This One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is pure comfort food! It’s got tender pasta mixed with spicy chili and creamy cheese, making every bite warm and satisfying.
I love how everything cooks in one pot, which means less cleaning! Plus, it’s hearty enough to be a meal on its own. Just add some bread, and you’re good to go!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: For a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey or shredded chicken. If you prefer a vegetarian option, use lentils or a plant-based meat alternative for the same satisfying texture.
Cheddar Cheese: While cheddar is classic, feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack if you want a bit of spice. For a dairy-free option, try using vegan cheese shreds that melt well.
Beans: Kidney beans are great, but if you have black beans or pinto beans on hand, they’ll work just as nicely. They add protein and fiber to the dish.
Chili Powder: If you like it spicier, consider adding cayenne pepper or using a spicy chili powder blend. If you want more depth of flavor, smoked paprika can do the trick too.
How Do I Prevent My Pasta from Sticking?
When cooking pasta in a one-pot dish, sticking can be an issue. To combat this, be sure to stir your mixture occasionally during cooking. This keeps the pasta separate and ensures even cooking.
- Use plenty of liquid; the pasta needs it to cook properly. If the mixture looks too thick, add a little more water or broth.
- Make sure to cover the pot while simmering, which helps keep the moisture in.
- After cooking, if you notice some sticking, a splash of warm water or broth just before serving can loosen it right up.
One Pot Chili Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and about 20-25 minutes for cooking. So, in total, you’ll spend about 35-40 minutes making this delicious one-pot meal. It’s quick, easy, and so satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heating Things Up:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the ground beef. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, using a spoon to break up the meat as it cooks.
2. Add Those Veggies:
Next, toss in the finely chopped onion, diced red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook these for about 3-4 minutes until everything is softened and fragrant.
3. Get the Base Going:
Now, it’s time to stir in the diced tomatoes (don’t drain them), rinsed kidney beans, beef broth, water, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix it all together well and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Cook the Pasta:
Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the pot and stir. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking!
5. Cheese It Up!
Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and creamy.
6. Time to Serve:
Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve hot, and enjoy your hearty One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great, lean alternative to beef. It will still deliver a delicious flavor; you might want to add a bit more seasoning to enhance the taste since turkey is milder.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to moisten it up.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils, chopped mushrooms, or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for added flavor.
What If I Don’t Have Chili Powder?
If you’re out of chili powder, you can create a substitute using a mix of paprika, cumin, and a dash of cayenne pepper for heat. Alternatively, using taco seasoning can also add a good flavor profile to the dish!
