This One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is a cozy dish that’s both creamy and hearty. With macaroni, chili, and gooey cheese cooked all in one pot, it’s perfect for busy days!
You’ll love how simple it is to make, and the best part? Fewer dishes to wash! I like to top mine with some green onions for a pop of color and extra flavor. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: My favorite for this dish is ground beef due to its rich flavor, but ground turkey or chicken works well for a lighter option. For a vegetarian twist, consider using lentils or black beans.
Chili Beans: These are optional, but they add texture and flavor. If you don’t have them, feel free to use any canned beans like kidney beans or black beans. They’ll also boost the protein in the dish!
Diced Tomatoes: I like using diced tomatoes for their chunkiness, but you can swap in tomato sauce for a smoother texture. If you want a kick, try adding in some diced tomatoes with green chiles.
Pasta: Elbow macaroni is classic, but feel free to use any pasta shape you enjoy, like cavatappi or shells. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed!
Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my go-to for that perfect bite, but you can substitute with Monterey Jack or even a dairy-free option like cashew cheese for a vegan version. Mixing cheeses can enhance flavor too!
How Do I Ensure the Pasta is Cooked Perfectly Without Overcooking It?
The key to perfectly cooked pasta in this one pot dish is to keep an eye on it as it simmers. Here’s how to do it right:
- After adding uncooked pasta to the pot, make sure to stir it well to avoid sticking.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer. This helps the pasta cook evenly in the liquid.
- Check the pasta a few minutes before the suggested cooking time. You want it al dente, so it’ll continue to soften slightly as it sits.
- Don’t forget to taste! This is the best way to know when it’s just right.
If you follow these tips, your chili mac will have a delightful texture that everyone will love!
One Pot Chili Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can chili beans (optional)
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes (or tomato sauce)
- 2 cups beef broth (or water)
- 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni or pipette pasta
- 1 packet chili seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sliced jalapeños (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and cooking, and about 15-20 minutes simmering for all those flavors to come together. Easy-peasy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Beef and Onion:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the beef is well browned and the onion is soft. If there’s any excess fat, feel free to drain it off.
2. Add Garlic and Spices:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about a minute until it’s fragrant and flavorful. Then, sprinkle in the chili seasoning mix and smoked paprika. Stir well to get the meat coated with all those tasty spices.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with the juice), chili beans (if using), and beef broth. Mix everything together so it’s well combined. This will give your chili mac a hearty base.
4. Add the Pasta:
Now it’s time to add the uncooked elbow macaroni. Stir to make sure it’s well submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked and the sauce thickens up.
5. Melt the Cheese:
Taste your chili mac and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Now, sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly on top. Cover the pot and let it sit off the heat for 3-5 minutes—this will melt the cheese perfectly!
6. Garnish and Serve:
When the cheese is all melted and gooey, it’s time to serve! Garnish with sliced green onions, fresh cilantro, and jalapeños if you like a little heat. Enjoy your comforting and cheesy one pot chili mac!
This recipe truly brings together the gooey cheese, hearty flavors of chili, and comfort of macaroni, all in one fantastic dish!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for ground beef. It will give you a lighter dish while still providing plenty of flavor. Just be sure to cook it until fully browned to enhance the taste!
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the meat and use canned beans like black beans or lentils in its place. You can also add extra vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor!
What Should I Do If My Pasta Isn’t Cooking Properly?
If your pasta isn’t cooking through, it might need a little more liquid. Just add a splash more broth or water and keep simmering while stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. Remember to check for doneness a few minutes before the cooking time is up!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes! Store any leftover chili mac in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove, adding a little water or broth to loosen the sauce if it’s too thick.