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Pioneer Woman Chili Mac 

Pioneer Woman Chili Mac recipe
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Chili Mac is a fusion of two beloved dishes: classic chili and creamy macaroni. The Pioneer Woman’s version takes this comfort food staple to the next level with a bold blend of spices, tender elbow macaroni, rich tomato base, hearty ground beef, and a generous layer of melted cheese stirred in just before serving.

It’s Tex-Mex meets down-home comfort, and it works beautifully for lunch, dinner, or next-day leftovers.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)

  • 1 small onion, finely diced

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste

  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes

  • 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce

  • 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed

  • 2 teaspoons chili powder

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin

  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

  • 2 cups beef broth or water

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

  • Optional: chopped green onions or fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  • Brown the meat – In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.

  • Add aromatics and spices – Stir in the diced onion and cook until soft, about 3–4 minutes. Add garlic, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.

  • Add tomatoes and beans – Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and kidney beans. Stir to combine, letting the flavours begin to meld.

  • Add broth and pasta – Stir in the beef broth and uncooked macaroni. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

  • Simmer until pasta is cooked – Reduce heat to a simmer, cover loosely, and cook for 12–14 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

  • Add the cheese – Turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.

  • Garnish and serve – Scoop into bowls and top with green onions or cilantro if desired. Serve hot.

Find it online: https://inspiredbypioneerwoman.com/pioneer-woman-chili-mac/