Chili Spaghetti Recipe

Chili Spaghetti is a fun and tasty twist on two classic favorites: chili and spaghetti. Think hearty ground beef, beans, and a rich, spicy chili sauce all tossed together with…

By Julia • November 16, 2025 • Reading time: 6 min

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Chili Spaghetti is a fun and tasty twist on two classic favorites: chili and spaghetti. Think hearty ground beef, beans, and a rich, spicy chili sauce all tossed together with perfectly cooked spaghetti noodles. It’s a simple dish that brings lots of comforting flavors and a bit of a kick in every bite.

I love making this meal when I want something filling but not too fancy. The best part is how easy it is to throw everything in one pot and let it simmer while the noodles cook. I usually add a little extra cheese on top because, well, cheese makes everything better. It’s also a great way to use up some pantry staples like canned beans and tomato sauce.

When I serve chili spaghetti, I like to pair it with a crisp salad or warm garlic bread. It’s a great dinner for chilly nights when you want something cozy but don’t want to spend too long in the kitchen. Plus, it always makes me think of casual family dinners where everyone can dig in and enjoy something that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Ground beef: I like using lean ground beef to keep the dish hearty but not too greasy. If you want a lighter or vegetarian option, try ground turkey or lentils instead—they work great here.

Kidney beans: These add great texture and protein. If you don’t have kidney beans, black beans or pinto beans are good substitutes and taste just as satisfying.

Tomato sauce & diced tomatoes: These form the base of the chili sauce. If you want a thicker sauce, use crushed tomatoes or tomato paste with some water.

Spices: Chili powder and cumin create the classic chili flavor. Adjust the cayenne pepper to control heat—less if you prefer mild, or add more for a spicier kick.

Spaghetti: Regular spaghetti is classic here, but you can use any pasta shape you like. Thicker noodles hold the chili sauce well.

How Do I Get the Chili Sauce Thick and Flavorful?

Making a rich chili sauce is key. Here’s how I do it:

• Start by sautéing the onions, peppers, and garlic until soft to build flavor.
• Cook the beef fully so it browns nicely—this adds depth.
• Add spices early and stir well to “toast” them in the pan, which releases their aroma.
• Simmer the sauce gently for at least 15-20 minutes. This helps thicken the sauce and blends the flavors.
• If your sauce is too thin, remove the lid and let it cook uncovered to reduce the liquid.

Taking these simple steps makes all the difference between a watery sauce and a deliciously thick chili spaghetti.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot – for boiling the spaghetti; big enough to avoid sticky noodles.
• Large skillet or saucepan – where you’ll cook the chili mixture; a deep pan helps with stirring.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – perfect for breaking up the ground beef and mixing ingredients.
• Colander – to drain the cooked spaghetti easily and quickly.
• Measuring spoons – useful for adding the right amount of spices without guessing.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to make it lighter but still tasty.
• Add corn kernels or diced zucchini for extra veggies and a bit of natural sweetness.
• Use pepper jack or Monterey Jack cheese instead of cheddar for a creamier, mild melt.
• Stir in a splash of hot sauce or chipotle powder if you want more smoky heat.

How to Make Chili Spaghetti?

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced (optional)
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp paprika (optional)
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, adjust for heat preference)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil (or vegetable oil)
• Grated cheddar cheese for topping (optional)
• Fresh parsley or green onion for garnish (optional)
• Bread or garlic bread, for serving (optional)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 30 minutes to cook, including simmering the chili sauce and cooking the spaghetti. In total, plan for around 40 minutes from start to finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Spaghetti:

Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package directions until al dente, usually about 8–10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

While the spaghetti cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and green bell pepper (if using) and sauté for 4–5 minutes until they soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Brown the Beef and Add Spices:

Add the ground beef to the pan. Break it up with a spoon and cook until no pink remains, about 6–8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it off. Then stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper, mixing well to evenly coat the beef and veggies with the spices.

4. Make the Chili Sauce:

Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, and drained kidney beans. Stir everything together. Let the mixture simmer on low heat, uncovered, for 15–20 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure it doesn’t stick and to help the sauce thicken.

5. Combine and Serve:

Once the chili sauce is ready, add the cooked spaghetti into the pan. Gently toss everything together so the noodles are coated with the rich chili sauce. Serve hot, topped with grated cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions if you like. Don’t forget to add a side of bread or garlic bread for a wholesome meal.

Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen ground beef, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The safest way is to thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost function on your microwave. This helps ensure even cooking and avoids excess moisture in the pan.

Can I Make Chili Spaghetti Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! Prepare the chili sauce and cook the spaghetti separately, then combine just before serving. You can store the sauce and noodles in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally to warm through.

What Are Good Substitutions for Kidney Beans?

If you don’t have kidney beans, black beans or pinto beans work great as alternatives. Just drain and rinse canned beans as usual before adding them to the chili sauce.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm slowly on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce seems too thick.