There’s something incredibly comforting about a big bowl of one pot chili mac and cheese. It’s the ultimate cozy dish that combines the hearty flavors of chili with the creamy goodness of mac and cheese, all made in just one pot! Perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without the extensive cleanup, this dish is a lifesaver. I love how the spices meld together, creating a warm embrace in every bite. Plus, it’s so simple to whip up—just brown some beef, toss in your ingredients, and let it simmer! Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a go-to favorite in your household.
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious one pot chili mac and cheese. I promise it’s a straightforward list, and you might already have some of these ingredients in your pantry!
- 1 pound ground beef (chopped)
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to gather everything before you start cooking—this way, you’ll have a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience! Trust me, it makes all the difference when you have your ingredients at the ready.
How to Prepare One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese
Now, let’s dive into the fun part—making your one pot chili mac and cheese! It’s a breeze, and I’m here to guide you through each step. Grab your large pot and let’s get cooking!
- Start by heating your pot over medium heat. Toss in the ground beef and cook until it’s nicely browned, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break it up with a spatula so it cooks evenly. You want it to be all browned, not pink!
- Once the beef is browned, add in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant. Oh, the smell is heavenly!
- Stir in the kidney beans and diced tomatoes. Then, add the elbow macaroni, beef broth, chili powder, and cumin. Give everything a good stir. Bring this mixture to a boil—watch it bubble!
- Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes. This is when the macaroni cooks and absorbs all those wonderful flavors. Stir occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom.
- When the macaroni is tender, it’s time to add the star of the show—cheddar cheese! Stir it in until it melts and becomes creamy. Trust me, this is the moment you’ve been waiting for!
- Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a taste test—adjust if needed, and then serve hot. You did it!
Don’t worry if it looks a bit saucy at first; it’ll thicken up as it cools slightly. Enjoy the deliciousness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare: In just about 30 minutes, you’ve got a hearty meal ready to go!
- Hearty and satisfying: The combination of chili and mac and cheese creates a filling dish that warms you from the inside out.
- Minimal cleanup: Since it’s all made in one pot, you’ll spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.
- Versatile: You can easily customize it! Swap in your favorite proteins, try different beans, or add extra veggies for a twist.
- Kid-friendly: The creamy cheese and familiar pasta make it a hit with kids and adults alike!
- Great for leftovers: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch!
Tips for Success
Now that you’re all set to make your one pot chili mac and cheese, here are some tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time!
- Adjusting spice levels: If you like it spicy, feel free to add more chili powder or even some cayenne pepper! On the flip side, if you’re cooking for little ones or prefer a milder flavor, start with less spice and add more as you taste.
- Cooking the macaroni: Keep an eye on the macaroni as it simmers. You want it al dente, so it has a little bite to it. If it cooks too long, it’ll get mushy—yikes! Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cheese choices: While cheddar is a classic choice, don’t hesitate to get creative! A blend of Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack can add a nice twist. Just make sure it’s good melting cheese!
- Optional toppings: Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of green onions on top for a fresh finish. A little dollop of guacamole or salsa can also elevate the flavors beautifully!
- Leftover magic: If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the fridge for a few days. Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or milk to help restore the creamy texture.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be a pro at making this cozy dish! Enjoy every cheesy, spicy bite!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to one pot chili mac and cheese, you might be curious about what’s packed into each delicious serving. Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one cup of this comforting dish. Keep in mind, these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use!
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 25g
This hearty meal is not only filling but also provides a good amount of protein and fiber to keep you satisfied. Enjoy it knowing you’re indulging in a dish that’s tasty and gives you a hearty boost!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making your one pot chili mac and cheese? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I often hear, along with my answers to help you navigate the cooking process smoothly.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just swap out the ground beef for lentils or mushrooms for a hearty alternative. You can also use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep it flavorful.
How do I store leftovers?
If you have any delicious leftovers (which is always a good thing!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.
What toppings can I use?
The sky’s the limit! I love adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of green onions for freshness. You could also try crushed tortilla chips for a nice crunch, or even some avocado slices for creaminess!
Can I use other types of pasta?
Sure thing! While elbow macaroni is classic, you can experiment with other shapes like shells or penne. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different pasta may require slight adjustments.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes! You can freeze one pot chili mac and cheese, but I recommend doing so without the cheese added. Cook the dish, let it cool, then freeze in portions. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw and stir in freshly grated cheese before reheating!
How spicy is this dish?
The spice level can easily be adjusted! If you prefer it mild, start with less chili powder and taste as you go. If you love heat, add more chili powder or even some diced jalapeños for an extra kick!
Hopefully, these FAQs help you out! If you have more questions, feel free to reach out. Enjoy cooking your one pot chili mac and cheese!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up this delicious one pot chili mac and cheese, you might be wondering what to serve alongside it to really round out the meal. Here are some of my favorite options that pair perfectly!
- Garlic bread: You can’t go wrong with a warm, buttery slice of garlic bread. It’s perfect for soaking up any extra sauce and adds a delightful crunch!
- Fresh salad: A crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette is a great way to balance the richness of the chili mac. Try adding some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a sprinkle of feta cheese for a fresh touch.
- Steamed vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans make a colorful and healthy side. They add a pop of color and a nice crunch to your meal.
- Cornbread: If you want to take it up a notch, serve your chili mac with some warm cornbread. It’s a classic pairing that brings a bit of sweetness to the table!
- Pickled jalapeños: For those who love a bit of heat, serve some pickled jalapeños on the side. They add a tangy kick and are a fun way to customize each bowl.
These sides not only complement the hearty flavors of your one pot chili mac and cheese but also create a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy your cozy dinner!
Print
One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese: 5 Steps to Cozy Comfort
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A comforting and hearty dish combining chili and mac and cheese in one pot.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened.
- Stir in the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, elbow macaroni, beef broth, chili powder, and cumin.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes until macaroni is cooked.
- Stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, replace ground beef with lentils or mushrooms.
- Adjust spices to your flavor preference.
- This dish can be topped with sour cream or green onions if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: one pot chili mac and cheese
