Easy Chili Mac and Cheese
Servings: 4 servings
Learn how to make chili mac and cheese in just 25 minutes! This easy, one-pot chili macaroni recipe uses Dei Fratelli diced tomatoes for the perfect hearty family meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 (14.5 oz.) can Dei Fratelli Chili-Ready Diced Tomatoes
- 1 Cup Macaroni Pasta
- 2 Tbsp. Flour
- 1 Cup Cheddar Cheese, shredded
- 1.5 lbs. Ground Beef
- Sour Cream, for garnish
- Green Onion, minced, for garnish
- Breadcrumbs, optional if baking, as needed
- Olive Oil, optional if baking, as needed
Instructions:
- In a medium pot, begin boiling water and cook your macaroni pasta according to your package's directions.
- Once cooked, drain your pasta and set aside to cool.
- Cook ground beef in the same pot on your stove over medium heat.
- Once the ground beef is completely cooked, add 2 Tbsp. of flour and mix well.
- Add Dei Fratelli Chili-Ready Diced Tomatoes and simmer in the pot with the ground beef for 2 minutes.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese and combine well.
- Once your meat and cheese sauce is fully combined and melted, add in your drained macaroni pasta and stir well, making sure all the noodles are well coated.
- Serve in a bowl with sour cream, shredded cheese, or green onion garnish.
The flour absorbs the extra fat from the beef and creates a quick roux that makes your cheese sauce thick and creamy.
You can also transfer your Chili Mac and Cheese to an oven-safe dish, top with breadcrumbs and a drizzle of oil and broil in your oven for 5 minutes to create a crispy, baked mac and cheese.
Chef's Tip:
Do you have to drain the grease when making chili mac?
In this recipe, you do not need to drain the grease. Adding 2 tablespoons of flour directly to the cooked ground beef absorbs the extra fat. This creates an instant roux right in the pan, which helps naturally thicken your meat and cheese sauce.
What are the best tomatoes to use for chili macaroni?
For the best flavor and quickest prep time, use Dei Fratelli Chili Ready Diced Tomatoes. Because they are already canned with a premium blend of chili peppers, onion, and garlic, they provide a robust, scratch-made flavor without requiring extra chili seasoning packets.
Can I turn this into a baked chili mac and cheese?
Yes! To make baked chili mac, follow the one-pot instructions until the noodles and sauce are fully combined. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, top with an extra layer of shredded cheddar cheese, and bake at 375°F for 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
What can I serve with chili mac and cheese?
This hearty dish pairs perfectly with a crisp side salad, steamed green vegetables, or a slice of warm cornbread. For toppings, try garnishing your bowl with a dollop of sour cream, sliced green onions, or extra shredded cheese.