This One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is a warm and cozy bowl of goodness! It combines tender pasta, spicy chili, and creamy cheese all cooked together in one pot—super easy cleanup!
You’ll love how all the flavors mix perfectly, making it fun and tasty. I like to sprinkle some extra cheese on top because who can resist a little more cheese, right? 😄
For me, this dish is great for busy evenings. Just toss everything in the pot, let it cook, and dinner is ready. Plus, it’s a hit with the whole family!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using ground beef for its rich flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try ground turkey or chicken instead, both can be just as tasty!
Kidney Beans: These add great texture and protein. If you’re not a fan, feel free to swap them out for black beans or pinto beans. They work well in this dish!
Elbow Macaroni: Elbow macaroni is my go-to, but you can use any short pasta like shells, penne, or fusilli. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but you can mix it up with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for an extra kick. A blend of cheeses also adds amazing flavor!
How Do You Get Flavorful Meat Without Drying It Out?
Getting juicy, flavorful beef is key to this dish! Start with a hot pot, so the meat browns nicely. Here’s how:
- Cook the beef over medium heat until it’s browned but not dry. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Don’t rush the onions and garlic; let them soften well for sweetness. This takes just a few minutes!
- When adding spices, toast them lightly to deepen their flavors before mixing in the tomatoes and beans.
The combination of these steps will give you a delicious base for your chili mac!
One Pot Chili Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
For the Seasoning:
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheese:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese blend)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese will take about 30 minutes total. You’ll need around 10 minutes to prep all your ingredients and about 20 minutes to cook it on the stove.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook until it’s no longer pink, making sure to break it apart as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add Onion and Garlic:
Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook everything together until the onions are soft, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This adds great flavor!
3. Season It Up:
Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the meat and onions evenly with the spices; this step makes all the difference in flavor!
4. Combine Remaining Ingredients:
Now, pour in the diced tomatoes (including their juice), the drained kidney beans, beef broth, and uncooked elbow macaroni. Give it a good stir to combine everything together.
5. Cook the Mac and Cheese:
Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking until the macaroni is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
6. Add the Cheese:
Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into a creamy delight. It’s time to bring this dish to life!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, scoop out the chili mac into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting goodness!
This hearty, cheesy dish is perfect for cozy nights and easy clean-up. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just be sure to cook it until fully browned, just like you would with beef.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply omit the ground beef and replace it with 1 cup of chopped mushrooms or a plant-based meat substitute. You can also increase the amount of kidney beans for protein!
Can I Customize the Spice Level?
Yes! If you like your chili mac spicier, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a milder version, you can reduce the chili powder or skip it completely!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick.
