One Pot Chili Mac is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings together the best elements of chili and macaroni and cheese. This meal is made in a single pot, reducing cleanup while delivering bold flavors and a creamy, cheesy finish.
Originally inspired by classic American chili and macaroni dishes, this version takes it up a notch with tender pasta, hearty ground beef, kidney beans, and rich cheddar cheese. The combination of chili spices, tomatoes, and a touch of cream creates a perfectly balanced dish that is ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep.
This recipe is designed to be simple, requiring minimal effort while producing a meal that is both satisfying and filling. Whether you are cooking for a family dinner or looking for leftovers to enjoy throughout the week, this one-pot dish is an excellent choice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour with minimal prep.
- One-Pot Convenience: Fewer dishes and effortless cleanup.
- Hearty & Filling: Packed with protein, fiber, and cheesy goodness.
- Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the heat by choosing mild or hot chilies and adding cayenne as needed.
- Great for Leftovers: The flavors develop even more overnight, making it perfect for meal prep.
Essential Tools & Equipment
To make the best One Pot Chili Mac, having the right tools can make the process easier and more efficient.
- Large Dutch oven or deep pot: Ensures even cooking and prevents overflow.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Helps with stirring and breaking up the beef without scratching the pot.
- Measuring cups & spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient proportions for the best texture and flavor.
- Chef’s knife & cutting board: For chopping onions, bell peppers, and garlic.
Ingredients Breakdown
Main Ingredients & Their Roles
- Olive oil: Helps sauté vegetables and brown the beef.
- Yellow onion & red bell pepper: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Ground beef: The protein base of the dish. Using lean beef helps avoid excess grease.
- Garlic: Enhances the flavor with aromatic depth.
- Chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika: The key spices that give this dish its bold, smoky flavor.
- Crushed tomatoes & chicken broth: Forms the flavorful sauce base.
- Diced green chilies: Adds a mild or spicy kick, depending on your preference.
- Elbow macaroni: Holds onto the sauce well and cooks directly in the pot, absorbing all the flavors.
- Kidney beans: Adds texture, protein, and fiber.
- Half and half (or heavy cream): Provides a creamy finish to balance the spice.
- Cheddar cheese: Melts into the dish, adding richness and creaminess.
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
- Protein alternatives: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based meat.
- Different pasta options: Use whole wheat, gluten-free, or chickpea pasta.
- Cheese variations: Try Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican cheese blend.
- Vegetarian version: Omit the meat and double the beans for a hearty plant-based option.
- Extra spice: Add cayenne, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce for more heat.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or deep pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften.
2. Brown the Ground Beef
Push the sautéed vegetables to one side of the pot. Add the ground beef to the empty space, breaking it into large chunks. Let it sear for about 3 minutes before breaking it up completely. Stir everything together and cook for another 2 minutes until the beef is mostly browned.
3. Add Garlic & Spices
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, stirring for another minute to toast the spices and enhance their flavor.
4. Build the Sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and diced green chilies. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
5. Cook the Pasta & Beans
Stir in the dry elbow macaroni and kidney beans. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cook uncovered for about 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed some of the liquid.
6. Finish with Cheese & Cream
Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the half and half (or heavy cream) and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy. If needed, add an extra ½ cup of broth to adjust the consistency.
7. Serve & Enjoy
Ladle the chili mac into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes. Serve hot and enjoy.
Tips for the Best Chili Mac
- Let the beef sear before breaking it up – This enhances the flavor by caramelizing the meat.
- Don’t overcook the pasta – Since the pasta continues to absorb liquid even after cooking, stop when it’s al dente.
- Adjust the liquid as needed – If the dish thickens too much, stir in a little more broth.
- Use freshly shredded cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture.
- Taste and adjust seasoning – Before serving, adjust salt, pepper, and spice levels to your preference.
Serving Suggestions & Garnish Ideas
One Pot Chili Mac is a complete meal on its own, but the right toppings and sides can enhance the experience.
Best Toppings for Chili Mac
Adding toppings allows you to customize the dish for different preferences. Here are some great options:
- Sour cream – Adds a creamy contrast to the spicy and savory flavors.
- Shredded cheese – Extra cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend enhances the cheesiness.
- Green onions – Fresh and slightly sharp, they add a pop of color and flavor.
- Diced tomatoes – Brings freshness and a bit of acidity to balance the dish.
- Cayenne pepper or hot sauce – For those who love extra heat.
- Crushed tortilla chips – Adds crunch for an interesting texture contrast.
- Avocado or guacamole – A creamy and mild addition that complements the chili spices.
How to Serve
- In a bowl – The simplest and most common way to enjoy this dish.
- As a dip – Serve with tortilla chips for a party-style option.
- Over baked potatoes – Spoon chili mac on top of baked potatoes for a filling variation.
- Stuffed in bell peppers – Hollow out bell peppers, stuff them with chili mac, and bake for a different presentation.
Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
Avoid these common mistakes to ensure the best results when making One Pot Chili Mac.
1. Adding Too Much Pasta
If you add more pasta than the recipe calls for, it will absorb too much liquid, leaving you with a dry dish. Stick to the recommended amount and adjust liquid as needed.
