The Pioneer Woman Chili Mac Recipe is the ultimate cozy dinner that brings together the hearty flavors of chili and the comforting charm of macaroni and cheese. Imagine tender ground beef simmered with fragrant garlic and onions, perfectly spiced with chili powder and cumin, all mingling with elbow macaroni in a rich tomato and beef broth base. Topped off with melty cheddar and pepper jack cheese, this dish is a perfect balance of spicy, cheesy, and satisfying flavors that will have you coming back for seconds. It’s a family-friendly meal that’s easy to prepare yet bursting with personality, making it a staple to keep in your dinner rotation.

Pioneer Woman Chili Mac Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you; each one plays a crucial role in crafting the bold taste, creamy texture, and vibrant color of this Pioneer Woman Chili Mac Recipe. From the fragrant spices to the cheesy finish, this lineup sets you up for success.

2 Tbsp. olive oil: Helps brown the beef and sauté the aromatics to build flavor.
1 lb. ground beef: The hearty protein that forms the base of this chili mac.
3 garlic cloves, minced: Adds a deep, savory punch that wakes up the dish.
1 small yellow onion, diced: Brings mild sweetness and texture.
2 Tbsp. chili powder: Gives that signature chili heat and earthiness.
2 tsp. ground cumin: Adds a warm, smoky undertone.
Kosher salt + black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
3 cups beef broth: Creates a rich and flavorful cooking liquid for the pasta.
1 (8 oz.) can tomato sauce: Adds acidity and depth to the sauce.
12 oz. elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape that holds onto every bit of sauce.
1 (15 oz.) can pinto beans, drained: Adds heartiness and a creamy texture.
1½ cups cheddar cheese, grated: Melts into the dish for that creamy, cheesy goodness.
1 cup pepper jack cheese, grated: Brings a touch of spice and extra creaminess.
Fresh cilantro, hot sauce, sour cream (optional toppings): Perfect for personalizing your bowl with brightness and zing.

How to Make Pioneer Woman Chili Mac Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef, Garlic, and Onion

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef, minced garlic, and diced onion, then cook until the beef is nicely browned and the onions are soft and translucent. This initial browning is key to unlocking that deep, savory flavor that forms the backbone of this chili mac.

Step 2: Season and Build the Flavor Base

Sprinkle in chili powder, ground cumin, kosher salt, and black pepper while stirring everything together. These spices will infuse the beef and aromatics with warm, smoky, and slightly spicy notes that make the dish so memorable.

Step 3: Add Liquids, Pasta, and Beans

Pour in the beef broth and tomato sauce, then stir in the elbow macaroni and drained pinto beans. Give everything a good mix, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently. The pasta will absorb the rich flavors as it cooks, and the beans add a satisfying creaminess and extra substance.

Step 4: Cook Until Perfectly Tender

Let the mixture simmer until the macaroni is tender and the sauce has thickened to your preference. This usually takes about 10 to 12 minutes with the pot covered – just enough time for all the flavors to marry and the sauce to become luscious and hearty.

Step 5: Stir in the Cheeses Off Heat

Remove the pot from the heat and fold in the grated cheddar and pepper jack cheese until melted and creamy. This cheesy finish is what transforms the chili mac into a rich, dreamy comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

How to Serve Pioneer Woman Chili Mac Recipe

Garnishes

Top your serving with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and freshness. For some added creaminess and tang, a dollop of sour cream works wonders. If you love a kick, drizzle a bit of your favorite hot sauce. These garnishes elevate your meal and make every bite more dynamic.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a crisp green salad with vinaigrette for balance or some crunchy garlic bread to scoop up every last cheesy bite. Simple roasted vegetables also pair beautifully, adding extra nutrients and texture to the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering the chili mac in individual ramekins and broiling until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden for a fancy twist. Or assemble it in a large casserole dish for family-style serving, perfect for potlucks or casual weeknight dinners where everyone digs in together.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Pioneer Woman Chili Mac Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It tastes just as delicious reheated, making it a perfect dish to prep ahead or enjoy as a quick meal later in the week.

Freezing

You can freeze this chili mac in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Be sure to let it cool completely before freezing, and avoid freezing if you plan to garnish with fresh toppings to keep those elements fresh and crisp.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Stir occasionally and add a splash of beef broth or water to restore creaminess if the sauce thickens too much. Fresh toppings can be added after reheating for the best experience.

FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta for the Pioneer Woman Chili Mac Recipe?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can substitute with small shells, rotini, or even penne. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, since smaller or larger pasta may cook faster or slower.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Swap out the ground beef for plant-based meat alternatives or extra beans and vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a fully vegetarian version without sacrificing flavor.

How spicy is the Pioneer Woman Chili Mac Recipe?

The dish has a mild to medium spice level thanks to chili powder and pepper jack cheese. You can easily adjust the heat by adding more chili powder or hot sauce, or keep it mild if cooking for kids or sensitive palates.

Can I prepare this recipe in a slow cooker?

Definitely! Brown the beef and sauté the aromatics first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 3-4 hours, adding pasta in the last 30 minutes or so to avoid overcooking.

What’s the best way to get the cheese perfectly melted and creamy?

Be sure to stir the cheese in off the heat to prevent it from clumping or becoming grainy. This way, the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce, giving the Pioneer Woman Chili Mac Recipe its signature creamy texture.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dish that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, you simply have to try the Pioneer Woman Chili Mac Recipe. It’s easy enough for weeknight dinners but special enough to serve when you want to wow your family or friends. Once you make it, this hearty, cheesy, and spiced mac will quickly become one of your all-time favorites – just like it did for me!

Pioneer Woman Chili Mac Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 22 reviews

Author: Julian
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

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Description

Pioneer Woman Chili Mac is a hearty and comforting one-pot meal featuring browned ground beef simmered with spices, tomato sauce, beans, and elbow macaroni, finished with a blend of cheddar and pepper jack cheese for a creamy, flavorful dish. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, this recipe brings together the richness of chili flavors with the satisfying texture of pasta.

Instructions

Brown the beef with garlic and onion: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, minced garlic, and diced onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are soft, breaking up the beef as it cooks. Season with chili powder, cumin, kosher salt, and black pepper to infuse the meat with rich flavors.
Add broth, tomato sauce, macaroni, and beans: Pour in the beef broth and the can of tomato sauce. Stir in the elbow macaroni and the drained pinto beans. Mix everything together to combine well.
Simmer the chili mac: Cover the pot and simmer on medium-low heat. Cook until the macaroni is tender and has absorbed the flavors, while the sauce thickens slightly, about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Incorporate the cheeses: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the grated cheddar and pepper jack cheeses until melted and creamy throughout the chili mac, creating a rich and cheesy texture.
Serve with optional toppings: Dish the chili mac into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, and a dash of hot sauce if desired for an added kick and freshness.

Notes

You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
For a spicier dish, add cayenne pepper or use spicy chili powder.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently with a splash of broth or water.
Feel free to add diced bell peppers or corn for extra vegetables.
If you prefer a vegetarian option, omit the beef and use vegetable broth instead, increasing beans or adding lentils.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Simmering, Sautéing
Cuisine: American