This One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is a warm and cozy dish that combines pasta, gooey cheese, and a tasty chili mix—all in one pot! Perfect for a family dinner.
You’ll love how easy it is to clean up afterward. Who doesn’t enjoy a tasty meal without the big mess? Plus, it’s great comfort food on a chilly day! 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using ground beef for its rich flavor, but ground turkey or chicken is a lighter option that works great too. If you’re vegetarian, try using soy crumbles or lentils instead.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese is classic here. Feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicier kick. If you want a dairy-free version, use a plant-based cheese that melts well.
Beans: Kidney beans are my go-to, but black beans or pinto beans are good substitutes. They add their own unique flavor and texture!
Pasta: While elbow macaroni is traditional, corkscrew pasta or any other short pasta works perfectly as well. Gluten-free pasta is an option if you need it to be gluten-free.
How Do You Make Sure the Pasta Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta perfectly in this one-pot dish is super important. Keep these tips in mind for great results:
- Bring the mixture to a full boil before covering. This helps cook the pasta evenly.
- Stir occasionally. This prevents the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Test the pasta a minute or two before the suggested cooking time. Pasta should be al dente, meaning firm but cooked through.
- If the pasta absorbs too much liquid, add a splash more broth or water—no worries!
How to Make One Pot Chili Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 1/2 cups beef broth (or water)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, making the total time around 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Meat:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook it until it’s nicely browned. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks, so it cooks evenly.
2. Add the Veggies:
Once the meat is browned, toss in the diced onion. Cook it for about 3-4 minutes until it softens. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant and you can smell it!
3. Seasoning Time:
Add the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika (if using), and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir everything together and cook for about a minute to let those spices really bloom and release their flavors.
4. Combining Ingredients:
Now, add the uncooked elbow macaroni, diced tomatoes with their juice, drained kidney beans, and beef broth. Give it all a good stir so that everything is combined well.
5. Cooking the Pasta:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has absorbed. You might need to adjust the cooking time slightly depending on your stove.
6. Making it Cheesy:
Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and creamy. The cheese makes everything so rich and delicious!
7. Optional Extra Cheese:
If you’re feeling extra cheesy, sprinkle some more shredded cheddar on top! Cover the pot again for a couple of minutes to let it melt from the residual heat.
8. Serve and Garnish:
Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Now you’re ready to enjoy your comforting One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese!
Dig in and enjoy your cozy meal!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives for a lighter dish. You can also use plant-based meat substitutes if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
If you like some heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when mixing in the spices. You can also use spicy diced tomatoes or add hot sauce just before serving!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen it up if it gets too thick.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and substitute the beef with lentils, soy crumbles, or your favorite meat alternative. It will still be hearty and delicious!