and cheese—done in minutes.

Secrets to a Creamier and More Flavorful Sauce

The sauce is what sets great Chili Mac apart. It should cling to the pasta and coat your spoon with every stir. Here’s how to get there:

• Use broth, not water. Beef broth adds complexity and umami that water just can’t offer. Even chicken broth works in a pinch if it’s all you have.
• Don’t skip the spice blend. Store-bought mixes are convenient, but making your own lets you control the heat and flavor. Paprika adds depth, cumin brings warmth, and cayenne gives it that addictive kick.
• Add cheese in layers. Mixing half into the hot pasta creates a creamy base. Melting the rest on top gives that crave-worthy cheese pull.
• Low and slow melt. Resist the urge to crank the heat when melting cheese. Letting it melt gently ensures it stays smooth and silky.
• Taste before serving. Always adjust salt and pepper at the end. With all those ingredients, your flavors may shift during cooking.

This technique ensures your homemade Chili Mac rivals—and probably surpasses—boxed versions like Chili Mac Hamburger Helper or even those nostalgic recipe cans you grew up with.

Chili Mac Variations You’ll Love

Fast and Flavorful: Weeknight-Friendly Chili Mac

When the clock is ticking and hunger strikes, easy chili mac is your dependable dinner solution. This version skips all the fuss and focuses on getting a warm, hearty meal on the table—fast. With a single pot, a handful of pantry ingredients, and around 30 minutes, you’re all set for a cozy, satisfying dish.

To cut corners without sacrificing taste, use pre-chopped onions, canned beans, and crushed tomatoes. Brown the beef, pour in the broth, pasta, and spices, and let the stove do the work. The macaroni cooks right in the sauce, soaking up every bit of bold flavor.

Pressed for time or don’t feel like cooking from scratch? Pre-packaged options like Chili Mac can meals can hold you over in a pinch. Just heat and enhance them with a handful of shredded cheese, a spoonful of sour cream, or some diced jalapeños for a flavor boost.

Meat-Free Marvel: Vegetarian Chili Mac Options

If you’re skipping meat but still want something hearty and bold, vegetarian chili mac delivers the goods. Loaded with beans, spices, and cheesy goodness, this meatless twist offers all the comfort without compromising taste.

Start by building your flavor base with sautéed onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Instead of ground beef, use black beans, red lentils, or even a mix of chickpeas and mushrooms for body. You’ll still get that hearty texture and satisfying chew, just plant-based.

Switch to vegetable broth and use your favorite dairy-free cheese to make it vegan. The rich tomato base and smoky spices like cumin and paprika carry the flavor beautifully, so even the most dedicated carnivore won’t miss a thing.

You’ll even find shelf-stable recipe MRE versions in vegetarian form—proof that this dish works for every lifestyle.

A Second Life for Leftovers: Chili Mac Reinvented

Leftover chili doesn’t need to sit in your fridge for days, waiting to be ignored. With just a few tweaks, you can transform it into a new favorite: chili mac with leftover chili. It’s the ultimate kitchen hack that turns yesterday’s dinner into tonight’s comfort food hero.

Boil a pot of macaroni, reheat your chili on the stove, and combine them with freshly shredded cheese for a creamy, saucy, and ultra-satisfying dinner. You can even throw in extras—like cooked veggies, green onions, or a splash of broth if the chili has thickened too much.

Top your creation with crushed tortilla chips, jalapeño slices, or a spoonful of sour cream to give it extra flair. It’s quick, resourceful, and full of flavor—perfect for stretching a batch of chili across multiple meals.

When it comes to chili mac, there’s no one right way to make it. Whether you’re going for quick and easy, meatless and bold, or creatively using what you already have, this dish proves that versatility is its superpower.

Chili Mac Across America – From MREs to Hamburger Helper

The Chili Mac MRE Craze: Comfort in a Pouch

If you’ve ever spent time around service members or outdoor survivalists, you’ve probably heard whispers of one of the most legendary Meals Ready to Eat: recipe MRE. It’s not just military food—it’s a cult favorite. And it makes perfect sense why.

Packed for endurance and nutrition, this shelf-stable pouch delivers exactly what you need in tough conditions: warmth, spice, protein, and carbs—all in one go. But what really makes the Chili Mac MRE stand out is its nostalgic comfort. Even in a field tent or on a long hike, it reminds people of home-cooked meals and weeknight dinners with family. It’s a small emotional escape that just happens to taste great.

In fact, Chili Mac is one of the few MRE meals civilians actively seek out. It’s often ranked highest in taste tests, and military forums are full of ways to “hack” it—adding hot sauce, cheese spread packets, or crushed crackers to elevate it.

That kind of reputation doesn’t come easy. It proves one thing: even in a vacuum-sealed bag, recipe holds its title as an all-American comfort food.

