One Pot Chili Mac

This One Pot Chili Mac is a delightful blend of flavors that brings together the heartiness of chili, the comfort of macaroni, and the creaminess of melted cheese—all in one pot! Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish is not only filling but also provides delicious leftovers. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

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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 Liquid Components
• For the Pasta and Beans
• For Creaminess
• For Garnish
• How to Make One Pot Chili Mac
• Step 1: Heat the Oil
• Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
• Step 3: Cook the Beef
• Step 4: Add Garlic and Spices
• Step 5: Incorporate Liquids
• Step 6: Simmer
• Step 7: Finish with Creaminess
• Step 8: Serve
• How to Serve One Pot Chili Mac
• Toppings
• Accompaniments
• 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
• What is One Pot Chili Mac?
• Can I customize my One Pot Chili Mac?
• How long does it take to make One Pot Chili Mac?
• What toppings go well with One Pot Chili Mac?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With everything cooked in one pot, cleanup is a breeze!
• Flavorful: The combination of spices and cheese creates a rich and satisfying meal.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice levels or add your favorite toppings to make it your own.
• Feeding a Crowd: This recipe yields about 10 cups, perfect for sharing with family or friends.
• Great Leftovers: Enjoy this dish for days; it reheats beautifully!

Tools and Preparation

To make this One Pot Chili Mac, you’ll need a few essential tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A must-have for cooking everything in one go, preventing multiple dishes.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without damaging your pot’s surface.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for the best flavor.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this hearty 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 Liquid Components

• 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 and Beans

• 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

Optional toppings:
* 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 the 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 ground beef in chunks to the cleared space. Let it sear for about 3 minutes. Break up the beef and mix with onion and peppers. Cook until nearly done, 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 1 minute to toast spices.

Step 5: Incorporate Liquids

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

Step 7: Finish with Creaminess

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

How to Serve One Pot Chili Mac

Serving one pot Chili Mac is simple and versatile. This dish can be customized with various toppings and side dishes, making it a perfect fit for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a cozy meal at home, here are some great serving suggestions.

Toppings

• Sliced Green Onions – Adds a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
• Sour Cream – Provides a creamy tanginess that balances the spices.
• Diced Tomatoes – Offers a refreshing burst of flavor and juiciness.
• Cayenne Pepper – For those who like an extra kick of heat.
• Extra Cheese – Sprinkle more shredded cheddar on top for indulgence.

Accompaniments

• Crusty Bread – A slice of warm bread is perfect for scooping up the Chili Mac.
• Garden Salad – A light salad adds freshness and complements the hearty dish.
• Cornbread – Sweet cornbread pairs well with the spicy flavors of the Chili Mac.

How to Perfect One Pot Chili Mac

To achieve the best results with your one pot Chili Mac, consider these helpful tips that enhance both flavor and texture.

• Bold Spices – Use fresh spices to enhance the chili flavor; they make all the difference.
• Quality Meat – Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing taste.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta – Keep an eye on the macaroni; it should be tender but not mushy.
• Creamy Finish – Stir in half-and-half or cream at the end for a rich texture.
• Adjust Thickness – Add more chicken broth if you prefer a thinner consistency in your dish.

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Best Side Dishes for One Pot Chili Mac

Pairing side dishes with your one pot Chili Mac can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delicious options that complement this hearty dish nicely.

1. Garlic Bread – Crispy on the outside, soft inside, perfect for soaking up chili flavors.
2. Coleslaw – A crunchy, tangy salad that adds a refreshing contrast to the warmth of Chili Mac.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasoned and roasted veggies provide health benefits and added taste.
4. Cucumber Salad – Light and crisp, this salad balances out the richness of the main dish.
5. Baked Beans – Sweet and savory beans pair well with chili, enhancing the overall experience.
6. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn adds a pop of flavor and texture alongside your hearty meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One Pot Chili Mac is a simple dish, but there are common mistakes that can affect your results. Avoid these pitfalls for the best experience.

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the macaroni too long can lead to a mushy texture. Keep an eye on it and taste for doneness around the 12-minute mark.
• Not Seasoning Enough: Failing to season properly can result in bland flavors. Always taste and adjust the salt and spices to your liking before serving.
• Ignoring the Cheese: Adding cheese too early can make it stringy. Stir in the cheese off the heat for a creamy texture.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap or low-quality canned tomatoes and broth can impact flavor. Choose higher-quality brands for better results.
• Skipping Leftover Storage Tips: Not storing leftovers correctly can lead to spoilage. Use airtight containers and refrigerate promptly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing One Pot Chili Mac

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating One Pot Chili Mac

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chili mac in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute increments, stirring in between until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a pot, stirring frequently. Add a splash of chicken broth if it’s too thick.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is One Pot Chili Mac?

One Pot Chili Mac is a comforting dish that blends macaroni pasta with beef chili and cheese, all cooked together in one pot for easy preparation.

Can I customize my One Pot Chili Mac?

Yes! You can add vegetables like corn or zucchini, use different meats, or adjust spices for your preferred heat level.

How long does it take to make One Pot Chili Mac?

The total time is about 45 minutes, including prep and cooking time, making it great for weeknight dinners.

What toppings go well with One Pot Chili Mac?

Toppings like sliced green onions, sour cream, diced tomatoes, or extra cheese enhance flavor and presentation.

Final Thoughts

One Pot Chili Mac is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or adjust spice levels. Give this recipe a try for your next meal; it’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week!