Old Fashioned Chili Mac: My Favorite Cozy Weeknight Classic
If there’s one dish that takes me right back to the family dinner table, it’s Old Fashioned Chili Mac. Equal parts chili and macaroni casserole, this retro favorite is comfort food at its finest. We’re talking tender pasta, seasoned beef, saucy tomatoes, sweet onion, and the perfect hit of brown sugar—it’s a warm hug in a bowl.
Perfect for potlucks, lazy Sundays, or feeding a hungry crowd without stress, this dish checks all the boxes: easy, hearty, and incredibly satisfying.
Why I Love This Recipe
What makes this version “old fashioned” is the addition of tomato soup and a touch of brown sugar—two humble ingredients that create that nostalgic sweet-savory flavor you didn’t even know you missed.
I also love that it’s super flexible. You can build it ahead of time, stretch it with more pasta or beans, and it reheats beautifully. Plus, it’s all made with pantry staples.
Ingredients
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 cup chopped celery
- ½ large green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained
- 2 (10.75 oz) cans condensed tomato soup
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes
- ⅛ cup brown sugar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Ingredient Swaps & Notes
- Ground turkey or plant-based crumbles can be subbed for beef.
- Want heat? Add a teaspoon of chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Use crushed tomatoes instead of diced for a smoother sauce.
- No kidney beans? Pinto or black beans work just as well.
- Add a cup of shredded cheddar at the end for a cheesy finish!
Directions
- Cook the Pasta
Bring a pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook for 8–10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside. - Soften the Veggies
In a small saucepan, combine chopped celery and green bell pepper. Add just enough water to cover and simmer until tender. Drain and set aside. - Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until evenly browned. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent. Drain any excess fat. - Combine Everything
Stir in the drained celery and bell pepper, kidney beans, tomato soup, diced tomatoes (with juice), and brown sugar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. - Mix & Heat Through
Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet or pot and stir until everything is fully combined and heated through. Serve warm!
Tips for Success
- Use a deep skillet or Dutch oven so everything fits comfortably.
- Cook pasta just al dente to avoid it turning mushy when combined.
- Let it rest 10 minutes after cooking—it thickens and flavors meld better.
- For a baked version, top with shredded cheese and broil until bubbly.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This Chili Mac holds its own but pairs beautifully with crunchy sides and bold flavors:
- Need a starter? Try this Beer Cheese Dip with pretzel bites or veggies for the ultimate game day spread.
- Serve alongside these Sheet Pan Quesadillas for a Tex-Mex spin.
- Craving more Southern comfort? This Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo brings a bold, spicy contrast.
- Add a veggie-forward side like this Tomato Skillet with Okra and Sausage to round out the meal.
- Want something extra indulgent? These Easy Turkey Wings make the perfect cozy complement.
Storage & Leftovers
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
- Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.
More Recipes You’ll Love
If this chili mac warms your soul, here are a few more dishes that keep the comfort train rolling:
- This Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo
- These Easy Turkey Wings
- This Tomato Skillet with Okra and Sausage
- This Beer Cheese Dip
- These Sheet Pan Quesadillas
Final Thoughts
Old Fashioned Chili Mac is more than a recipe—it’s a nostalgic, no-fail comfort meal that always delivers. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving a bowl of something cozy and familiar, this one brings warmth, ease, and plenty of flavor.
Have a family twist on Chili Mac? Want more classic comfort recipes like this? Drop your feedback in the comments and be sure to follow along at ChefManiac.com for more soul-satisfying meals from my kitchen to yours. 🍲❤️
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