This One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food! It combines creamy cheese with hearty chili and pasta, all cooked in one pot for easy clean-up.
You can’t go wrong with this dish. It’s cheesy, spicy, and filling—all in one bowl! I love making it on busy nights when I want something quick and tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the base protein for the dish. If you prefer a healthier option, try using ground turkey or lean ground beef. For a vegetarian twist, substitute with lentils or plant-based meat crumbles.
Kidney Beans: They add a hearty texture and boost protein. If you’re not a fan, you can swap them for black beans or pinto beans. Beans are also optional if you want a lighter meal.
Cheese: Cheddar delivers that classic mac and cheese flavor. If you’re dairy-free, look for plant-based cheese options. You can also mix in pepper jack for extra heat!
Pasta: Elbow macaroni is traditional, but you can use any small pasta, like shells or fusilli. For gluten-free needs, replace it with gluten-free pasta.
How Can I Prevent My Pasta from Sticking Together?
Keeping the pasta from sticking can be tricky, but here are some tips. Stir the macaroni immediately after adding it to the boiling broth for an even cook. It’s also crucial to keep the pot covered during simmering, which prevents excess steam from escaping.
- Make sure the boiling liquid is bubbling before adding the pasta.
- Stir occasionally while it cooks to break up any clumps.
- Adding cheese will make it creamy but can also help bind everything together.
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 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with juice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup elbow macaroni pasta (uncooked)
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional)
- 3 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This One Pot Chili Mac And Cheese takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes getting everything ready and about 20 minutes cooking. In just half an hour, you can enjoy this delicious and comforting meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, place the ground beef over medium-high heat. Cook it until it’s no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spoon. If there’s excess fat, carefully drain it off. This step gives your dish a hearty base!
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Stir and cook until the onion becomes soft and translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This will add a lovely flavor aroma to your dish!
3. Season the Beef Mixture:
Now, stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let this cook for about 1 minute until the spices become fragrant. This step adds lots of flavor!
4. Combine All Ingredients:
Add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes with juice, beef broth, and water to the pot. Stir everything together to combine all the ingredients nicely.
5. Cook the Pasta:
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, add the uncooked elbow macaroni and stir well to distribute. It’s important to ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
6. Simmer:
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You want the pasta to be perfectly tender.
7. Add Cheese:
Remove the lid and stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, if using. Gently mix until the cheese is completely melted, creating a creamy texture.
8. Taste and Adjust:
Give your dish a taste. If needed, adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper for flavor.
9. Serve and Garnish:
Serve the chili mac hot, garnished with sliced green onions and chopped cilantro. This adds a fresh and colorful touch to your meal!
Enjoy your hearty, cheesy, and spicy One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese! This dish is sure to warm your heart and fill your belly!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef to make the dish lighter. Just keep in mind that turkey might need a little extra seasoning to boost the flavor!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat crumbles. Additionally, make sure to use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian-friendly meal.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen it up.
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
If you’d like to amp up the flavor, consider adding some diced bell peppers, corn, or even a tablespoon of hot sauce for a kick. Fresh lime juice squeezed on top just before serving can also brighten the flavors!