Boxed Dinners to Pantry Staples: Hamburger Helper’s Legacy

Before viral TikTok recipes and gourmet meal kits, there was Chili Mac Hamburger Helper—the 1980s weeknight hero. You could open a box, brown some ground beef, and have dinner on the table in less than half an hour. It was affordable, filling, and delicious in that nostalgic, powdered-sauce kind of way.

But while the boxed version introduced Chili Mac to millions of American families, it also paved the way for homemade reinventions. Over time, home cooks wanted more—richer flavor, real cheese, customizable spice. And that’s where modern homemade versions come in.

Today’s homemade Chili Mac ditches the dehydrated packets and instead leans into real ingredients: crushed tomatoes, fresh garlic, beef broth, and bold spices. The result? A dish that captures everything we loved about Hamburger Helper—without the processed shortcuts.

Still, many of us hold a soft spot for that box on the shelf. It taught us the magic of chili and pasta combined, and it reminded us that good food doesn’t need to be complicated to be unforgettable.

Beyond the Bowl: Chili Mac Spaghetti and Regional Variations

As Chili Mac grew in popularity, regional versions began to pop up across the country. One of the most notable twists? Chili Mac spaghetti—yes, spaghetti noodles instead of elbow macaroni. It might sound unusual, but the longer pasta strands soak up chili sauce in a way that’s surprisingly addictive. You’ll find variations of it served in the Midwest and South, often with shredded cheddar and a side of cornbread.

In some states, Chili Mac is layered like a casserole and baked to golden perfection. Others mix in sweet corn or poblano peppers for a southwestern vibe. Some families skip the beans, while others double up for extra heartiness.

No matter the version, one thing stays the same: Chili Mac is America’s comfort food chameleon. Whether you’re eating it from a pouch in the woods, cooking it in a skillet at home, or reinventing it with spaghetti noodles, the flavors always come through

Goulash vs. Chili Mac – What’s the Real Difference?

Key Ingredients and Cultural Differences

At first glance,this recipe and goulash might look like siblings in the comfort food family—both are hearty, one-pot pasta meals loaded with meat and rich tomato sauce. But make no mistake: they are distinct dishes with different roots, ingredients, and flavor profiles.

Goulash has its origins in Eastern Europe, specifically Hungary. Traditional Hungarian goulash is more of a stew, flavored with paprika and often made with chunks of beef, potatoes, and carrots. In the United States, the term American goulash usually refers to a dish made with ground beef, macaroni, and tomato sauce—closer in look to Chili Mac, but still not quite the same.

Chili Mac, on the other hand, is unapologetically American and heavily inspired by Tex-Mex flavors. It’s built on a foundation of chili—complete with cumin, chili powder, beans, and often cheese—then combined with elbow pasta. The spices are more robust, and it’s often richer and spicier than the milder, slightly sweet notes of American goulash.

Where goulash leans into comfort and simplicity, Chili Mac celebrates bold flavors and hearty textures. And while goulash rarely includes cheese, Chili Mac wouldn’t be the same without a generous handful of melty cheddar or Monterey Jack.

Want to try another spin on beefy, cheesy comfort? Discover great ideas like cheeseburger French fry casserole—it’s another Midwest classic with serious flavor punch.

Taste and Texture Compared

The difference in taste is immediate. Chili Mac hits the palate with a spicy kick, cheesy richness, and thick chili-style sauce. It’s robust, peppery, and deeply savory. Every bite is layered with smoky cumin, bold paprika, and just the right amount of heat from cayenne or chili powder.

Goulash, by contrast, is milder. Its tomato base is more neutral, with a touch of sweetness, and the spices are far less aggressive. The meat and pasta mingle in a more delicate sauce, and there’s often more broth involved, giving it a slightly soupier texture—especially in the traditional Hungarian version.

Another key contrast? Chili Mac with beans. Beans are rarely found in any version of goulash but are practically essential in most chili mac recipes. The beans not only stretch the dish but also add creamy, hearty bites that balance the bold spice of the sauce.

Texture-wise, Chili Mac is stick-to-your-ribs thick. It clings to your fork with a cheesy, saucy hug. Goulash tends to be looser, with less cheese and fewer bold flavors, but just as comforting in its own right.

So, which one wins? That depends on your mood. Looking for a fiery, cheesy, ultra-filling meal? Chili Mac. Want something milder and old-school cozy? Goulash. Either way, you can’t go wrong.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Chili Mac

Don’t Let the Pasta Turn to Mush

Chili Mac might be a comfort food classic, but even the most dependable dishes can go wrong without a little care. One of the biggest mistakes home cooks make? Overcooking the macaroni.

Because the pasta cooks directly in the sauce, it soaks up liquid as it simmers—and even after the heat is turned off. If you wait until the noodles are soft to stop cooking, you’ll likely end up with mush. Instead, take the pot off the heat when the pasta is just al dente. Let it rest covered for a couple of minutes—the steam will finish the job perfectly.