2. Not Browning the Beef Properly
For the best flavor, let the ground beef sear before breaking it up. Stirring too soon prevents caramelization, which enhances the overall taste.
3. Overcooking the Pasta
Pasta should be cooked to an al dente texture, meaning it is firm but tender. Overcooking leads to a mushy consistency, especially since the pasta will continue absorbing liquid even after the heat is turned off.
4. Using Pre-Shredded Cheese
Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Always shred your own cheese for the best texture.
5. Not Adjusting the Liquid
As the dish sits, it thickens. If reheating leftovers, add a splash of broth or milk to bring back the creamy consistency.
6. Underseasoning the Dish
Taste the chili mac before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and spice levels to your preference.
Best Side Dishes for Chili Mac
While Chili Mac is a meal on its own, pairing it with the right side dish can enhance the experience. Here are some great options:
1. Cornbread
A classic pairing with chili, cornbread offers a slightly sweet contrast to the savory and spicy flavors. Serve it warm with butter or honey for extra richness.
2. Garlic Bread
The buttery, garlicky flavor of toasted bread complements the hearty, cheesy chili mac.
3. Side Salad
A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish. Try a simple mix of lettuce, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and red onions.
4. Roasted Vegetables
Roasting vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or carrots adds a nutritious and slightly caramelized side to round out the meal.
5. Coleslaw
A tangy coleslaw with a vinegar-based or creamy dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the heaviness of chili mac.
6. Baked Potatoes
Serving chili mac over baked potatoes makes for an extra-filling meal with great texture.
7. Steamed Broccoli
A light and healthy side that pairs well with the richness of the cheese and beef.
8. Grilled Cheese Sandwich
If you love extra cheese, pairing chili mac with a grilled cheese sandwich takes comfort food to the next level.
Storing & Freezing One Pot Chili Mac
One Pot Chili Mac stores well, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers. Proper storage ensures the best flavor and texture when reheating.
Refrigeration
- Allow the chili mac to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Keep in mind that the pasta will continue to absorb some liquid, so the consistency may thicken over time.
Freezing
- To freeze, let the dish cool completely.
- Store in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags in portions for easy reheating.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Best Ways to Reheat Chili Mac
Reheating properly helps restore the creamy consistency and prevents the pasta from becoming overly soft.
Stovetop Method (Best for Large Portions)
- Place the chili mac in a pot over medium-low heat.
- Add a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.
- Stir occasionally and heat until warmed through, about 5 to 7 minutes.
Microwave Method (Best for Individual Servings)
- Place a portion of chili mac in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Add a small amount of broth or milk to prevent dryness.
- Cover loosely and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until heated through.
Oven Method (Best for Large Batches)
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the chili mac in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil.
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until fully heated.
FAQs About One Pot Chili Mac
Can I make One Pot Chili Mac vegetarian?
Yes. Replace the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or add extra beans such as black beans or pinto beans. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How do I make it spicier?
Increase the amount of chili powder, add cayenne pepper, or use hot green chilies instead of mild ones. You can also stir in hot sauce before serving.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes. Shells, penne, or rotini work well. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can be used, but cooking times may vary.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, but cook the pasta separately. Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything except the pasta to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or high for 2 to 3 hours. Stir in cooked pasta and cheese just before serving.
How do I thicken or thin the sauce?
If the sauce is too thick, add extra broth or milk. If it is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid.
What’s the best cheese for chili mac?
Sharp cheddar is the best choice for a bold, rich flavor. Monterey Jack or Colby cheese can also work well. Avoid using pre-shredded cheese, as it contains anti-caking agents that affect melting.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes. Cook everything except the pasta, then refrigerate. When ready to eat, reheat the base, add uncooked pasta, and simmer until the pasta is tender.
What can I serve with chili mac?
It pairs well with cornbread, garlic bread, a side salad, roasted vegetables, or coleslaw.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes. Ground turkey is a leaner option and works well as a substitute.
Final Thoughts & Additional Recipe Ideas
One Pot Chili Mac is an easy, hearty, and satisfying meal that combines the best of chili and macaroni and cheese. The rich, cheesy sauce, tender pasta, and bold chili spices make it a family favorite that is perfect for busy weeknights.
This recipe is highly customizable, allowing you to adjust the spice level, swap ingredients, or make it vegetarian. Leftovers store well and reheat easily, making it great for meal prep.
For more one-pot meal ideas, try:
- One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta
- One-Pot Taco Pasta
- Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta
One Pot Chili Mac
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 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
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Add the onion and red bell pepper, sautéing for 5 minutes. Push the mixture to one side of the pot.
- Add the ground beef in chunks to the cleared space and let it sear for about 3 minutes. Break up the beef and mix with the onion and peppers. Cook until the beef is nearly cooked through, about 2 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Add chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, stirring for 1 minute to toast the spices.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and diced green chilies. Stir in the macaroni and kidney beans. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender, about 12–15 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the half and half and shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Add more chicken broth if you prefer a thinner consistency.
- Serve with your favorite toppings like green onions, sour cream, diced tomatoes, or extra cheese.
Notes
Adjust the spice level by using mild or hot green chilies and adding cayenne pepper if desired.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Leave a Comment