This Mexican Chili Mac brings together two ultimate comfort-food favorites in one bubbling, cheesy skillet. Tender macaroni is folded into richly seasoned ground beef, hearty beans, tomatoes, green chiles, and a smoky blend of Mexican-inspired spices, then finished with a generous layer of melted Cheddar. The result is saucy, satisfying, and packed with the kind of bold flavor that makes everyone go back for another scoop.
What makes this dish especially irresistible is the way the pasta cooks right alongside the chili. Instead of simply adding macaroni at the end, the noodles absorb the seasoned tomato broth as they simmer, becoming incredibly flavorful while naturally thickening the sauce. The beef and beans add hearty texture, while the melted cheese creates a creamy finish that pulls everything together.
A combination of chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and garlic gives the dish its signature depth, while diced tomatoes and green chiles bring brightness and a gentle kick. It’s rustic, comforting food that feels like a cross between homemade chili and the creamiest taco-inspired pasta.
Perfect for busy weeknights, game-day gatherings, or feeding a hungry family, this Mexican Chili Mac comes together in one pot with minimal cleanup. Serve it straight from the skillet with your favorite toppings for a dinner that’s warm, cheesy, hearty, and completely satisfying.
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chiles
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 2½ cups beef broth
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
Optional Toppings
- Sour cream
- Sliced green onions
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced jalapeños
- Diced avocado
- Fresh cilantro
- Crushed tortilla chips
- Lime wedges
Instructions
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