This One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is the perfect cozy meal! It combines tasty macaroni, ground meat, beans, and cheesy goodness all in one pot. So simple and hearty!
You’ll love how fast it comes together. I often make it when I want comfort food without a mess. Plus, it’s a hit with my family—who doesn’t love cheesy pasta?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This adds a rich flavor to the dish. For a lighter option, try ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute if you’re looking to make it vegetarian.
Canned Beans: Kidney beans are perfect here, but feel free to swap in black beans or pinto beans. They all add protein and fiber!
Diced Tomatoes: Use any canned tomatoes you like, such as fire-roasted for an extra smoky kick. If fresh tomatoes are available, you can use those too; just chop them up and toss in.
Broth: Beef broth enhances the flavor, but chicken or vegetable broth can work well too. Choose what you have on hand or your dietary needs.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the best taste, but you can use medium or mild cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack if you want some heat.
How Do I Ensure the Pasta is Perfectly Cooked?
The key to cooking pasta in this dish is to keep an eye on the simmering time and water content. Here are some tips:
- After adding the uncooked macaroni, make sure the liquid is bubbling before reducing to low heat.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This helps achieve an even cook.
- Test the pasta around the 10-minute mark. You want it al dente—cooked but with a slight bite to it!
Taking these steps will keep your pasta from getting mushy while soaking up all the flavors from the chili. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy dish!
One Pot Chili Mac And Cheese
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, adjust to heat preference)
- 1 can (15 oz/425g) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz/400g) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Jalapeño slices (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped white onion (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, giving you a total time of about 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
Start by heating a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for about 5-7 minutes. As it cooks, break it up with a spoon until it’s nicely browned and cooked through.
2. Add Aromatics:
Next, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook this mixture for about 2-3 minutes, stirring until the onion becomes soft and fragrant.
3. Spice it Up:
Now stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if you like a kick), and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Cook everything together for an additional minute to allow the spices to release their flavors.
4. Combine the Main Ingredients:
Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), rinsed kidney beans, and beef broth to the pot. Mix it all together to ensure everything is well combined.
5. Cook the Pasta:
Pour in the uncooked elbow macaroni and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow it to simmer gently for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
6. Add Cheese:
Remove the pot from heat and stir in most of the shredded cheddar cheese, saving a little for the topping. Mix until the cheese is melted and blended in.
7. Top with More Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top of the chili mac. Cover the pot again and let it sit for a few minutes so the cheese can melt beautifully.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish your hearty dish with fresh chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and finely chopped onion. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese!
Can I Use Turkey or Chicken Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken is a great alternative and will still provide a delicious flavor. Just be sure to cook them thoroughly as you would the beef.
Is There a Vegetarian Option for This Dish?
Yes! You can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the meat and using additional beans like black beans or pinto beans for protein. You can also add more vegetables, like bell peppers or zucchini.
How Do I Store Leftover Chili Mac and Cheese?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen it up if it becomes too thick.
Can I Freeze This Chili Mac and Cheese?
Yes, you can freeze this dish! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
