This One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is a comforting dish packed with pasta, beef, beans, and cheese—all cooked together in one pot! It’s easy to make and perfect for a cozy dinner.
I love how this recipe saves on dishes because everything cooks in one pot. Plus, the cheesy goodness will make you want to go back for seconds—trust me, it happens every time! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using ground beef for its rich flavor, but you can easily swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you’re vegetarian, try using mushrooms or lentils!
Beans: Kidney beans and pinto beans add nutrition and texture. If you’re looking for a different flavor, black beans or chickpeas works great too. Canned beans are a time-saver, but dried beans can be cooked ahead for a more authentic taste.
Cheese: Cheddar is a classic, but feel free to experiment! Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack can provide a nice twist. Vegan cheese can also be used for a dairy-free option.
Pasta: I prefer elbow macaroni because it holds the sauce well. You can use any short pasta like penne or fusilli if you don’t have elbows on hand.
How Can You Achieve the Perfect Flavor Balance?
The spices in this dish are key to its flavor. Start with sautéing the onions and garlic until they’re fragrant, which is usually about 3-4 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base. Make sure to toast your spices—just 1 minute can enhance their flavors immensely!
- Don’t rush the browning of the beef; it adds depth to the final dish.
- When adding the broth, keep in mind that the pasta needs room to cook and absorb the flavors, so ensure there’s enough liquid.
- Stir periodically to stop the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot, ensuring even cooking.
Enjoy creating your One Pot Chili Mac And Cheese! Happy cooking! 😊
One Pot Chili Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sliced green onions
- 1 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This One Pot Chili Mac And Cheese takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. Within this time, you can have a delicious, hearty meal that the whole family will enjoy—all without the hassle of washing multiple pots and pans!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
In a large, deep skillet or pot, heat up the olive oil over medium-high heat. Then add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook it until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. This step adds great flavor to your dish!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Next, toss in the chopped onions, garlic, and diced green bell pepper with the beef. Sauté everything together for about 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and fragrant. Your kitchen will start smelling amazing!
3. Spice It Up:
Now, stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for about 1 minute to really bring out the spices’ flavor. This gives your chili mac that signature taste!
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (juice and all), the rinsed beans, the beef broth, and the uncooked elbow macaroni. Stir it all up to combine everything, then bring the mixture to a boil. Don’t rush this part; just let it bubble away for a bit!
5. Simmer and Cook the Pasta:
Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, making sure to stir occasionally to stop the pasta from sticking to the bottom. You’re looking for the pasta to be cooked al dente and for most of the liquid to be absorbed.
6. Add the Cheese:
Once the pasta is cooked, remove the lid and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover the pot again for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt beautifully.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish your dish with chopped fresh cilantro and sliced green onions before serving hot. Enjoy your scrumptious, cheesy One Pot Chili Mac And Cheese!
This hearty, comforting meal is perfect for busy weeknights and it’s all made in one pot, which means less clean-up for you. Enjoy every cheesy bite! 😋
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works just as well in this recipe. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as turkey can dry out if overcooked.
What Type of Cheese Can I Use?
You can substitute cheddar cheese with other types like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for added flavor. For a dairy-free version, try using vegan cheese shreds!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add other veggies like corn, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure they are diced small enough to cook through during the simmering stage.
