One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is a comforting dish that combines the classic flavors of chili with creamy macaroni and cheese, all prepared in a single pot. This delightful recipe simplifies meal preparation, minimizes cleanup, and promises a hearty meal that your whole family will love. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, you can enjoy a filling dinner without the fuss of multiple pans or dishes.
Why We Love This One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe
This One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese recipe is not just easy to make; it’s absolutely versatile and effortlessly delicious. Whether you’re having a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering, this recipe fits perfectly. By cooking everything in one pot, you save on dishes and time, making it an ideal choice for busy cooks. The blend of hearty ground beef, nutrient-packed beans, and creamy cheese creates a meal that satisfies both hunger and comfort. Each spoonful delivers a burst of flavor, and you can customize it to fit your family’s taste preferences.
Ingredients for One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) beans (black or kidney, drained and rinsed)
- 2 cups macaroni pasta
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese
To create this delicious dish, start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Cook it until it’s no longer pink, ensuring it’s thoroughly cooked. As the beef cooks, you can break it up into smaller, bite-sized pieces for easier eating later. Once cooked, drain any excess grease to keep your dish from being too oily.
Next, add the drained beans, diced tomatoes, beef broth, macaroni, chili powder, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper. Stir all the ingredients together in the pot until well combined. This not only helps incorporate all the flavors but also sets the stage for the delicious mac and cheese base.
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Keep an eye on it, as you don’t want it to boil over. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot with a lid and let it cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the macaroni reaches an al dente texture. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking.
When the pasta is just right, add in the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts completely, enveloping the macaroni and beef mixture in a creamy, cheesy sauce. The cheese not only enhances the flavor but also adds a rich texture to the dish.
Serve warm right out of the pot for a delightful family meal. You will surely enjoy the warmth and comfort this dish brings to your dining experience.
How to Serve One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese
When it’s time to serve your One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese, you have plenty of options to make the meal even more enjoyable. Ladle portions into bowls and sprinkle with additional shredded cheese or fresh herbs like parsley or green onions for a pop of color. You can also add a dash of hot sauce for those who love a bit of heat or serve it with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, offering a crisp contrast to the warm, cheesy chili mac. It’s a great dish for gatherings, as you can easily double the recipe to feed a crowd. Consider setting out bowls of toppings, like sliced jalapeños, sour cream, or diced avocado, so everyone can customize their servings.
Expert Tips: One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese
To make the best One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese, there are a few expert tips to keep in mind. First, when browning the ground beef, ensure it’s cooked evenly by breaking up the meat as it cooks. This creates a better texture throughout the dish.
For a creamier consistency, don’t hesitate to adjust the cheese amount to your liking. If you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes along with the chili powder.
While the recipe calls for beef broth, you can substitute it for chicken broth for a slightly different flavor. Additionally, feel free to swap out the cheese; pepper jack or Monterey Jack cheese can provide an exciting twist.
How to Store One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese
Leftovers of your One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese can be a lifesaver for busy weeknights. After the dish has cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will be good for up to three to four days.
If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the dish. Place the cooled chili mac in a freezer-safe container, ensuring no air can get in. It can be stored for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or microwave until heated through.
Variation of One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese
While this One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese recipe is delicious as is, it offers plenty of room for creativity. You can add vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor. Simply chop the vegetables finely and toss them in with the other ingredients for cooking.
For a meatier version, consider adding diced cooked chicken or turkey. If you’re looking to make it vegetarian, you can skip the meat altogether and load up on beans and veggies for a hearty alternative.
For those who enjoy different flavors, think about incorporating spices like cumin or smoked paprika. They add a unique depth that can elevate your meal. Switch up the cheese to incorporate your family’s favorites, whether it’s Gouda or a blend of various cheeses.
FAQ
What is One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese?
One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is a comfort food dish that combines macaroni pasta, ground beef, beans, diced tomatoes, and cheddar cheese, all cooked in a single pot for simplicity and warmth.
How long does it take to make One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese?
From start to finish, making One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese usually takes around 30 minutes, making it a quick option for weeknight dinners.
Can I make a vegetarian version of One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese?
Yes! You can easily swap out ground beef for additional beans or lentils and can feel free to load up on your favorite vegetables for a filling vegetarian dish.
How do I store leftovers of One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese?
Allow the dish to cool and transfer leftovers to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Can I add more spices to One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese?
Absolutely! You can customize the flavor by adding spices like cumin, smoked paprika, or even some diced jalapeños for a touch of heat.
One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef Hearty and provides main protein.
- 1 can (15 oz) beans (black or kidney, drained and rinsed) Adds fiber and protein.
- 2 cups macaroni pasta Main carb source.
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes Provides acidity and flavor.
- 2 cups beef broth Enhances flavor.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese For creaminess and taste.
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon chili powder Adds spice and depth.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder Enhances flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain any excess grease.
- Add the drained beans, diced tomatoes, beef broth, macaroni, chili powder, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Stir until well combined.
Cooking
- Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 8-10 minutes or until macaroni is al dente, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts completely.
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