Irresistible One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe

Name: One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups elbow macaroni; 1 pound lean ground beef; 1 packet taco seasoning; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed; 3 cups low-sodium beef broth; 1 cup bell peppers, chopped; 1 onion, finely chopped; 4 garlic cloves, minced; ½ cup sour cream (optional); Green onions or cilantro (for garnish)

Recipe By:

Alliah

Posted:

July 22, 2025

Updated:

July 22, 2025

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It’s a chilly evening, and the scent of melted cheese and spices wafts through the air, making your stomach rumble with anticipation. One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is not just a dish; it’s a warm hug on a cold day, combining creamy cheese, hearty macaroni, and zesty chili flavors that dance around your taste buds like they’re at a salsa party. slow cooker brisket tacos

Imagine gathering around the table with friends and family, laughter ringing out as you dive into this comforting bowl of goodness. Whether it’s game day or simply a weeknight dinner, One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese steals the show and makes everyone feel right at home. chicken cordon bleu casserole.

[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight cooking stress-free. The bold flavors blend perfectly for a mouthwatering experience. Visually appealing with its cheesy topping and vibrant colors, it’s bound to impress your guests. Versatile enough to customize with your favorite toppings or add-ins, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion! [/info_box]

I remember the first time I made this dish for my friends. Their eyes widened with delight as they dug in, and I knew I had found my culinary soulmate.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Macaroni Pasta: Use medium shells or elbow macaroni for the perfect bite-sized shape that holds all that cheesy goodness.
Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthy protein boost while keeping that meaty flavor. For more inspiration, check out this Easy Ground Beef And Potatoes Casserole recipe.
Taco Seasoning: A packet will do wonders here; it adds depth without much fuss.
Cheddar Cheese: About two cups of shredded cheddar is essential for that ooey-gooey texture we all crave.
Canned Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes bring moisture and tang; opt for fire-roasted if you like a smoky kick.
Kidney Beans: These add heartiness; rinsing them helps reduce sodium content while enhancing flavor.
Beef Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels without sacrificing flavor.
Bell Peppers: Chop in some colorful bell peppers to add sweetness and crunch—red or yellow are great choices!
Onion: A finely chopped onion enriches the dish with sweetness as it cooks down.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh minced garlic adds aromatic depth; don’t skimp on this one!
Sour Cream: Optional but highly recommended for an extra creamy finish before serving.
Green Onions or Cilantro (for garnish): Fresh herbs brighten up the dish and provide a pop of color on top!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. hot sausage feta pizza.

Let’s Make it together

The Preparation Phase : Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop onions, bell peppers, and garlic so everything is ready at your fingertips. This makes cooking smoother!

Browning the Meat : In a large pot over medium heat, brown one pound of ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess grease if necessary. The aroma will be irresistible!

Add the Vegetables : Toss in chopped onions, bell peppers, and garlic into the pot. Cook until everything softens up—about five minutes—smelling heavenly all along!

Mixing in Flavor : Sprinkle taco seasoning over everything while stirring in diced tomatoes (with juice), kidney beans, macaroni pasta, and beef broth. Make sure it all combines well—this is where magic happens!

Simmer Away : Allow the mixture to come to a boil before reducing heat to low. Cover it tightly and let simmer for about 15 minutes or until pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

The Cheesy Finale : Once cooked perfectly, remove from heat before stirring in shredded cheddar cheese until melted into gooey perfection! You may want to add sour cream here for extra creaminess.

Garnish and Serve : Finally, scoop portions into bowls before garnishing with green onions or cilantro. Serve hot—and watch everyone swoon over this delightful One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese!

With these simple steps completed, you’ll have an amazing dish that keeps everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds!).

Enjoying One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is not just about satisfying hunger; it’s about creating moments filled with warmth, laughter, and deliciousness! For more inspiration, check out this Delicious Cajun Lasagna Recipe recipe.

[info_box title=”You Must Know”] One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is a delightful dish that combines the comfort of mac and cheese with the hearty flavors of chili. The blend of creamy cheese and spicy chili warms your soul, making it perfect for cozy nights in or casual gatherings with friends. [/info_box]

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning ground beef or turkey first, then add onions and garlic for flavor. Next, toss in the macaroni, broth, diced tomatoes, and spices. ground beef lettuce wraps Let it simmer until the pasta absorbs all those delicious flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out regular macaroni for whole grain or gluten-free pasta. You can also throw in your favorite beans, corn, or even jalapeños for an extra kick. This dish is versatile and open to creative interpretations!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk for creaminess if needed.

[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is a weeknight lifesaver; it’s quick to prepare and clean up afterward is a breeze! Enhance flavors by using freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded varieties for better meltability. Always taste as you go; seasoning adjustments make all the difference! [/info_box]

I remember the first time I made One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese for my friends; they were impressed by how quickly I whipped it up while chatting away! It became an instant favorite at our gatherings.

FAQ

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack work wonderfully for this dish.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese stores well and reheats beautifully throughout the week.

How can I make it vegetarian?

Simply substitute meat with lentils or black beans to maintain heartiness without sacrificing flavor.