Description
One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is a hearty and comforting American dish combining savory ground beef, robust chili spices, tender elbow macaroni, and creamy melted cheeses. Cooked entirely in one pot on the stovetop, this easy-to-make recipe balances rich flavors and textures with convenience, making it perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
Spices and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Liquids and Legumes
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups beef broth
Pasta and Cheese
- 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Garnish (Optional)
- Chopped parsley or green onions
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary to reduce greasiness.
- Spice It Up: Stir in the tomato paste, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute to allow the spices to bloom and deepen in flavor.
- Add Liquids and Pasta: Incorporate the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, beef broth, and uncooked elbow macaroni. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 12–15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and creamy throughout the dish.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from heat and let the chili mac and cheese rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to taste.
- Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat for a different protein option.
- Leftovers reheat well in the microwave or on the stovetop and can be frozen for future meals.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
