This One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort meal for busy nights or game day dinners. Creamy, cheesy macaroni blends perfectly with savory chili, ground beef, beans, and bold spices all cooked together in a single pot for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. Each bite is rich, cheesy, and packed with warmth, making it a favorite for kids and adults alike.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a hearty meal to impress friends, this recipe delivers bold flavor and creamy satisfaction in under 45 minutes. It’s the perfect combination of two classic comfort foods: chili and mac and cheese.

If you love easy, one pot meals that taste indulgent but are simple to make, this chili mac and cheese will quickly become a go to dinner.

Chili Mac and Cheese

What Is One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese?

One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese combines creamy, cheesy pasta with hearty chili — including ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and spices all cooked together in one pot. The macaroni absorbs the chili flavor, and the cheese melts into a luscious sauce, creating a rich, satisfying dish.

Compared to traditional chili or macaroni and cheese:

Cooking in one pot saves time and cleanup
Flavors meld as pasta cooks in the chili base
Less effort than making two separate dishes
Fully customizable with protein, beans, and spice levels

This recipe is perfect for busy families, meal prep, or anyone craving comfort food without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One pot = minimal cleanup
Creamy, cheesy, and hearty
Ready in under 45 minutes
Kid-friendly and family-approved
Easy to customize with your favorite chili ingredients

If you love easy dinners like One Pot Veggie Mac and Cheese or Easy Healthy Baked Mac and Cheese, this recipe belongs in your regular rotation.

How This Recipe Works

Ground beef provides rich, savory flavor
Beans and tomatoes create chili depth and texture
Pasta cooks directly in the chili liquid for full flavor absorption
Cheese melts into the pasta, creating a creamy sauce
One-pot cooking allows flavors to meld perfectly

Ingredients for one pot chili mac and cheese on a counter — Simple pantry ingredients come together to make this easy one pot chili mac and cheese

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter version)
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) kidney or black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups beef or chicken broth

Pasta

12 oz elbow macaroni (or shells/rotini)

Cheese

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella or pepper jack (optional)

Seasonings

1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Optional Toppings

Sour cream
Chopped green onions
Fresh cilantro
Extra shredded cheese

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

Ground beef: Can substitute ground turkey or sausage for a different flavor profile.
Beans: Kidney, black, or pinto beans work well.
Cheese: Cheddar is classic; pepper jack adds a spicy kick.
Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth works if you want a lighter version.
Spices: Adjust chili powder and red pepper flakes to taste.

Close-up of cheesy chili mac and cheese with herbs and spices — Melted cheese and savory chili in every bite

How to Make One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese

Total Time: About 40–45 minutes
Servings: 4–6

Step 1: Cook the Beef

Heat a large pot over medium heat.

Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Add diced onion to the beef and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.

Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Beans, Tomatoes, and Seasonings

Stir in drained beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

Cook for 3–4 minutes to let flavors combine.

Step 4: Add Pasta and Broth

Pour in pasta and broth, making sure the pasta is mostly submerged.

Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low.

Step 5: Simmer

Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is cooked and most liquid is absorbed.

If pasta absorbs too quickly, add a splash more broth or water.

Step 6: Add Cheese

Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella until fully melted and creamy.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Taste and adjust seasoning.

Serve immediately with optional toppings: sour cream, green onions, or extra cheese.

Tips for Perfect Chili Mac and Cheese

Stir occasionally to prevent sticking
Don’t overcook pasta it will continue to absorb liquid after removing from heat
Use freshly shredded cheese for smooth melting
Adjust spices gradually you can always add more heat
Let rest a few minutes before serving to thicken sauce

Flavor Variations

Spicy Chili Mac

Add jalapeños or cayenne pepper for extra heat.

Vegetarian Version

Use kidney beans, black beans, or lentils and vegetable broth; skip the meat.

Tex-Mex Style

Add corn, bell peppers, and top with cilantro and lime juice.

Extra Cheesy

Stir in cream cheese or Velveeta for an ultra creamy texture.

Served one pot chili mac and cheese in a bowl, ready to eat — Ready to dig in! This one pot chili mac and cheese is comfort food at its best

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

Make Ahead

Fully cook the chili base and refrigerate.
Add pasta and cheese when ready to serve.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container
Refrigerate for up to 4 days

Reheating

Reheat on stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen
Microwave in 1–2 minute intervals, stirring in between

Freezing

Freeze before adding pasta for best results
Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes

Serving Ideas

Serve with tortilla chips for scooping
Pair with cornbread or garlic bread
Top with fresh greens or avocado slices
Add sour cream or hot sauce for extra flavor

This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, game day meals, or casual family gatherings.

Nutritional Notes (Approximate per serving)

Calories: 450–500
Protein: 22–25g
Carbs: 50–55g
Fat: 18–22g

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking pasta — it will turn mushy
Not seasoning the chili base enough
Using pre-shredded cheese (can be wax-coated, prevents melting)
Adding pasta before simmering the chili enough
Serving immediately without letting it rest slightly

FAQs About One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese

Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes. Check cooking times and add extra broth if needed.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely. Replace meat with beans or meat alternatives.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes. Use a larger pot and stir frequently.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, but freeze before adding pasta for best texture.

How spicy is this recipe?
Mild by default, but adjust chili powder and red pepper flakes to taste.

Conclusion

This One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is cheesy, hearty, and loaded with flavor — perfect for a cozy dinner with minimal cleanup. The combination of tender pasta, savory chili, and melted cheese makes it a family favorite that’s both comforting and satisfying.

If you love easy dinners like Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole or Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili, this recipe belongs in your regular rotation.

Save this One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese recipe for a cozy, cheesy, and hearty dinner that’s ready in under 45 minutes!

One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese

This One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is hearty, cheesy, and full of bold, comforting flavors. Savory chili and tender pasta meld together in a creamy, melty cheese sauce for a satisfying, all-in-one meal. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy nights in.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Calories 480 kcal