This One Pot Chili Mac And Cheese is a cozy meal that combines cheesy pasta with hearty chili in just one pot! It’s creamy, flavorful, and oh-so comforting.
I love how easy this dish is to whip up after a long day—just toss everything in, stir, and relax while it cooks. Plus, it’s perfect for the whole family—who doesn’t love cheese?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This provides protein and depth of flavor. You can easily swap it for ground turkey or chicken if you want a leaner option. For a vegetarian twist, try lentils or crumbled tempeh!
Chili Beans: These add a nice texture and flavor. If you don’t have chili beans, kidney or black beans work just as well! Canned beans save time; just rinse them to remove excess sodium.
Pasta: While elbow macaroni is classic, cavatappi or shells will add fun shapes! You can also use gluten-free pasta if needed—just watch the cooking times!
Cheese: Cheddar is a must for that gooey cheese goodness! If you’re looking for a lighter cheese, try a reduced-fat or vegan cheese alternative.
How Can I Ensure My Pasta is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta in one pot is super easy, but timing is key! Keep these tips in mind:
- Make sure the pasta is completely covered with the liquid. This helps it cook evenly.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, especially as it absorbs the liquid.
- If you notice the liquid evaporating too fast, add a little more broth or water—just a splash at a time!
- Check the pasta a minute or two before the time is up to catch it at the perfect tenderness.
By following these tips, you’ll create a delicious, creamy, and satisfying One Pot Chili Mac And Cheese. Enjoy!
One Pot Chili Mac And Cheese
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 (15 oz) can chili beans or kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups beef broth (can substitute chicken or vegetable broth)
- 1 cup water
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or a Mexican blend)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This One Pot Chili Mac And Cheese recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend around 10 minutes doing prep work and then about 20 minutes cooking everything in one pot. Quick and easy—perfect for busy weekdays!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
In a large deep skillet or cast-iron pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until browned. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, set it aside and drain any excess fat if needed.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the same pan. Cook for about 3 minutes, stirring until the onion is softened and translucent. This will enhance the flavor of the base.
3. Add the Spices:
Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika (if using), cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy), salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the meat and veggies evenly with the spices—this is where the flavor begins to build!
4. Combine the Main Ingredients:
Next, pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), drained beans, beef broth, and water. Stir everything together to combine well. You’re creating a delicious base for your chili mac!
5. Add the Pasta:
Now, add the pasta to the pan and make sure it’s submerged in the liquid. Bring everything to a gentle boil. It’s about to get even more delicious!
6. Simmer:
Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed. If you find the liquid evaporating too quickly, just add a little more broth or water as needed.
7. Melt the Cheese:
Once the pasta is tender, turn the heat to low and sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the top. Cover again and let it melt for about 3-5 minutes—this is the cheesy goodness we love!
8. Mix it Up:
Remove from heat and gently stir some of the melted cheese into the pasta and chili mixture. This will make it extra creamy and delicious!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your One Pot Chili Mac And Cheese immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream on top for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy this hearty, cheesy, and comforting meal!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives like lentils or crumbled tempeh for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times as needed!
How Do I Store Leftover Chili Mac And Cheese?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep it creamy.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Yes! If you love heat, consider adding more cayenne pepper or even some chopped jalapeños. You can also top it with hot sauce when serving for an extra kick!
What Can I Use Instead of Beef Broth?
You can substitute beef broth with chicken or vegetable broth without losing much flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, water can work in a pinch, though it may be less flavorful.
