This One Pot Chili Mac And Cheese is a cozy dish that brings together creamy cheese, hearty chili, and pasta, all cooked in one pot. Less mess, more yum!
If you love cheesy goodness and a little spice, this is the meal for you! I usually make it when I want something warm and filling without much fuss. It’s a win-win! 😊
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using ground beef for its rich flavor, but you can swap it for ground turkey for a lighter version. Even lentils or plant-based ground can work for a vegetarian option!
Onion: A small onion adds so much depth. If you’re in a hurry, use frozen chopped onions or onion powder as a quick substitute.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is the best for flavor, but if you’re out, garlic powder will do. Use 1/4 teaspoon for every clove you would usually add.
Diced Tomatoes: Fire-roasted diced tomatoes can add extra flavor. If you prefer, you can use crushed tomatoes or even fresh tomatoes—just chop them up finely!
Kidney Beans: If kidney beans aren’t your thing, swap them for black beans or pinto beans. They all work great!
Pasta: While elbow macaroni is classic, you can use any short pasta. Cavatappi or penne are excellent alternatives!
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is my go-to, but feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for some heat. Nutritional yeast is a good vegan alternative.
How Do You Ensure Your Pasta is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta in one pot is super easy but it can be tricky! Here’s how to nail it:
- Start by pouring in enough broth or water. The pasta should be fully submerged, so adjust as needed.
- After adding the pasta, stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This helps it cook evenly!
- Keep an eye on the time. Start checking for doneness a minute or two early—you want it al dente!
- If there’s still liquid in the pot but the pasta is done, remove it from heat and let it sit covered for a few minutes. The pasta will absorb the remaining liquid.
Using these tips will help you achieve perfectly cooked pasta every time! Enjoy your One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese with confidence!
One Pot Chili Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 2 ½ cups beef broth (or water with bouillon)
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Olive oil or cooking oil for sautéing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious One Pot Chili Mac And Cheese will take about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 20 minutes to cook, making it a quick meal that’s ready in just about 35 minutes. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy weekend treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a splash of olive oil, then toss in the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onion is soft and translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant—this will really enhance the flavor!
2. Cook the Meat:
Now, add your ground beef (or turkey) to the pot. Using a wooden spoon, break it up and cook until browned and fully cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s a lot of grease, feel free to drain some excess fat to keep the dish from being too oily.
3. Spice It Up:
Once the meat is cooked, it’s time to add some flavor! Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything well to ensure the meat is nicely coated with those spices.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes, the rinsed kidney beans, uncooked elbow macaroni, and the beef broth. Give everything a good stir to combine all the ingredients. This will be the base for your creamy chili mac!
5. Cook the Dish:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. Keep an eye on it to ensure the pasta is cooked and that most of the liquid is absorbed—it should be nice and creamy!
6. Stir in the Cheese:
Once the pasta is tender, remove the pot from heat. Stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and creamy. This is where the magic happens, turning it into a cheesy delight!
7. Melt the Topping Cheese:
Add the remaining ½ cup of cheese on top of your chili mac. Cover the pot again for a few minutes to let the cheese melt and become gooey. Trust me, you’ll want that cheesy topping!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty, cheesy One Pot Chili Mac And Cheese—it’s perfect for cozy nights in or feeding a crowd!
This recipe makes cleanup super easy since everything’s done in one pot, letting you focus on enjoying a delightful meal. Happy cooking!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or even chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or plant-based ground meat!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make this a vegan dish, use a plant-based ground meat alternative, replace the beef broth with vegetable broth, and use vegan cheese. It will still be creamy and delicious!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dish up to the point of adding the cheese and then refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove and stir in the cheese until melted.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chili mac in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water or broth to keep it moist.
