Cozy Gluten Free Chili Mac Recipe

You know those nights when you just want a big, comforting bowl of something hearty, but the thought of a long, complicated recipe makes you want to order a pizza instead? Yeah, me too. That’s exactly why this Cozy Gluten Free Chili Mac was born in my kitchen. It’s the beautiful love child of two classic comfort foods, coming together in one pot to save your weeknight. It’s hearty, cheesy, and has just the right amount of kick to warm you from the inside out. Best of all, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Cozy Gluten Free Chili Mac

• One-Pot Wonder: Less time washing dishes means more time enjoying your meal (and maybe even relaxing!).
• Naturally Gluten-Free: Made with simple, gluten-free pasta, so everyone can dig in without worry.
• Family-Friendly Comfort: Even the pickiest eaters won’t be able to resist this cheesy, savory dish.
• Easy on the Wallet: Uses affordable, pantry-staple ingredients to create a meal that feels indulgent.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day, making lunch a breeze.

Gathering Your Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this cozy masterpiece. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility, so don’t be afraid to make it your own :

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• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1 lb lean ground beef (90/10 works great)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup gluten-free elbow macaroni (like Barilla or Ronzoni)
• 1 ½ cups beef broth
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt, or to taste
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

Let’s Get Cooking!

1. Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and ground beef. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until the beef is no longer pink and the onion is soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for one more minute, until fragrant.
2. Add the Flavor Foundation: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the spices toast for about 30 seconds to unlock their full flavor.
3. Combine Everything (Except the Cheese!): Add the kidney beans, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juices, gluten-free elbow macaroni, and beef broth to the pot. Give everything a good stir to combine.
4. Simmer to Perfection: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
5. Get Cheesy: Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and gloriously gooey.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the chili mac into bowls and top with the remaining ½ cup of cheese. For an extra treat, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro is divine.

My Go-To Tips for the Best Chili Mac

I’ve made this recipe more times than I can count, and here are my best tips for success. First, don’t skip toasting the spices! That quick 30 seconds in the pot with the beef and onions makes a world of difference in building a deep, rich flavor. If your mixture seems a little dry after the pasta cooks, just add a splash more beef broth until it reaches your desired consistency. And for my fellow spice lovers, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce will take it to the next level. Want to mix up the protein? This recipe is fantastic with ground turkey or a plant-based ground meat alternative for a lighter twist.

The Perfect Pairings

This Cozy Gluten Free Chili Mac is a meal all on its own, but I love serving it with a simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness. A piece of warm, buttery gluten-free cornbread is also a dream combination for soaking up every last bit of the savory sauce. It’s the ultimate comfort food plate!

Your Chili Mac Questions, Answered!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! This is a great make-ahead meal. Let it cool completely after cooking, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop with a little extra broth to loosen it up.

Can I freeze gluten free chili mac?

You can, but a quick heads-up: the texture of the gluten-free pasta can become a bit softer upon thawing. For the best results, freeze it in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What’s the best gluten-free pasta to use?

I’ve had excellent results with brands like Barilla or Ronzoni gluten-free elbows. They hold their shape well and don’t get mushy. I’d avoid rice-only pasta blends for this recipe, as they can become too sticky. For more guidance, check out this great resource on navigating gluten-free pasta.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Easy! Add a diced jalapeño (seeds and all for max heat) when you cook the onions, or stir in a tablespoon of chopped chipotles in adobo sauce for a smoky kick.

Nutrition Information

This information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients you use.

Calories: 485kcal | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 36g | Fat: 21g

There you have it! A recipe that’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. This Cozy Gluten Free Chili Mac is the perfect solution for a hectic evening when you need a satisfying meal fast. It proves that with a few simple ingredients, you can create something truly special that brings everyone to the table. If you’re looking for another easy, family-friendly favorite, you have to try my Hearty Beef Stroganoff. Happy cooking!