Name: One Pot Chili Mac: 5 Reasons You'll Love This Comfort Dish
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey); 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; 15 oz can diced tomatoes; 8 oz can tomato sauce; 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth); 15 oz can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked); 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; Fresh chopped cilantro or parsley (optional)

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One Pot Chili Mac is the ultimate comfort food that combines the hearty flavors of chili with the creamy goodness of mac and cheese. This dish not only satisfies your hunger but also warms your soul, making it ideal for family dinners or a cozy night in. With its rich blend of spices and melted cheese, it’s a recipe that promises to please everyone at the table. Perfect for busy nights, this quick one pot chili mac meal is ready in just 35 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This One Pot Chili Mac

There are countless reasons to love this easy one pot chili mac recipe. First, it’s a complete meal packed with protein, making it a nutritious choice for your family. Second, cleanup is a breeze since everything cooks in one pot, saving you time. Third, it’s customizable—whether you prefer a vegetarian one pot chili mac or one packed with ground beef, this recipe caters to all. Fourth, it’s perfect for meal prep, allowing you to whip up a batch for the week. Lastly, it’s a family-friendly dish that kids will love, making it the ideal choice for busy weeknights.

Ingredients for One Pot Chili Mac

Gather these items:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
15 oz can diced tomatoes
8 oz can tomato sauce

2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
15 oz can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh chopped cilantro or parsley (optional)

How to Make One Pot Chili Mac Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or deep skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft.

Step 2: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Add ground beef, season with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne. Cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes.
Step 4: Pour in diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir well, scraping the pot to deglaze.
Step 5: Mix in kidney beans and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 6: Stir in elbow macaroni. Reduce heat slightly and cover loosely. Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 7: Once pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed, turn off heat and stir in 1 cup cheddar and all mozzarella.

Step 8: Sprinkle remaining cheddar on top, cover for 2–3 minutes to melt.
Step 9: Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro and serve hot.

Pro Tips for the Perfect One Pot Chili Mac

Keep these in mind:

Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting effect.
For a vegetarian one pot chili mac, substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms.
Monitor the cooking time closely to avoid overcooking the macaroni.

This dish can be easily doubled for a larger crowd, just ensure your pot is big enough!

Best Ways to Serve One Pot Chili Mac

Here are some serving ideas:

Top with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.
Serve alongside a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast.
This one pot chili mac with cheese is fantastic with a side of cornbread.

How to Store and Reheat One Pot Chili Mac

To store, let the chili mac cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry. This makes it perfect for one pot chili mac for meal prep.

Frequently Asked Questions About One Pot Chili Mac

What is one pot chili mac?

One pot chili mac is a delicious fusion of chili and macaroni and cheese, made in one pot for easy cleanup. This comfort food dish is perfect for busy nights and caters to various dietary preferences.

Can I make one pot chili mac ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare one pot chili mac ahead of time. Simply cook it, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving for a quick and satisfying meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with one pot chili mac?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure not to overcook the pasta and adjust the liquid amount based on your desired consistency. Stir frequently during cooking to prevent sticking.

Variations of One Pot Chili Mac You Can Try

Here are some delicious variations:

Add chopped bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrients in your one pot chili mac with vegetables.

Try using different types of cheese like pepper jack for a spicy kick.
Make it a healthy one pot chili mac by using whole grain pasta.
For a creamier version, stir in a splash of heavy cream before serving.

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