Chili Mac

Whole New Mom - https://wholenewmom.com

Course: Entree, Side Dish

Cuisine: Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free, Grain-Free, Low-Carb, Paleo

Keyword: gluten free chili mac

Prep Time: 10

Cook Time: 20

Total Time: 30

Servings:

Calories: 412kcal

This Gluten Free Chili Mac is a breeze to make and tastes great--it's sure to become a family fave that you'll want in your meal rotation!

Heat oil in a large skillet. Add onion and cook until soft.
Add meat and garlic. Cook until browned.
Bloom spices: Add chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika directly to the pan.
Stir 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
Add tomato paste and cook 1–2 minutes until slightly darkened.
Stir in tomatoes and broth. Bring to a simmer.
Stir in pasta, cover, and cook until tender (8–10 minutes), stirring occasionally.
Stir in vinegar/lime juice + cheese. Let sit 5 minutes to thicken.

For best flavor, brown the meat with garlic and spices in a skillet before adding to the slow cooker (optional but recommended).
Transfer meat to slow cooker.
Add tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, and broth. Stir to combine.
Cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
If adding dry pasta, stir it in during the last 20–30 minutes on LOW, stirring occasionally, until tender.
If using cooked pasta, stir it in just before serving.
Stir in cheese and a splash of vinegar or lime juice before serving.
Taste and adjust salt as needed.

Broth Tips: Homemade broth adds the best flavor. You can use chicken or beef broth, or a broth powder—just reduce added salt if your broth is already salted.
Gluten-Free Pasta Tips: Gluten-free pasta tends to absorb more liquid than regular pasta and can soften quickly. Stir occasionally while cooking and avoid overcooking.
For the Best Texture: If you prefer firmer pasta and a thicker sauce, cook the pasta separately according to package directions. Prepare the chili base with slightly less broth (about 1–1½ cups), then stir the cooked pasta in just before serving.
Pasta Options: Brown rice pasta works especially well here (Tinkyada and Trader Joe’s are both good options). You can also use lentil or chickpea pasta, though they may change the texture slightly. Use keto noodles or eggplant noodles for a keto option.
Low-Carb & Grain-Free Options: For a lower-carb or grain-free version, use spaghetti squash or a konjac-based noodle instead of pasta.
Veggie Add-Ins: This recipe is easy to customize with extra vegetables. Bell peppers, carrots, spinach, or cabbage all work well—add them with the onions or stir in quick-cooking vegetables near the end.
Garnish Ideas: Top with avocado slices, pickled jalapeños, hot sauce, fresh lime juice, parsley, or shredded cabbage.