This One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s rich and cheesy, packed with pasta, hearty chili, and all cooked together in just one pot—less mess, more yum!
You’ll love how quick it is to whip up. I often make it when I want comfort food without the fuss. Plus, who can resist cheese? Grab a spoon and get ready for a cozy meal! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This gives the chili its hearty texture. If you prefer, you can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, use lentils or a meat substitute like Beyond Meat.
Kidney Beans: They add protein and fiber. You can easily replace them with black beans or pinto beans if you have them on hand. Canned beans save time, but dried beans can be cooked and used too—just soak them beforehand!
Diced Tomatoes: These add moisture and flavor. If you want a fresher taste, feel free to use fresh tomatoes instead—just chop them up and increase the cooking time until they break down.
Cheddar Cheese: This is key for creaminess. While I love sharp cheddar for its strong flavor, you could try Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a kick! For a dairy-free option, use vegan cheese alternatives.
How Can I Ensure the Pasta Cooks Perfectly?
Cooking the pasta in the same pot is a time-saver, but it needs some attention to get it just right. Here’s how:
- Make sure to stir the mixture occasionally while it simmers. This prevents the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested cooking time. Different brands of pasta can have variations.
- If the mixture seems too thick, you can stir in a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked pasta that’s full of flavor!
One Pot Chili Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound 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 juices)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese will take around 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to cook, with a total of about 35-40 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick to make and easy to clean up since everything is cooked in one pot!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with the Base:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the diced onion. Cook for about 3 minutes until the onion is translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until you can smell the wonderful aroma.
2. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the pot. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Keep cooking for about 5-7 minutes until the beef is nicely browned. If there’s too much fat once it’s cooked, feel free to drain some off.
3. Spice It Up:
Now, it’s time to add flavor! Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until the beef and onions are well coated with the spices.
4. Mix in the Rest:
Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (don’t forget to include their juices!), the drained kidney beans, beef broth, and water. Give it all a good stir so everything is combined nicely.
5. Get Cooking with Pasta:
Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the uncooked elbow macaroni. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure the pasta doesn’t stick to the pot.
6. Add the Cheese:
Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and makes everything creamy.
7. Final Touch:
Sprinkle some extra shredded cheese on top and cover the pot with a lid. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Scoop into bowls and dig in! Your cozy and flavorful One Pot Chili Mac And Cheese is ready to be enjoyed!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives for a leaner dish. Just cook them in the same way as the ground beef, and you won’t notice a difference!
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative. You can also add more beans or veggies like bell peppers and zucchini for added nutrition!
Can I Prepare This in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chili mac ahead of time! Cook it, let it cool, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on low, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen it up as needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing. Thaw in the fridge before reheating!
