This One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is a cozy dish that combines cheesy pasta with hearty chili. It’s all made in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze!
No one can resist a creamy, cheesy meal like this. I love how the flavors all mingle together. Perfect for nights when you want comfort food without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein that makes the dish hearty. If you prefer, ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, try using plant-based ground meat or even lentils!
Elbow Macaroni: Classic choice for mac and cheese! You can use gluten-free pasta if you’re avoiding gluten. Other shapes like shells or penne also work well, just adjust cooking time a bit.
Kidney Beans: They add fiber and protein. Black beans or chickpeas can be substituted if you like. Canned beans save time, but you can cook dried beans from scratch if preferred!
Cheese: Cheddar is a favorite for its meltiness and flavor. Feel free to mix it up with mozzarella for extra gooeyness or pepper jack for a bit of spice. Dairy-free cheese can be used for a lactose-free option.
How Do I Get the Pasta Just Right Without Overcooking It?
Cooking the pasta properly is key to this dish. You want it tender but still firm to the bite. The method is pretty straightforward!
- Stir your pasta into the simmering broth mixture and make sure it’s submerged.
- Set a timer for about 12-15 minutes of cook time.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and check for doneness at around 10 minutes.
- Remember, it will continue cooking slightly even after you remove it from heat!
This method keeps things simple while ensuring you get perfectly cooked pasta every time. Enjoy your one-pot wonder!
One Pot Chili Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth (or water)
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese takes about 10 minutes to prepare and roughly 15-20 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick, flavorful meal ready in about 30-35 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Beef:
Start by heating a large deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it, breaking it apart with a spatula until it’s browned all over and cooked through. If there’s excess fat, carefully drain it out before moving to the next step.
2. Adding Aromatics:
Once the beef is cooked, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté these together for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. The garlic will add a lovely aroma!
3. Toasting the Spices:
Next, sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for about 1 minute. This helps release the flavors of the spices and makes the dish even more delicious.
4. Mixing in the Pasta and Liquids:
Now it’s time to add the uncooked elbow macaroni, drained kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with all those tasty juices), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix everything together well so the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
5. Cooking the Pasta:
Bring the entire mixture to a good boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom, and check the pasta for doneness. It should be tender and most of the liquid should be absorbed.
6. Melting the Cheese:
Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from heat. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the chili mac, then cover it again for about 3-5 minutes. This will help the cheese melt perfectly!
7. Garnishing:
After the cheese has melted, remove the cover and top your chili mac and cheese with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor and color.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to dig in! Scoop generous portions into bowls and enjoy this warm, creamy, and comforting one pot chili mac and cheese. Easy and satisfying!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative to ground beef. It will change the flavor slightly, but it will still be delicious. Make sure to adjust cooking time as necessary, as turkey may cook faster.
What Can I Substitute for the Kidney Beans?
If you don’t have kidney beans on hand, black beans or pinto beans work perfectly as substitutes. They both add similar texture and nutrition. If you’re looking for a different twist, try using corn instead!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance! Just follow the steps until cooking the pasta, then let it cool before refrigerating. When ready to eat, reheat it on the stove and add a little extra broth if needed to loosen it up.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain creaminess. Enjoy it again without the fuss of cooking!