Another issue? Adding pasta too early. Make sure your meat is browned and your sauce is simmering before introducing the noodles. This way, they absorb flavor, not just liquid.

Missing Flavor at the Foundation

Another common mistake is skipping the seasoning while browning your meat. Since ground beef is the base of every good recipe, flavoring it early is essential. Don’t just toss in salt at the end—layer in flavor as you cook.

Try this: once your onions, garlic, and bell peppers are softened, add your beef and sprinkle in some of your spice blend—paprika, cumin, onion powder, and a touch of cayenne. This technique allows the spices to bloom in the fat, deepening the flavor before you even add the tomatoes or broth.

Forget to season the beef, and your final dish will feel one-note, no matter how much cheese you add. Even classic versions like Chili Mac Hamburger Helper are pre-loaded with seasoning to boost flavor from the start.

Overdoing (or Underdoing) the Spice

Spice makes Chili Mac shine, but getting the balance right takes some finesse. Too much heat can overpower the dish, while too little leaves it tasting flat. Start light—you can always add more, but you can’t take it out.

A safe blend to begin with? A teaspoon each of cumin and paprika, half a teaspoon of chili powder, and a small pinch of cayenne. Taste as you go. If you’re not a fan of heat, consider using smoked paprika instead—it adds flavor without fire.

And here’s a tip pros use: toast your spices in the pan before adding liquid. This step brings out oils and intensifies the aroma, which translates to more depth in every bite.

Finally, don’t forget what pulls it all together—cheese. A generous helping of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cuts the spice, adds creaminess, and rounds out the dish. Stir some into the sauce and sprinkle the rest on top for that melty, irresistible finish.

Making Chili Mac is easy, but making it unforgettable? That comes down to avoiding the little mistakes that sneak in along the way.

Serving, Storing, and Reheating recipe

Creative Ways to Serve recipe

Chili Mac is delicious straight from the pot—but a few smart toppings or sides can turn it into a next-level experience. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or plating up a solo bowl, it’s easy to take this comfort dish from great to unforgettable.

For that classic touch, top your easy recipe with extra shredded cheese and let it melt until gooey. A sprinkle of chopped cilantro or green onions adds a pop of freshness. Like heat? Drizzle some hot sauce or add sliced jalapeños on top.

You can also get playful with the texture—add a crunchy topping like crushed tortilla chips, crispy bacon bits, or even fried onions for an exciting contrast. On the side, cornbread or garlic bread makes a perfect partner, soaking up every last bit of saucy goodness.

Want to stretch your leftovers creatively? Turn your Chili Mac with leftover chili into a baked casserole. Just layer it in a baking dish, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake until bubbly and golden.

Hosting guests? Serve Chili Mac in mini ramekins with toppings so everyone can customize their own bowl. It’s comfort food… elevated.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Chili Mac

One of the best parts about recipe ? It reheats like a dream. This makes it perfect for meal prep, batch cooking, or stretching your budget.

To store it, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it into an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, portion it into freezer-safe containers. It’ll hold up in the freezer for 2 to 3 months.

When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce and restore that creamy consistency. Microwave it in 60-second bursts, stirring in between, or warm it on the stovetop over low heat.

If you froze it, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture. Be careful not to overheat—it can dry out or make the pasta too soft.

Bonus tip: You can even repurpose it. Stuff leftover Chili Mac into bell peppers and bake, or wrap it in a tortilla with shredded lettuce and sour cream for a fusion-style burrito.

Don’t let a single bite go to waste. This dish keeps on giving

Why Chili Mac Deserves a Spot in Your Recipe Rotation

Chili Mac isn’t just another pasta dish—it’s a flavor-packed, one-pot masterpiece that delivers comfort, warmth, and satisfaction every single time. Whether you’re whipping up an easy chili mac on a rushed weeknight or reinventing last night’s leftover chili into something new, this dish has a way of stealing the spotlight at any table.

Its real magic lies in its versatility. You can make it bold and spicy or creamy and mild. Go meatless with a recipe vegetarian twist or add extra cheese and beans for a hearty, stick-to-your-ribs meal. From boxed dinner throwbacks like Chili Mac Hamburger Helper to gourmet, made-from-scratch stovetop versions, it’s a dish that grows with you—and your cravings.

It’s no wonder this comforting classic has stood the test of time, making its way from family dinners to field rations in the form of the beloved Chili Mac MRE. The rich, seasoned meat. The tender pasta. The perfectly melty cheese. It all adds up to one irresistible reason to keep this recipe in your rotation.

So the next time you’re torn between chili and macaroni—don’t choose. Make Chili Mac. Your taste buds (and your schedule) will thank you.Tray this : Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta

Watch How to Make chili mac