One Pot Chili Mac

This One Pot Chili Mac is the ultimate comfort food that combines the robust flavors of classic beef chili with macaroni pasta and melted cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, this dish is not only simple to prepare but also offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes. With about 10 cups of deliciousness, you’ll have plenty of leftovers to enjoy throughout the week!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Base
• For the Sauce
• For the Pasta
• Final Touches
• For Garnish
• How to Make One Pot Chili Mac
• Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
• Step 2: Cook Ground Beef
• Step 3: Add Garlic and Spices
• Step 4: Combine Ingredients
• Step 5: Simmer
• Step 6: Finish with Creaminess
• Step 7: Serve
• How to Serve One Pot Chili Mac
• Toppings
• Pairing with Bread
• Serving Style
• 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
• How can I customize my One Pot Chili Mac?
• Can I make One Pot Chili Mac vegetarian?
• What toppings go well with One Pot Chili Mac?
• How do I store leftovers of One Pot Chili Mac?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This one-pot meal comes together in just 45 minutes, making it a perfect option for busy nights.
• Flavorful Comfort: The rich combination of spices, beef, and cheese delivers a hearty flavor that satisfies every palate.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your Chili Mac by using different proteins or adjusting spice levels based on your preference.
• Great for Leftovers: This recipe makes approximately 10 cups, ensuring you have delicious meals ready for the next few days.
• Kid-Friendly: The cheesy pasta is a hit with children, making family dinners enjoyable for everyone.

Tools and Preparation

To make your One Pot Chili Mac smoothly, having the right tools will make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Chopping board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking all ingredients together without needing multiple dishes.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface while keeping everything well mixed.

Ingredients

This hearty and comforting one-pot Chili Mac combines the flavors of classic beef chili, macaroni pasta, and rich melted cheese. It’s easy to make, filling, and perfect for weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd. Plus, it makes about 10 cups, so you can enjoy leftovers for days!

For the Base

• 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

For the Sauce

• 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)

For the Pasta

• 8 oz dry elbow macaroni (2 cups)
• 1 (15 oz) can dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed

Final Touches

• 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 Garnish

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

PIN THIS!

How to Make One Pot Chili Mac

Step 1: 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 and 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 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 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

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

Step 6: Finish with Creaminess

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

Step 7: Serve

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

Enjoy your delicious One Pot Chili Mac!

How to Serve One Pot Chili Mac

Serving One Pot Chili Mac is all about enhancing its hearty flavors while adding a bit of personal touch. Whether you’re enjoying it for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Toppings

• Sliced Green Onions: Sprinkle fresh green onions on top for a crisp texture and vibrant color.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spice perfectly.
• Diced Tomatoes: Fresh diced tomatoes offer a refreshing contrast to the rich chili mac.
• Cayenne Pepper: For those who like it spicy, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper can kick up the heat.
• Extra Cheese: Melted cheese on top provides an indulgent finish that cheese lovers will appreciate.

Pairing with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread alongside for a delicious way to soak up the chili mac sauce.
• Cornbread: The sweetness of cornbread complements the savory flavors in the dish beautifully.

Serving Style

• In Bowls: Serve in deep bowls for a comforting feel, perfect for casual dining.
• Family Style: Place the pot on the table and let everyone serve themselves for a fun, communal experience.

How to Perfect One Pot Chili Mac

Creating the best One Pot Chili Mac involves some simple tips that can take your dish from good to great.

• Bold Spices: Use fresh spices to enhance the flavor profile; they can make all the difference.
• Quality Beef: Choose 93% lean ground beef for optimal flavor without excessive grease.
• Al Dente Pasta: Cook the macaroni until just al dente; it will continue cooking in the pot and absorb flavors without becoming mushy.
• Creamy Consistency: Adjust the amount of half and half or heavy cream based on your preferred creaminess level.
• Taste as You Go: Regularly taste and adjust seasonings throughout cooking to ensure balanced flavors.

PIN THIS!

Best Side Dishes for One Pot Chili Mac

One Pot Chili Mac is filling enough on its own, but pairing it with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal. Consider these tasty options:

1. Simple Salad: A light garden salad with vinaigrette provides freshness that contrasts nicely with the richness of chili mac.
2. Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans add color and nutrients without overpowering flavors.
3. Coleslaw: The crunchiness and tang of coleslaw balance out the heartiness of chili mac beautifully.
4. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are perfect for dipping into any extra sauce from your chili mac.
5. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad offers a sweet contrast that cleanses the palate after each hearty bite.
6. Pickles or Jalapeños: For those who enjoy extra zing, pickles or jalapeños add a delightful crunch and spice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making One Pot Chili Mac, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are common mistakes and how to steer clear of them.

• Skipping the Searing Step: Not searing the ground beef can lead to less flavor. Always sear it before mixing with other ingredients for depth.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the macaroni too long causes mushiness. Check for al dente texture around the 12-minute mark.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoned chili mac can taste bland. Taste and adjust salt and pepper levels throughout the cooking process.
• Using Low-Quality Cheese: Cheap cheese may not melt well, affecting creaminess. Opt for good-quality sharp cheddar for best results.
• Not Adding Enough Liquid: If you skip adding chicken broth or half and half, your dish could be too dry. Always ensure there’s enough liquid for a creamy consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Allow to cool before sealing to prevent moisture build-up.

Freezing One Pot Chili Mac

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating One Pot Chili Mac

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a saucepan, stirring occasionally. Add extra chicken broth if needed for creaminess.

PIN THIS!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I customize my One Pot Chili Mac?

You can add extra vegetables like corn or zucchini for more nutrition. Adjust spice levels by selecting different chili types or adding hot sauce.

Can I make One Pot Chili Mac vegetarian?

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

What toppings go well with One Pot Chili Mac?

Popular toppings include sliced green onions, sour cream, diced tomatoes, or extra cheese. Get creative with your favorites!

How do I store leftovers of One Pot Chili Mac?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

One Pot Chili Mac is a satisfying meal that combines comfort food with ease of preparation. It’s ideal for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends and family. Feel free to customize it based on your taste preferences; whether you add beans, veggies, or spice it up, this recipe is versatile and delicious!