This One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is a cozy dish that combines creamy cheese and zesty chili in one easy pot. Perfect for busy nights when you want comfort food fast!
You’ll love how everything cooks together, making clean-up a breeze. I also can’t resist adding a little extra cheese on top—because, honestly, who would? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish, providing flavor and protein. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could substitute ground turkey or even plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version.
Cheeses: I used cheddar and mozzarella for creaminess and a nice stretch. Feel free to swap the cheddar for Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a spicier kick. You can use vegan cheese for a dairy-free alternative.
Pasta: Elbow macaroni is classic, but you can replace it with shells or even whole wheat pasta if preferred. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, since some shapes may take longer to cook.
Spices: Chili powder and cumin give this dish its warmth and depth. If you want a bolder taste, try adding cayenne pepper or fajita seasoning. For a milder flavor, use less chili powder.
How Do You Achieve the Best Flavor in One Pot Chili Mac?
The key to a flavorful One Pot Chili Mac is layering flavors during cooking. Start by browning the ground beef, letting it develop a nice crust. Don’t rush the sautéing of onions and peppers; this builds the base flavor.
- Cook the meat on medium-high heat until it’s nicely browned, then drain excess fat for a leaner dish.
- Sauté onions and peppers until soft before adding garlic, which can burn quickly.
- Add spices early on with the tomatoes to let their flavors bloom.
With these steps, your Chili Mac will be full of rich, comforting flavors in every bite!
One Pot Chili Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 small green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’re looking at approximately 30 minutes from start to finish—which means dinner is served quickly, and cleanup is easy with just one pot!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large heavy-bottom pot or Dutch oven, heat over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it with a spoon as it cooks. Keep cooking until it’s browned and fully cooked—usually about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, just drain it out.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Stir them together and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the veggies are soft and fragrant. This is where your base flavors develop!
3. Add the Liquids and Seasonings:
Stir in the diced tomatoes (don’t drain), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Bring everything to a boil, stirring occasionally to combine.
4. Cook the Pasta:
Once boiling, add the uncooked elbow macaroni. Give it a good stir, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender, and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Make It Cheesy:
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in 1 cup of the cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of the mozzarella until everything is melted and creamy. It’s starting to look cheesy already!
6. Melt More Cheese:
Now, sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella over the top. Cover the pot again and let it sit for 2-3 minutes until the top is melted and gooey.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish your delicious chili mac with some freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy this hearty and comforting dish!
Dig in and enjoy every cheesy bite of your One Pot Chili Mac And Cheese, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef. Just follow the same cooking steps, and you’ll still achieve a deliciously hearty dish!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or even beans like black beans or kidney beans for added protein. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as some replacements might not need to be cooked as long.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you can add a splash of beef broth or water to help maintain creaminess and prevent it from drying out.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes, this One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It should keep well for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little liquid if needed to restore creaminess.
