This One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is a warm and cozy meal that combines the best of both worlds! Creamy cheese and hearty chili all in one pot—talk about a win!
It’s super easy to make, which means less time washing dishes and more time enjoying it on the couch! I love how it all comes together in just one pot—perfect for busy weeknights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the hearty base for your dish. You can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Vegetarian? Try using lentils or a plant-based meat alternative instead!
Beans: Kidney beans add protein and fiber. If you don’t have them, black beans or pinto beans work just as well. Both add a nice creamy texture.
Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice for that melty goodness. For a twist, use pepper jack for a bit of heat or a blend of your favorites! Vegan cheese alternatives can be used for dairy-free diets.
Pasta: Elbow macaroni is traditional, but feel free to swap it out for whole wheat pasta or gluten-free options if needed. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type you choose!
How Can I Make Sure My Macaroni Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta in the pot with other ingredients can be tricky, but with the right steps, it becomes simple! Follow these tips to get your macaroni just right:
- Cook on medium heat when boiling; adjust as needed to avoid overcooking.
- Stir occasionally. This prevents sticking and helps everything cook evenly.
- Check doneness around the 10-minute mark. You want it al dente, meaning firm but not hard!
If it’s too thick, simply add a dash of broth or water to reach your preferred creaminess. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make One Pot Chili Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 3 cups beef broth or water
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 30 minutes to enjoy a delicious pot of Chili Mac and Cheese!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a splash of oil in a large deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add in the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Keep cooking until it’s browned and no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat if needed!
2. Add Onions and Garlic:
Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir and cook until the onion becomes soft, about 3 minutes. This adds great flavor!
3. Season It Up:
Now, it’s time to season! Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about a minute until everything is fragrant. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
4. Combine the Rest of the Ingredients:
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, drained kidney beans, and beef broth. Give everything a good stir to combine. This is where the magic starts happening!
5. Add the Macaroni:
Now, add the uncooked elbow macaroni into the mix. Bring everything to a boil over high heat.
6. Simmer Until Tender:
Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer. Cover the pot partially with a lid and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll want the macaroni to be tender with most of the liquid absorbed.
7. Add the Cheese:
Time for a cheesy upgrade! Stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until everything is melted and creamy. Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
8. Finish It Off:
Remove from heat and sprinkle some extra cheese on top. Cover the pot for a couple of minutes to let the cheese melt beautifully.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish your chili mac and cheese with sliced green onions and chopped cilantro before serving. It’s ready to enjoy!
Bon Appétit! Enjoy your comforting, flavorful One Pot Chili Mac And Cheese!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat alternative like lentils or plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian meal.
What If I Don’t Have Beef Broth?
No problem! You can use water instead, but using beef broth will add more flavor. Chicken broth or vegetable broth are great options that work just as well!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Customize the Cheese?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in your favorite cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick, or a blend of cheeses. Dairy-free alternatives can also be used if you’re following a vegan diet!
