There’s just something so comforting about a big pot of goodness simmering on the stove, isn’t there? When it comes to family dinners, convenience and flavor are key, and that’s where my one pot chili mac and cheese shines! This dish brings together hearty ground beef, zesty chili flavors, and creamy cheddar cheese, all in one glorious pot. I mean, who doesn’t love a meal that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor? Plus, it saves on the dishes, which is always a win in my book! Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again when you need a cozy, satisfying meal that everyone will love. Ready to dive in?
Ingredients for One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese
Gathering your ingredients is super simple! Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious one pot chili mac and cheese:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to play around with the ingredients! You can swap out the ground beef for turkey or even a plant-based protein if you’re looking for a lighter version. Just keep an eye on those flavors and seasonings to make sure it’s just as tasty!
How to Prepare One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese
Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making this one pot chili mac and cheese! It’s a straightforward process that’s all about layering those flavors. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying a delicious meal in no time!
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
First things first, we need to brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. This step is super important because it not only cooks the meat but also develops a rich, savory flavor that’s going to elevate your dish. Keep an eye on it and break it up as it cooks until it’s no longer pink—this should take about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Once the beef is browned, it’s time to add in all those wonderful ingredients! Stir in the drained kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, elbow macaroni, and beef broth. Then sprinkle in the chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper. Mixing everything together ensures that all those flavors blend beautifully as they cook!
Step 3: Boil and Simmer
Bring the mixture to a boil, and then reduce the heat to let it simmer. This is where the magic happens! Let it simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the macaroni from sticking to the bottom. You want the pasta to be tender and absorb all those savory flavors—trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Step 4: Add Cheddar Cheese
Once your chili mac has simmered to perfection, it’s time for the star of the show—the cheddar cheese! Stir in the shredded cheese until it’s completely melted and creamy. This is where your dish transforms into a gooey, cheesy delight. Make sure to taste it and adjust any seasonings, and then you’re ready to serve up some warm bowls of comfort!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Just a little heads up! The nutritional information provided for this one pot chili mac and cheese is an estimate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose. So, while I strive to give you accurate info, it’s always a good idea to check your labels for the most precise counts. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and don’t stress too much about the numbers—just focus on the deliciousness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This one pot chili mac and cheese is more than just a meal; it’s a game changer! Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore this recipe:
- Quick to prepare—ready in just 30 minutes!
- Super easy with minimal cleanup—one pot is all you need!
- Flavor-packed with savory beef and zesty chili spices.
- Comfort food that warms the soul and satisfies the belly.
- Gluten-free option available—just swap the pasta as needed!
Trust me, once you make this, it’ll quickly become a weeknight favorite!
Tips for Success with One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese
To ensure your one pot chili mac and cheese turns out perfectly, here are a few handy tips! First, don’t rush the browning of the beef; it adds so much flavor! Also, make sure to stir occasionally during the simmering process to prevent sticking. If you want to spice things up, feel free to add in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick. And remember, tasting as you go is key—adjust the seasonings to match your personal preference. You’ve got this!
Variations of One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese
If you’re feeling adventurous or want to switch things up, there are so many fun variations you can try with this one pot chili mac and cheese! For a heartier dish, toss in some diced bell peppers or corn for a pop of color and flavor. You can also swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based protein like lentils or crumbled tempeh for a vegetarian option. Want to add a bit of heat? Chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper will do the trick! The possibilities are endless, so get creative and make it your own!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your one pot chili mac and cheese, there are so many delicious options to consider! I love pairing it with a simple green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the dish. You could also serve it with some warm, crusty bread or garlic breadsticks for dipping—who doesn’t love that combo? And if you’re feeling adventurous, top it off with some sliced avocado or a dollop of sour cream for an extra touch of creaminess. Trust me, these sides will take your meal to the next level!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Leftovers of this one pot chili mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just let it cool down first before sealing it up! When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up if needed. Stir occasionally until it’s warmed through. You can also pop it in the microwave for a quick reheat—just be sure to cover it to prevent splatters. Enjoy your cozy leftovers!
Share Your Thoughts
I’d love to hear what you think about this one pot chili mac and cheese! Did you put your own spin on it? What did your family think? Please leave a comment below or rate the recipe—your feedback means the world to me and helps others find this delicious dish!
For more delicious recipes, check out this creamy mac and cheese recipe or this one pot creamy garlic pasta for more comforting meals!
Print
One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese: 5 Comforting Steps to Delight
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and delicious one pot chili mac and cheese recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Add kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, elbow macaroni, beef broth, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Stir in the cheddar cheese until melted.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- Use any type of ground meat if desired.
- Adjust spices to your taste.
- Can add vegetables like bell peppers or corn.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: one pot chili mac and cheese, easy chili mac, comfort food
