Chili Spaghetti Recipe
Chili Spaghetti is a delicious, meaty twist on a classic pasta dish. It combines the hearty flavors of chili with tender spaghetti noodles, making it a comforting and filling meal…
By Ava
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Reading time: 6 min
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Chili Spaghetti is a delicious, meaty twist on a classic pasta dish. It combines the hearty flavors of chili with tender spaghetti noodles, making it a comforting and filling meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. You get the rich, savory taste of chili beans and ground beef tangled up with pasta, topped with a sprinkle of cheese that melts just right.
I love making chili spaghetti because it’s so easy and satisfying. Whenever I’m short on time but want something tasty and warm, this recipe is my go-to. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies if you add onions or peppers to your chili. One of my favorite tricks is to let the chili simmer a little longer to deepen the flavors before mixing it with the spaghetti.
Serving chili spaghetti reminds me of cozy family dinners where everyone digs in with smiles and a little extra cheese on top. It’s perfect paired with a simple side salad or some warm garlic bread. If you want to make it a little more fun, try topping it with crushed tortilla chips or a dollop of sour cream – you’ll love how those little touches add a bit of texture and creaminess to the meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: This is the star protein for a rich and meaty chili. If you want a lighter or vegetarian option, try ground turkey or crumbled firm tofu.
Spaghetti: Traditional spaghetti is perfect here, but feel free to use any pasta shape you like like penne or fusilli for a different texture.
Diced tomatoes & tomato sauce: They create the base of the chili sauce. If fresh tomatoes are in season, you can use chopped fresh tomatoes instead for a fresher taste.
Kidney beans: These add nice texture and bulk. Black beans or pinto beans work well as good alternatives.
Cheddar cheese: I love the melty, sharp flavor cheddar adds. Monterey Jack or a mix of mozzarella and cheddar also work great.
How Do You Cook the Chili Sauce So the Flavors Are Just Right?
Making the chili sauce well is key. Here’s how to get the best flavor:
- Start by gently sautéing the onion until soft but not browned to keep a mild sweetness.
- Add garlic last so it releases aroma but doesn’t burn.
- Brown the beef well for flavor, then drain off fat to avoid greasy sauce.
- Simmer the sauce low and slow—this helps the spices blend and the sauce thicken nicely.
- Don’t rush—letting it simmer 10-15 minutes or more deepens the taste.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – for boiling the spaghetti; you want enough space to cook pasta evenly.
- Colander – helps you drain the spaghetti quickly without losing any noodles.
- Large skillet or sauté pan – perfect for browning the ground beef and simmering the chili sauce.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – to stir the chili and break up meat while cooking.
- Measuring spoons – handy for adding the right amounts of spices.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter meal that still packs flavor.
- Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños while sautéing onions for extra crunch and heat.
- Mix in black beans or pinto beans instead of kidney beans for a different texture and taste.
- Top with shredded Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a creamier, spicier finish.
How to Make Chili Spaghetti?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for garnish
Spices & Seasonings:
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chili Spaghetti recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes boiling the pasta and 20 minutes preparing and simmering the chili sauce, making it a quick and hearty meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package directions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Chili Sauce:
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté it until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it while breaking it apart with a spatula until the meat is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
3. Add Sauce and Simmer:
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
Add the drained kidney beans and let the chili simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes. This helps the flavors develop and the sauce thicken slightly.
4. Serve and Garnish:
Place a serving of spaghetti on each plate. Spoon a generous amount of chili sauce over the pasta. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top while the chili is still hot so it melts nicely.
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy your warm, comforting chili spaghetti!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for Chili Spaghetti?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it first. Thaw frozen ground beef overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Cooking thawed beef ensures even browning and prevents uneven cooking.
Can I Make Chili Spaghetti Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the chili sauce and cook the spaghetti, then store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave before serving, adding a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover chili spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a little water or broth to loosen the sauce and heat gently to avoid drying out the pasta.
Can I Substitute Other Types of Beans in This Recipe?
Yes! Black beans or pinto beans are great alternatives if you don’t have kidney beans on hand. Just drain and rinse them before adding to the chili sauce for similar texture and flavor.