This One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is a cozy dish that combines pasta, ground meat, and beans all in one pot. It’s cheesy, hearty, and perfect for chilly days!
You really can’t beat a meal that requires minimal cleanup! I love how it comes together quickly, so I can serve it up and enjoy a nice bowl while binge-watching my favorite show. 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Turkey: Ground beef gives a rich flavor, but turkey is a lighter option. For a vegetarian twist, try using lentils or plant-based ground meat. I’m a fan of mixing in different meats for extra depth!
Beans: Kidney beans add protein and texture. You can substitute with black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas. I like to switch it up for variety, depending on what’s in my pantry.
Pasta: Elbow macaroni is traditional, but any short pasta like shells or rigatoni will work. Just remember, if you’re using a different shape, it might adjust cooking times slightly!
Cheese: Sharp cheddar is the star here! Monterey Jack or a cheese blend work well too. For a different flavor, consider pepper jack for a spicy kick. Always choose your favorite cheese for the best taste!
How Do I Ensure My Pasta is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta to the right tenderness is key! Here’s how to do it just right:
- Bring the chili mixture to a boil before adding the pasta. This helps the pasta cook evenly.
- Once added, keep the heat at medium-low. Covering the pot helps trap steam, cooking the pasta thoroughly.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. After about 12 minutes, check if the pasta is al dente (firm to the bite) and adjust cooking time if needed. If you find it’s too thick, simply add a bit more broth or water.
Trust your taste buds—the best way to know is to try it out! Enjoy your cooking!
One Pot Chili Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with juice
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 cup water
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: sliced jalapeños for extra heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10-15 minutes on prep time—chopping veggies and browning the meat—followed by about 15 minutes on the stove for cooking and thickening. Quick, easy, and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
Start by heating a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until it’s nicely browned, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. If there’s extra fat, drain it off!
2. Sauté the Veggies:
Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté everything together for about 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
3. Add the Spices:
Next, stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika (if using), and some salt and pepper. Cook this for about a minute to let the spices get toasty, releasing their lovely aroma!
4. Mix in the Liquids:
Now, add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), the drained kidney beans, beef broth, and water. Give it a good stir to combine everything evenly.
5. Bring to a Boil:
Turn up the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Make sure it’s evenly distributed in the pot.
6. Simmer:
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 12 minutes. Give it a little stir now and then to keep the pasta from sticking. You want it tender and most of the liquid absorbed!
7. Add the Cheese:
Remove the lid and stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and makes everything creamy. If it looks too thick, just add a splash of broth or water to get it just how you like it.
8. Finish with More Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese on top. Cover the pot once more and let it sit over low heat for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is gooey and melty.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your delicious chili mac with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley. If you’re feeling a bit spicy, top it off with sliced jalapeños. Serve hot and enjoy every cheesy, hearty bite!
Enjoy your hearty, cheesy, and flavorful One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese!
Can I Use Ground Chicken or Pork Instead?
Absolutely! You can swap out the ground beef or turkey for ground chicken or pork, depending on your preference. Just keep in mind that ground chicken is a bit milder in flavor, while pork will add a richer taste.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! To make it vegetarian, simply omit the meat and use extra beans or lentils for protein. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini, corn, or mushrooms for added flavor and texture!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. If it seems dry, add a little broth or water to help restore creaminess.
How Can I Make It Spicier?
If you like a bit more heat, try adding extra chili powder or include diced jalapeños when cooking. You can also serve with hot sauce or sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving!