One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese

One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, combining hearty chili flavors with creamy, cheesy macaroni. This easy, one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a satisfying balance of protein, carbs, and bold spices. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish the whole family will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder – Fewer dishes, less mess, and easy cleanup.
• Hearty and Filling – Packed with ground beef, beans, and pasta.
• Rich and Cheesy – A perfect balance of savory chili and creamy mac and cheese.
• Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Customizable – Adjust spice levels or add your favorite toppings.

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef (or turkey)
• Onion (chopped)
• Garlic (minced)
• Chili powder
• Cumin
• Paprika
• Salt and pepper
• Diced tomatoes (canned)
• Tomato sauce
• Beef or chicken broth
• Elbow macaroni
• Kidney beans or black beans (drained and rinsed)
• Cheddar cheese (shredded)
• Monterey Jack cheese (shredded)
• Milk or heavy cream (for extra creaminess)

Directions

1. Cook the Meat: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth. Stir in the uncooked macaroni and beans.
4. Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
5. Add Cheese: Stir in shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack until melted and creamy. Add milk or cream for extra richness.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, jalapeños, or sour cream if desired. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne.
• Healthier Version – Use ground turkey and whole wheat pasta.
• Vegetarian Option – Skip the meat and add extra beans or lentils.
• Creamy Upgrade – Stir in cream cheese for an extra rich texture.
• Loaded Toppings – Top with avocado, green onions, or crushed tortilla chips.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to maintain creaminess.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! It reheats well and tastes even better the next day.

What’s the best pasta to use?

Elbow macaroni works best, but you can use shells or penne.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Freshly shredded cheese melts better, but pre-shredded works in a pinch.

How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?

Cook just until al dente and don’t let it sit too long before serving.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free cheese and skip the milk or substitute with almond milk.

Can I use a different type of bean?

Absolutely! Pinto beans, black beans, or even chickpeas work well.

How do I make it extra cheesy?

Add an extra cup of shredded cheese or a dollop of cream cheese.

Can I cook this in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Use the sauté function for the beef, then pressure cook for 4 minutes.

What can I serve with Chili Mac and Cheese?

Garlic bread, cornbread, or a simple side salad pair perfectly.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and check that all ingredients are GF-certified.

Conclusion

One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is the perfect mix of cozy, hearty, and cheesy flavors in one easy dish. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe delivers bold taste with minimal effort. Try it today and enjoy a deliciously comforting dinner!

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