This One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is a cozy hug in a bowl! With pasta, zesty chili, and creamy cheese all cooked together, it’s super tasty and easy to make.
You’ll love how everything cooks in one pot, cutting down on your dishes. I often whip this up on chilly nights – it warms you right up! 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using lean ground beef for a healthier option. If you prefer, you can substitute with ground turkey or even plant-based crumbles to make it meatless.
Kidney Beans: They add protein and fiber. If you’re not a fan, black beans or pinto beans also work great! You could skip them if you want a simpler dish, though.
Diced Tomatoes: These add moisture and flavor. Use fresh tomatoes if they are in season, or swap for crushed tomatoes for a chunky texture.
Cheeses: Cheddar is my go-to because it melts beautifully. If you can’t find Monterey Jack, feel free to add more cheddar or even pepper jack for a kick!
How Can I Make Sure My Macaroni is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the macaroni just right is key to this dish. Here’s how to nail it:
- Cook the macaroni in the same pot with other ingredients to absorb flavors.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time—12-15 minutes should do it, but check for doneness by tasting a piece.
- Stir occasionally while it simmers to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
If it gets too thick, just add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy masterpiece!
One Pot Chili Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped for garnish
- 1 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This One Pot Chili Mac And Cheese takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook. Including overall cooking and prep time, you can have this hearty meal ready in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add your finely chopped onion. Sauté it until it becomes soft and translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. The aroma will be delightful!
2. Add Garlic and Beef:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Now, add the ground beef into the pot. Cook it while stirring and breaking it up into smaller pieces until it is nicely browned and fully cooked, which should take about 6-8 minutes. If there’s extra fat in the pot, drain it off.
3. Spice It Up:
Now it’s time to add some flavor! Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until the beef is well-coated with all those lovely spices!
4. Combine the Main Ingredients:
Add the canned diced tomatoes (with their juice), drained kidney beans, beef broth, and the uncooked elbow macaroni to the pot. Give it a good stir to mix everything together.
5. Boil and Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to prevent sticking until the macaroni is tender and much of the liquid has absorbed.
6. Mix in the Cheese:
After everything is cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese, allowing them to melt into the mixture until it’s creamy and delicious.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
If you like, sprinkle some extra cheese on top and cover it for a couple of minutes to let it melt. Now, garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro for a fresh touch. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting, cheesy bowl of goodness!
This warm, hearty dish combines the flavors of chili and macaroni and cheese into a satisfying meal you can whip up quickly. Perfect for any weeknight dinner!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works well in this recipe. Just follow the same cooking instructions as you would for ground beef.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian! Swap the ground beef for a plant-based alternative like lentils or meatless crumbles, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it’s too thick.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes, One Pot Chili Mac And Cheese freezes well! Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.