One Pot Chili Mac

This One Pot Chili Mac is a delightful fusion of classic beef chili and macaroni, topped with gooey cheese. It’s not only comfort food at its best but also incredibly convenient, as it all cooks in just one pot. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish promises hearty flavor and easy cleanup, making it a family favorite you’ll want to revisit.

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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
• For Creaminess
• For Garnish
• How to Make One Pot Chili Mac
• Step 1: Heat the Oil
• Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
• Step 3: Cook the Beef
• Step 4: Add Garlic and Spices
• Step 5: Combine Ingredients
• Step 6: Simmer
• Step 7: Creamy Finish
• Step 8: Serve
• How to Serve One Pot Chili Mac
• Toppings
• Accompaniments
• 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
• Can I make One Pot Chili Mac vegetarian?
• How do I spice up my One Pot Chili Mac?
• Can I use different types of pasta?
• How long does One Pot Chili Mac last in the fridge?
• What toppings go well with One Pot Chili Mac?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation – With everything cooked in one pot, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle.
• Flavorful Comfort – The combination of spices, beef, and cheese creates a rich flavor that warms you from the inside out.
• Versatile Dish – Customize your chili mac with different toppings or adjust the spice level to suit your taste buds.
• Great for Leftovers – This recipe yields about 10 cups, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying leftovers throughout the week.
• Crowd-Pleasing Meal – Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone.

Tools and Preparation

To make the One Pot Chili Mac, you’ll need some essential tools that will make the cooking process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chopping board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot – A spacious pot allows for even cooking and prevents spills while simmering.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – These tools are great for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements ensure your flavors are balanced just right.

Ingredients

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

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

For Creaminess

• 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

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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 the 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 nearly cooked through, about 2 minutes.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Spices

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

Step 5: Combine 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 to a simmer then reduce heat to low. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally until pasta is tender, about 12–15 minutes.

Step 7: Creamy Finish

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

How to Serve One Pot Chili Mac

One Pot Chili Mac is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate your meal, these serving suggestions will help you create a delightful dining experience.

Toppings

• Sliced Green Onions – Add a fresh crunch and a pop of color.
• Sour Cream – A creamy addition that balances the spices perfectly.
• Diced Tomatoes – Fresh tomatoes add juiciness and brightness to each bite.
• Cayenne Pepper – Sprinkle on for an extra kick if desired.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread – The sweetness of cornbread complements the savory flavors of the chili mac.
• Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
• Simple Green Salad – A light salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.

Serving Style

• In Bowls – Serve in individual bowls for a cozy meal experience.
• Family Style – Place the pot on the table and let everyone serve themselves for a casual gathering.

How to Perfect One Pot Chili Mac

Perfecting your One Pot Chili Mac can take this dish from great to remarkable. Here are some tips to enhance your cooking process.

• Use High-Quality Meat – Opt for lean ground beef for a healthier version while still getting great flavor.
• Toast Your Spices – Ensure you toast the spices before adding liquids; it enhances their flavor significantly.
• Adjust Consistency Wisely – If you prefer a creamier texture, add more half and half or cheese as desired.
• Let It Rest – Allowing the chili mac to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld beautifully.

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Best Side Dishes for One Pot Chili Mac

Pairing sides with your One Pot Chili Mac can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Coleslaw – A crunchy, tangy slaw balances out the warmth of the chili mac, providing a refreshing contrast.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasoned and roasted veggies add color and nutrition alongside your hearty dish.
3. Mexican Street Corn – Sweet corn with lime and cheese makes for an irresistible side that complements chili flavors well.
4. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges can be dipped into any leftover chili sauce, making them a fun addition.
5. Rice Pilaf – Lightly seasoned rice pilaf adds another layer of flavor without overpowering your main dish.
6. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits – Fluffy biscuits with melted cheese are perfect for scooping up every last bite of chili mac.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making One Pot Chili Mac can be simple, but there are common mistakes that could ruin your dish. Avoiding these will ensure a delicious meal every time.

• Skipping the Sautéing Step – Neglecting to sauté the onions and peppers can result in a lack of flavor. Always take the time to soften them before adding other ingredients.
• Overcooking the Pasta – Cooking the macaroni for too long can make it mushy. Keep an eye on it and test for tenderness around 12 minutes.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments – Not tasting as you cook can lead to bland chili mac. Season with salt and pepper along the way, adjusting to your liking.
• Using Low-Quality Cheese – Cheap cheese might not melt well, leading to a gritty texture. Opt for high-quality sharp cheddar for a creamy finish.
• Not Allowing Leftovers to Cool – Placing hot chili mac straight into the fridge can create moisture and spoilage. Let it cool down before storing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the chili mac has cooled completely before sealing.

Freezing One Pot Chili Mac

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
• Divide into servings for easier thawing.

Reheating One Pot Chili Mac

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring in between.
• Stovetop – Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring frequently. Add a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen it up.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making One Pot Chili Mac, along with their answers.

Can I make One Pot Chili Mac vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute ground beef with black beans or additional vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini.

How do I spice up my One Pot Chili Mac?

You can add cayenne pepper or jalapeños for extra heat. Adjust according to your spice tolerance.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as shells or penne.

How long does One Pot Chili Mac last in the fridge?

It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when kept in an airtight container.

What toppings go well with One Pot Chili Mac?

You can top it with sliced green onions, sour cream, diced tomatoes, or additional cheese for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

This One Pot Chili Mac is not just hearty and comforting; it’s also versatile enough to customize based on your preferences. Whether you want it spicier or loaded with veggies, this recipe invites creativity. Try it out today and enjoy this delightful dish!

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