This One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is a comforting dish that’s super easy to make! With creamy cheese, pasta, and hearty chili all cooked together, it’s a meal everyone will love.
No need for a million pots and pans! I enjoy how quick it is to whip up after a long day. Plus, who can resist that gooey, cheesy goodness? 👩🍳❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef brings a hearty flavor to this dish. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works great. For a vegetarian twist, consider using lentils or a meat substitute like Beyond Meat.
Elbow Macaroni: Elbow macaroni is classic for this recipe, but you can switch it up with shells, fusilli, or any short pasta you have on hand. Just remember to adjust cooking times if different pasta is used.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: This adds a nice kick! If you prefer less heat, use plain canned tomatoes and add a pinch of your favorite spice instead. For a fresh touch, you could also use fresh diced tomatoes.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my favorite for that tangy flavor. If you’re looking for a milder taste, you might use mild cheddar or a cheese blend. Vegan cheese can also be used for dairy-free options.
How Do You Get the Pasta Perfectly Cooked Without It Sticking?
Cooking pasta in one pot can seem tricky, but it’s all about timing and mixing! Start by making sure you stir the pasta after adding it to the pot; this helps prevent sticking.
- Bring your mixture to a good boil before adding the pasta.
- Once you add the macaroni, give it a good stir to ensure it’s fully submerged.
- Cover the pot to maintain heat, but remember to remove the lid occasionally to stir. This way, the pasta won’t stick to the bottom!
Following these tips will help you achieve that perfect, creamy chili mac and cheese everyone will love!
One Pot Chili Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chili Mac:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz / 400g) diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional)
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese can be prepared in about 30 minutes. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and about 20 minutes cooking. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking The Beef:
Start by heating a large skillet or wide pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s browned and cooked through. This should take about 5-6 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat if necessary!
2. Sautéing The Vegetables:
Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook them together until the onion becomes translucent, which takes around 3-4 minutes. This adds flavor to your dish!
3. Adding Spices:
Now, stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the meat and onions with all those delicious spices. This is where the magic happens!
4. Mixing In The Liquids:
Next, pour in the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies (make sure to include all the juices), beef broth, and milk. Stir everything together so it’s all combined.
5. Adding The Pasta:
Pour in the uncooked elbow macaroni and give it a good stir to ensure every piece of pasta is submerged in the liquid. This part is important for even cooking!
6. Cooking The Macaroni:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking. You’ll know it’s ready when the pasta is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
7. Stirring In The Cheese:
Remove the pot from heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese (if using). Stir until everything is melted and creamy—yum!
8. Melting The Topping Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top. Cover the pot again and let it sit for 2-3 minutes off the heat to allow the cheese to melt beautifully.
9. Adding Garnish:
Finally, garnish your chili mac with sliced green onions and chopped fresh cilantro before serving. This adds a fresh flavor and a pop of color!
Enjoy your comforting, cheesy, one pot chili mac! It’s so simple to make and perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef, making your dish lighter while still delicious. Just make sure to monitor the cooking time, as turkey can cook a bit faster.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or your favorite meat substitute. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and you’ll have a hearty, vegetarian chili mac.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in any of your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers, corn, or zucchini. Just chop them finely and add them when you sauté the onions for a deliciously colorful and nutritious meal!
