This One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is a cozy dish packed with flavor! You’ll love the creamy cheesy goodness mixed with hearty chili and pasta. And don’t worry, it all cooks in one pot!
It’s a great meal for busy nights when you want something tasty without a lot of cleanup. I enjoy adding my favorite toppings like chopped green onions or a sprinkle of cheese on top. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is a key protein that adds richness. You can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or even use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian twist!
Chili Powder: A blend that adds depth and warmth to the dish. If you’re out, a mix of paprika and cumin can work, just add a little more to taste. For milder flavor, use sweet paprika instead of chili powder.
Diced Tomatoes: These provide moisture and a nice tang. If you prefer fresh, you can use about 2 cups of chopped tomatoes. For extra flavor, consider adding a can of roasted tomatoes instead.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is perfect for that cheesy goodness! If you want a different flavor, feel free to switch to Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend for a more zesty kick.
How Do I Ensure My Pasta Cooks Perfectly in One Pot?
The pasta is a central part of this dish, so getting it just right is essential. Start by making sure the broth is boiling before you add the macaroni. This helps it cook evenly.
- Stir the pasta occasionally while it simmers to prevent sticking.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time since it can vary depending on the brand. Aim for ‘al dente’, which means it should still have a slight bite when you taste it.
- If it looks too thick or dry, you can always add a bit more broth or water as needed!
One Pot Chili Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For The Base:
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 2 cups beef or chicken broth
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans or black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
For The Topping:
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Sour cream, for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook, making a total of about 30 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Meat:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s much excess fat, drain it off to keep your dish from being greasy.
2. Add Aromatics:
Now, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan and cook them together for about 2-3 minutes until the onions start to soften and the garlic becomes fragrant. This adds a lovely flavor base to your dish!
3. Season the Mix:
Next, stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if you’re feeling spicy), salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute to let the spices toast a bit—this really brings out their flavors!
4. Introduce the Liquids:
Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices and the broth. Give everything a good stir to combine all those tasty ingredients.
5. Add Pasta and Beans:
Add in the elbow macaroni and beans (if you are using them). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
6. Stir in the Cheese:
Once the pasta is cooked, take the pot off the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s all melted and creamy. If it needs a little extra seasoning, feel free to adjust with more salt and pepper to suit your taste.
7. Serve it Up:
Serve the chili mac and cheese hot! Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley, and add a dollop of sour cream on top for an extra treat. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Now you’re all set to relish this warm, comforting One Pot Chili Mac And Cheese! Enjoy every bite! 🧀🍲
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use any small pasta like shells or penne. Just adjust the cooking time if you’re using a shape that takes longer to cook.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Simply swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat substitute, like lentils or crumbled tempeh. You can still use the same spices and follow the recipe as directed for a delicious vegetarian chili mac!
Can I Prepare This In Advance?
Yes! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen it up as needed.
What Are Some Good Toppings?
Mix it up with toppings like sliced jalapeños, green onions, or additional cheese. A squeeze of lime juice or some avocado slices also adds a refreshing touch!
