Pioneer Woman Chili Mac Recipe
Enjoy the Pioneer Woman Chili Mac Recipe made with beef, pasta, spices, and melted cheese—easy, filling, and full of bold flavor.
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven (for even heat distribution)
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons.
- Colander (optional)
- Ladle (for serving)
Ingredients
- 500 g ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni uncooked
- 1 small onion finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can 400g diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional toppings:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro
- Extra shredded cheese
- Sour cream
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Let it develop a bit of color—that’s where the flavor builds.
Step 2: Add Aromatics
- Add the diced onion and garlic. Cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and fragrant. This step brings a warm, savory base to the dish.
Step 3: Build the Chili Base
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix everything well so it forms a rich, slightly thick sauce.
Step 4: Season Generously
- Add chili powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes so the spices fully develop and blend together.
Step 5: Add Pasta
- Add the uncooked elbow macaroni directly into the pot. Stir well, cover, and cook for 10–12 minutes. Stir occasionally so nothing sticks, and the pasta cooks evenly.
Step 6: Melt the Cheese
- Once the pasta is tender, reduce heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Watch it melt into the sauce, turning everything creamy and irresistible.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve hot, topped with fresh herbs, extra cheese, or a dollop of sour cream if you like. Every spoonful should be rich, cheesy, and comforting.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting
- Let the beef brown properly—don’t rush this step
- Stir the pasta occasionally to avoid sticking
- Add a splash of broth if it gets too thick
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving