Ultimate One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe Delight

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by deliciouscorner

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When you think of cozy evenings, a bowl of One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is likely not far behind. Imagine creamy cheese mingling with spicy chili flavors, creating a symphony of comfort that dances on your taste buds. spicy chili con carne As the aroma wafts through the air, you’ll feel the warmth enveloping you like a favorite blanket.

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This dish isn’t just food; it’s a memory-maker. Picture yourself gathered around the table with friends and family, laughter echoing as you savor each bite. Whether it’s game night or a rainy weekend, this crowd-pleaser turns any occasion into a feast of joy and satisfaction.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is quick and easy to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes
  • The combination of creamy cheese and zesty chili offers a flavor explosion in every bite
  • It’s visually appealing with its vibrant colors and enticing textures that make it irresistible
  • Perfect for busy weeknights but versatile enough for potlucks or casual gatherings

Sharing this dish at dinner parties always earns me rave reviews and requests for the recipe.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Elbow Macaroni: A classic choice for mac and cheese, these little curves hold onto the cheesy goodness perfectly. cheesy potato puffs. For more inspiration, check out this Green Chile Macaroni Delight recipe.
  • Ground Beef: Lean ground beef adds heartiness; feel free to swap it for turkey or plant-based options for variety. For more inspiration, check out this Cheesy Beef Wraps recipe.
  • Canned Tomatoes: Use diced tomatoes for added texture; they bring vibrant color and freshness to the dish.
  • Kidney Beans: These beans add protein and are essential for that chili vibe; drained well before adding them enhances the flavor.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Choose sharp cheddar for robust flavor; it melts beautifully into that creamy texture we all crave.
  • Chili Powder: This spice blend adds warmth and depth; adjust according to your heat preference.
  • Onion: A chopped onion brings sweetness when sautéed; it’s an aromatic base that elevates the entire dish.
  • Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds zing; I recommend using at least two cloves for maximum flavor impact.
  • Beef Broth or Stock: Using broth instead of water infuses extra flavor into the pasta as it cooks; choose low-sodium options if preferred.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Sautéing Aromatics: Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onions, stirring until they soften and turn translucent while filling your kitchen with delightful aromas.

Browning the Meat: Add ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart as it cooks. Stir until browned completely, ensuring no pink remains—this step builds that savory foundation.

Add in Spices and Veggies: Sprinkle in chili powder and mix well. Toss in canned tomatoes along with kidney beans, stirring everything together to combine those fantastic flavors.

Pasta Time!: Pour in uncooked elbow macaroni along with beef broth. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to let it simmer gently until pasta is tender—around 10-12 minutes should do the trick. meatball pasta bake.

The Cheesy Finale!: Once cooked, remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and gooey. You can add more cheese if you’re feeling adventurous!

Serve It Up!: Spoon generous portions into bowls while it’s hot! Feel free to top with extra cheese or fresh herbs for garnish—your taste buds will thank you later!

Enjoy this delicious One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese that’s sure to impress everyone at your table!

You Must Know

  • One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is a comfort food classic that’s quick to prepare, deliciously cheesy, and perfect for busy weeknights
  • The joy of cooking everything in one pot means fewer dishes to wash, leaving you more time to enjoy your meal

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground beef or turkey first, then add onions and garlic. After that, stir in the pasta and broth simultaneously to ensure even cooking and flavor absorption.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in different cheeses like pepper jack for extra heat or add black beans for a protein boost. You can also toss in some diced bell peppers or corn for added sweetness.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk if it seems too thick.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Keep your chili mac creamy by stirring often as it cooks
  • If you have leftovers, consider adding more cheese when reheating to enhance flavor
  • Use a mix of pasta shapes for added texture and visual appeal

Cooking this dish always reminds me of family gatherings where laughter filled the air, and everyone fought over the last cheesy scoop. Those simple moments make cooking worthwhile!

FAQ

Can I use gluten-free pasta for One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese?

chicken pesto pasta.

Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time according to package instructions for gluten-free pasta.

What can I add to make this dish spicier?

Add jalapeños or hot sauce during cooking for that fiery kick you crave.

Is it possible to make One Pot Chili Mac vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace meat with lentils or beans and use vegetable broth instead.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese


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  • Author: deleciouscorner
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6

Description

One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that’s both creamy and spicy, perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings. This quick, one-pot dish harmonizes tender elbow macaroni with zesty chili flavors and gooey cheddar cheese.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 tsp chili powder
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 cups beef broth (or stock)

Instructions

  1. In a large pot over medium heat, sauté minced garlic and chopped onions until softened.
  2. Add ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned.
  3. Stir in chili powder, then add diced tomatoes and kidney beans.
  4. Pour in uncooked elbow macaroni and beef broth; bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce heat to simmer for 10-12 minutes or until pasta is tender.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
  7. Serve hot with optional extra cheese or fresh herbs as garnish.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 465
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 680mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 27g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

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