There’s something incredibly comforting about One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese. This dish brings warmth and joy to the table in a way that’s hard to beat. When I first made this recipe, it quickly became a family favorite—a satisfying blend of cheesy, savory flavors packed in one pot with minimal cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, you won’t spend hours cooking or cleaning up afterward, making it ideal for any occasion.
What sets this dish apart is its smoky chili flavor paired with the creaminess of cheddar cheese. The elbow macaroni absorbs all those delicious juices while creating a hearty, satisfying meal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this dish offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Why you’ll love One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese
- Quick preparation with minimal cleanup.
- Hearty and filling for all ages.
- Packed with protein from the meat and beans.
- Versatile with endless topping options.
- Cheesy goodness in every bite.
What ingredients do I need for One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese?
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 can (15 ounces) chili beans
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: sour cream, green onions, jalapeños
Ingredient notes & swaps
- Ground turkey is a leaner alternative to beef.
- Try black beans instead of chili beans for a different texture.
- Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
How do I make One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese step-by-step?
Making this dish is a breeze! Start by browning the meat, then add everything else and let it simmer until perfect.
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add chili beans, diced tomatoes, macaroni, broth, and chili powder. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the pasta is cooked, about 10-12 minutes.
- Stir in cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot with optional toppings.
Pro Tip: For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne when you’re cooking your meat!
How should I serve it?
This dish shines on its own, but you can enhance it with toppings like sour cream, sliced green onions, or chopped jalapeños for an extra kick. Pair it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce.
Can I make it ahead? How do I store and reheat it?
You can prepare One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese ahead of time. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
How do I fix common issues?
If your chili mac turns out too dry, add a little extra broth or water while reheating. For blandness, boost the flavors with more chili powder or salt. If it’s overcooked, the pasta can become mushy—next time, watch the cooking time closely!
What variations can I try?
Experiment with different flavors by adding diced bell peppers or corn for sweetness. You might also try using a different type of cheese, like pepper jack for added spice, or even mixing in some cooked vegetables to enhance its nutritional value.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the ground meat for a mix of beans and add more vegetables.
What can I serve alongside it?
A fresh green salad or some cornbread would complement the dish nicely.
Can I freeze One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese?
Yes, it freezes well. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container for up to two months.
One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add chili beans, diced tomatoes, macaroni, broth, and chili powder. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the pasta is cooked, about 10-12 minutes.
- Stir in cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot with optional toppings.