One Pot Chili Mac

This One Pot Chili Mac is the ultimate comfort food, blending the savory tastes of beef chili with creamy macaroni and melted cheese. It’s a versatile dish that works perfectly for casual family dinners, game nights, or large gatherings. With minimal cleanup and quick preparation, this recipe will become a staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love This One Pot Chili Mac

This dish isn’t just delicious; it’s also incredibly practical.

• Easy to Make: With all ingredients cooked in one pot, you’ll save time on both cooking and cleanup.
• Flavorful: The combination of spices, cheese, and hearty ingredients creates a rich and satisfying meal.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite toppings or adjust spice levels to suit your taste.
• Great for Leftovers: This recipe yields about 10 cups, perfect for meal prep or enjoying the next day.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy pasta, while adults appreciate the robust chili flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make cooking your One Pot Chili Mac even easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• 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 and won’t scratch your pot’s surface.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop vegetables and prepare ingredients.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping quicker and safer.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious One Pot Chili Mac:

For the Main Dish

• 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

For Optional Toppings

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

How to Make One Pot Chili Mac

Step 1: Heat Oil and Sauté Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the onion and red bell pepper, sautéing for about 5 minutes until softened. Push the mixture to one side of the pot.

Step 2: Cook Ground Beef

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

Step 3: Add Garlic and Spices

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 4: Combine Remaining Ingredients

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

Step 5: Simmer Until Pasta is Tender

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

Step 6: Add Cream and Cheese

Remove from heat. Stir in half-and-half and shredded cheese until melted and creamy. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add more chicken broth as needed.

Step 7: Serve with Toppings

Serve your delicious One Pot Chili Mac with optional toppings like sliced green onions, sour cream, diced tomatoes, or extra cheese for an added kick!

How to Serve One Pot Chili Mac

One Pot Chili Mac is a delightful dish that can be customized with various toppings and sides. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal experience.

Classic Toppings

• Sliced Green Onions: Fresh green onions add a nice crunch and vibrant color.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream provides creaminess and balances the spice.
• Diced Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes can brighten up the dish and add freshness.
• Cayenne Pepper: For those who enjoy extra heat, sprinkle cayenne on top for a spicy kick.

Cheesy Additions

• Extra Shredded Cheese: Melt additional cheese on top for an indulgent touch.
• Creamy Avocado: Diced avocado offers richness and a creamy texture.

Crunchy Extras

• Tortilla Chips: Serve with crunchy tortilla chips for added texture and flavor.
• Cornbread Muffins: Pairing with cornbread muffins makes for a comforting meal option.

How to Perfect One Pot Chili Mac

To make your One Pot Chili Mac even more delicious, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Spices: Use fresh spices or toast them in the pot to enhance their flavor.
• Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality ground beef and cheese for the best taste.
• Simmer Gently: Allow the dish to simmer on low heat for rich flavors to develop.
• Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thinner consistency, add extra chicken broth gradually.
• Ingredient Variations: Feel free to mix in different vegetables like zucchini or corn for added nutrition.
• Taste as You Go: Regularly taste your dish while cooking to adjust seasoning accordingly.

Best Side Dishes for One Pot Chili Mac

Serving One Pot Chili Mac with complementary side dishes enhances your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the chili mac’s sauce while adding incredible flavor.
2. Coleslaw: A fresh, crunchy coleslaw can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty mac.
3. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet grilled corn adds a fun element and pairs beautifully with chili flavors.
4. Caesar Salad: Crisp Romaine lettuce with creamy dressing brings balance and freshness to your plate.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies add color and nutrients alongside your main dish.
6. Corn Fritters: These sweet, crispy treats complement the savory chili mac perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making One Pot Chili Mac can be simple, but some common mistakes can hinder the final dish. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Sauté Step – Not sautéing the vegetables and meat can lead to a bland flavor. Always start by cooking onions and peppers until softened, then add your ground beef.
• Overcooking the Pasta – Cooking the macaroni too long will make it mushy. Monitor closely and aim for al dente, as it will continue to cook in the pot.
• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments – Failing to taste and adjust seasonings can result in a dull dish. Always sample before serving; you can add more spices or salt as needed.
• Using Low-Quality Cheese – Low-quality cheese won’t melt well and can ruin the creamy texture. Opt for good-quality sharp cheddar for the best results.
• Not Allowing Time to Thicken – Rushing the simmering time may prevent the sauce from thickening properly. Let it simmer uncovered until the desired consistency is reached.
• Ignoring Toppings – Skipping toppings can make your dish less exciting. Consider adding sliced green onions or sour cream for added flavor and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3 days for best quality.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze in a heavy-duty freezer bag or airtight container.
• Keep frozen for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop – Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking. Add a splash of chicken broth if needed for moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is One Pot Chili Mac?

One Pot Chili Mac is a comforting dish that combines pasta, chili, and cheese all cooked together in one pot. It’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners!

Can I customize One Pot Chili Mac?

Yes! You can customize this recipe by adding different vegetables, using turkey instead of beef, or adjusting spice levels based on your preference.

How long does One Pot Chili Mac last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, One Pot Chili Mac lasts about 3 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months in the freezer.

Is there a vegetarian version of One Pot Chili Mac?

Absolutely! You can make a vegetarian version by replacing ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat substitutes and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What toppings work well with One Pot Chili Mac?

Some great toppings include sliced green onions, diced tomatoes, sour cream, or additional cheese. Feel free to get creative!

Final Thoughts

One Pot Chili Mac is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. This hearty meal is perfect for cozy family dinners or when you’re entertaining guests. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting spice levels to suit your taste. Give it a try today!