One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese
One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is a quick, comforting dish that combines the bold flavors of chili with creamy, cheesy pasta - all in one pot.Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s easy to customize with your choice of protein, veggies, and spice level. With a short prep time and easy cleanup, this hearty meal will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey or plant-based crumbles for vegetarian option
- 1 small onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1 can 15 oz diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can 15 oz black or kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil for sautéing
Optional toppings:
- Sour cream, green onions, jalapeños, crushed tortilla chips, or avocado slices
Instructions
Cook the Ground Meat
- Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add olive oil and ground beef or turkey. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
Sauté Onion and Garlic
- Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute.
Season the Meat
- Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the meat and release the spices’ aroma.
Add Wet Ingredients and Pasta
- Pour in the canned tomatoes (with juice), beans, and broth. Add the uncooked macaroni and stir to combine.
Cook the Pasta
- Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
Stir in Cheese
- Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and creamy.
Serve and Garnish
- Spoon the chili mac into bowls. Top with your choice of garnishes like sour cream, green onions, or jalapeños.