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.
Ingredients
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
Instructions
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.
Video
Notes
📝 Notes
- Use lean ground beef or turkey for a lighter version
- Substitute shredded cheddar with a Mexican blend for extra flavor
- Use whole wheat pasta to increase fiber content
- Add extra beans or vegetables for more nutrition
- Simmer chili sauce gently to prevent burning
- Top with fresh cilantro or green onions before serving
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge up to 3 days
- Reheat gently on the stove or microwave to maintain creaminess