One Pot Chili Mac

This hearty and comforting One Pot Chili Mac combines the flavors of classic beef chili, macaroni pasta, and rich melted cheese. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd, making about 10 cups so you can enjoy leftovers for days! With its bold flavors and creamy texture, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Main Ingredients
• Optional Toppings
• How to Make One Pot Chili Mac
• Step 1: Heat the Oil
• Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
• Step 3: Cook the Beef
• Step 4: Add Spices and Garlic
• Step 5: Combine Main Ingredients
• Step 6: Simmer
• Step 7: Finish with Cream and Cheese
• Step 8: Serve
• How to Serve One Pot Chili Mac
• Classic Toppings
• Family-Style Serving
• Leftover Ideas
• How to Perfect One Pot Chili Mac
• Best Side Dishes for One Pot Chili Mac
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing One Pot Chili Mac
• Reheating One Pot Chili Mac
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I make One Pot Chili Mac vegetarian?
• How spicy is this One Pot Chili Mac?
• What toppings go well with One Pot Chili Mac?
• Can I use different types of cheese?
• How do I know when the pasta is done?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just one pot needed, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of spices and ingredients creates a deliciously rich flavor that satisfies any craving.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner, game day, or a potluck with friends.
• Great Leftovers: This recipe yields ample servings, making it ideal for meal prep or enjoying throughout the week.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level or add your favorite toppings to make it your own!

Tools and Preparation

To whip up this delightful One Pot Chili Mac, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking all ingredients together without needing multiple dishes.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware while mixing ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient amounts for balanced flavors in your dish.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious One Pot Chili Mac:

Main Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 ½ cups chopped yellow onion
• 1 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1 lb 93% lean ground beef
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
• 4 teaspoons chili powder
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can low-sodium chicken broth, plus ½ cup more to thin if needed
• 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies (mild or hot, based on preference)
• 8 oz dry elbow macaroni (2 cups)
• 1 (15 oz) can dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ½ cup half and half (or ⅓ cup heavy cream)
• 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus more for serving if desired

Optional Toppings

• Sliced green onions
• Sour cream
• Diced tomatoes
• Cayenne pepper

How to Make One Pot Chili Mac

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Push this mixture to one side of the pot.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

Add the ground beef in chunks to the cleared space. Let it sear for about 3 minutes. Break up the beef and mix with the onion and peppers. Cook until the beef is nearly cooked through, about 2 minutes.

Step 4: Add Spices and Garlic

Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Stir for 1 minute to toast the spices.

Step 5: Combine Main Ingredients

Pour in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and diced green chilies. Stir in macaroni and kidney beans. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally until pasta is tender—about 12–15 minutes.

Step 7: Finish with Cream and Cheese

Remove from heat. Stir in half and half and shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Add more chicken broth if you prefer a thinner consistency.

Step 8: Serve

Serve with your favorite toppings like sliced green onions, sour cream, diced tomatoes, or extra cheese.

This delicious One Pot Chili Mac is sure to impress! Enjoy this warm comfort food any night of the week!

How to Serve One Pot Chili Mac

One Pot Chili Mac is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in several ways. Whether you want it simple or dressed up, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal experience.

Classic Toppings

• Sliced Green Onions – Adds a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
• Sour Cream – Provides a creamy contrast to the spicy flavors.
• Diced Tomatoes – Offers a juicy burst of freshness in each bite.
• Cayenne Pepper – For those who love extra heat, sprinkle it on top.

Family-Style Serving

• In a Large Bowl – Serve directly from the pot for a cozy family dinner.
• Individual Bowls – Portion out for easy servings, perfect for kids or guests.

Leftover Ideas

• Chili Mac Casserole – Layer with cheese and bake for a comforting second-day meal.
• Stuffed Peppers – Use leftovers to fill bell peppers, bake, and enjoy a new twist.

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How to Perfect One Pot Chili Mac

Perfecting your One Pot Chili Mac is all about technique and ingredient choices. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Quality Ground Beef – Lean beef adds flavor without excess grease.
• Toast Your Spices – Cooking spices before adding liquids enhances their flavor profile.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Keep an eye on the pasta; you want it al dente for the best texture.
• Adjust Consistency with Broth – If it thickens too much, add more chicken broth gradually.
• Experiment with Cheese – Try different cheese blends for unique flavors and creaminess.

Best Side Dishes for One Pot Chili Mac

Pairing sides with your One Pot Chili Mac can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread – A classic side that complements the richness of chili mac perfectly.
2. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing adds freshness to your plate.
3. Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread balances the spicy flavors of the chili mac.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized make for a healthy addition.
5. Coleslaw – A tangy slaw adds crunch and cuts through the richness of the dish.
6. Steamed Broccoli – Simple and nutritious, it adds color and fiber to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making One Pot Chili Mac can be straightforward, but a few common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the macaroni for too long can make it mushy. Aim for al dente to maintain texture.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasoning can result in bland flavors. Always taste as you go and adjust salt and spices to your preference.
• Using Low-Quality Cheese: Cheap cheese may not melt well, affecting creaminess. Opt for high-quality sharp cheddar for the best results.
• Skipping the Searing Step: Not searing the beef properly can lead to less flavor. Take the time to brown the meat to enhance the dish’s richness.
• Not Letting It Simmer Long Enough: Rushing through simmering can lead to tough pasta. Ensure you allow enough time for flavors to meld and pasta to soften.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The One Pot Chili Mac will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing One Pot Chili Mac

• Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating One Pot Chili Mac

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer a serving to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high in 1-minute intervals until warm, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of chicken broth or water in a pan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making One Pot Chili Mac:

Can I make One Pot Chili Mac vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How spicy is this One Pot Chili Mac?

The spice level depends on the type of green chilies used. For mild chili mac, choose mild green chilies; for extra heat, go with hot ones.

What toppings go well with One Pot Chili Mac?

Popular toppings include sliced green onions, sour cream, diced tomatoes, and extra cheese for added flavor.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for different flavor profiles.

How do I know when the pasta is done?

The pasta should be tender but still firm (al dente). If it’s mushy, it has been overcooked.

Final Thoughts

One Pot Chili Mac is a deliciously hearty meal that combines comforting flavors into one pot. Its versatility allows for endless customization—feel free to adjust spices or add your favorite toppings. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how simple and satisfying it is!