One Pot Chili Mac

This hearty One Pot Chili Mac combines the rich flavors of classic beef chili with macaroni pasta and melted cheese, making it an ideal dish for family dinners or gatherings. Its one-pot preparation means less cleanup, which is perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it yields about 10 cups, allowing for delicious leftovers that can be enjoyed throughout the week!

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• 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 Main Ingredients
• Step 6: Simmer
• Step 7: Finish with Creaminess
• Step 8: Serve
• How to Serve One Pot Chili Mac
• Toppings
• Pairings
• Serving Bowls
• 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 can I customize my One Pot Chili Mac?
• What toppings pair well with One Pot Chili Mac?
• How do I store leftover One Pot Chili Mac?
• Can I use other types of pasta?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe comes together in just 45 minutes, making it a fantastic option for a weeknight meal.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pot means fewer dishes to wash afterward.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of spices and ingredients creates a deliciously satisfying meal that everyone will love.
• Versatile Options: Adjust the spice level with mild or hot green chilies based on your preference.
• Great for Leftovers: With enough servings for a crowd, you’ll have tasty leftovers to enjoy later.

Tools and Preparation

To make your One Pot Chili Mac, you’ll need some essential tools to help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A spacious pot allows all ingredients to cook evenly without overcrowding.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring and mixing, ensuring nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot.
• Chopping board and knife: Essential for prepping your vegetables quickly and safely.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 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
– 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)
– 8 oz dry elbow macaroni (2 cups)
– 1 (15 oz) can dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 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

Optional Toppings:
– Sliced green onions
– Sour cream
– Diced tomatoes
– Cayenne pepper

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 chopped onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for about five minutes until softened. Push this mixture to one side of the pot.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

Add the ground beef in chunks into the cleared space. Let it sear for about three minutes. Break up the beef and mix it with the onion and peppers. Cook until nearly cooked through, around two minutes.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Spices

Stir in the minced garlic; cook for about thirty seconds. Then add chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Stir for one minute to toast the spices.

Step 5: Combine Main Ingredients

Pour in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and diced green chilies. Stir in elbow macaroni and kidney beans. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 6: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a simmer; then reduce heat to low. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally until pasta is tender—about twelve to fifteen minutes.

Step 7: Finish with Creaminess

Remove from heat; stir in half-and-half and shredded cheese until melted and creamy. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add more chicken broth.

Step 8: Serve

Serve hot with optional toppings like sliced green onions, sour cream, diced tomatoes, or extra cheese as desired.

Enjoy your delicious One Pot Chili Mac!

How to Serve One Pot Chili Mac

One Pot Chili Mac is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want a cozy dinner for two, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal experience.

Toppings

• Sliced Green Onions: Adds a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
• Sour Cream: Provides creaminess and balances the spice.
• Diced Tomatoes: Brightens the dish with freshness and acidity.
• Cayenne Pepper: For those who love an extra kick of heat.

Pairings

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up the delicious sauce.
• Cornbread: A classic pairing that complements the chili flavors.
• Side Salad: A light and refreshing option to balance the richness.

Serving Bowls

• Individual Bowls: Serve in small bowls for portion control and a personal touch.
• Family-Style Serving: Present in a large pot to encourage sharing and communal dining.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect One Pot Chili Mac

To ensure your One Pot Chili Mac turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Lean Meat: Choose lean ground beef (93% or higher) for a healthier dish without sacrificing flavor.
• Toast Spices First: Sautéing spices enhances their flavor, making your chili mac even more aromatic.
• Adjust Liquid as Needed: If you prefer a soupier texture, add more chicken broth gradually.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook until just tender to avoid mushy macaroni that loses its shape.

Best Side Dishes for One Pot Chili Mac

Adding complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Cornbread: Sweet and buttery, it pairs well with the spice of the chili mac.
2. Coleslaw: The crunchiness adds texture and freshness to your plate.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Smoky and caramelized veggies bring added flavor contrast.
4. Garlic Toast: Perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce from your bowl.
5. Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing offers a nice contrast to the hearty main dish.
6. Rice Pilaf: Lightly seasoned rice provides a simple, filling side that complements well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making One Pot Chili Mac is simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin this delicious dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the wrong pasta: Choosing a pasta type that takes longer to cook can lead to overcooked or mushy results. Stick with elbow macaroni for the best texture.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting the seasonings can result in bland flavors. Always taste before serving, and adjust salt, pepper, or spices as needed.
• Overcrowding the pot: Adding too many ingredients at once can lead to uneven cooking. Follow the steps carefully to ensure each ingredient gets cooked properly.
• Neglecting to stir: Failing to stir occasionally may cause sticking or burning on the bottom of the pot. Make sure to mix it up during cooking to prevent this.
• Rushing the simmer: Cooking at too high a heat can make the pasta tough. Allow it to simmer gently for perfect tenderness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let it cool completely before sealing the container.

Freezing One Pot Chili Mac

• Freeze in portion-sized containers for easy meals later on.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating One Pot Chili Mac

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chili mac in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a single serving in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed. Stir frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making One Pot Chili Mac:

Can I make One Pot Chili Mac vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute ground beef with lentils or your favorite meat substitute, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How can I customize my One Pot Chili Mac?

You can add black beans or corn, use different cheeses, or spice it up with jalapeños or cayenne pepper.

What toppings pair well with One Pot Chili Mac?

Consider topping it with sliced green onions, sour cream, shredded cheese, or diced tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.

How do I store leftover One Pot Chili Mac?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze portions for up to 3 months.

Can I use other types of pasta?

While elbow macaroni is recommended, you can experiment with other small pasta shapes like shells or rotini; just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Final Thoughts

One Pot Chili Mac is not only hearty and comforting but also incredibly versatile. With endless customization options available, it’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Try this recipe today and make it your own!