One Pot Chili Mac

This One Pot Chili Mac is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Combining the hearty flavors of beef chili, macaroni pasta, and gooey melted cheese, it promises to satisfy everyone at the table. Plus, its simple preparation makes it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or meal prep. You’ll love how this comforting dish offers ample leftovers for those hungry days ahead!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For Optional Toppings
• How to Make One Pot Chili Mac
• Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
• Step 2: Brown the Beef
• Step 3: Add Garlic and Spices
• Step 4: Combine Remaining Ingredients
• Step 5: Simmer
• Step 6: Add Creaminess
• Step 7: Serve
• How to Serve One Pot Chili Mac
• Top with Fresh Ingredients
• Spice It Up
• Add More Cheese
• How to Perfect One Pot Chili Mac
• Best Side Dishes for One Pot Chili Mac
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing One Pot Chili Mac
• Reheating One Pot Chili Mac
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is One Pot Chili Mac?
• Can I customize my One Pot Chili Mac?
• How long does One Pot Chili Mac take to prepare?
• Is One Pot Chili Mac healthy?
• Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 45 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight meals.
• One-Pot Wonder: Cooking everything in one pot means less mess and easier cleanup!
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize it by adjusting spice levels or adding your favorite toppings like sour cream or green onions.
• Family-Friendly: With its rich flavors and cheesy goodness, even picky eaters will enjoy this meal.
• Great Leftovers: Make a big batch and enjoy delicious leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make this One Pot Chili Mac, you need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A must-have for cooking everything together without overflowing.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring ingredients without damaging your pot’s surface.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for consistent results.

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 (about 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

For Optional Toppings

• Sliced green onions
• Sour cream
• Diced tomatoes
• Cayenne pepper

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How to Make One Pot Chili Mac

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Push the mixture to one side of the pot.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef in chunks to the cleared space in the pot. Let it sear for about 3 minutes. Break up the beef and mix it with the onion and peppers. Cook until the beef is nearly cooked through, about 2 more minutes.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Spices

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. Then add chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Stir for another minute to toast the spices.

Step 4: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Pour in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and diced green chilies. Stir in elbow macaroni and kidney beans. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a simmer. Lower the heat to low and cook uncovered while stirring occasionally until pasta is tender, about 12–15 minutes.

Step 6: Add Creaminess

Remove from heat. Stir in half and half along with shredded cheese until melted and creamy. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add more chicken broth as needed.

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot with your favorite toppings like sliced green onions, sour cream, diced tomatoes, or extra cheese on top!

How to Serve One Pot Chili Mac

One Pot Chili Mac is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a casual gathering, these suggestions will enhance your meal.

Top with Fresh Ingredients

• Sliced Green Onions: Add a pop of color and mild onion flavor.
• Diced Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes provide a refreshing contrast to the rich chili mac.
• Sour Cream: Creaminess from sour cream balances the spices nicely.

Spice It Up

• Cayenne Pepper: For those who like an extra kick, sprinkle some cayenne on top.
• Hot Sauce: A few dashes of your favorite hot sauce can elevate the heat level.

Add More Cheese

• Extra Shredded Cheese: For cheese lovers, melting more cheddar on top is always a good idea.
• Cream Cheese Swirl: Adding dollops of cream cheese before serving gives a creamy texture.

How to Perfect One Pot Chili Mac

Perfecting your One Pot Chili Mac is easy with a few simple tips. These will help you achieve the best flavor and texture.

• Use Lean Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to keep the dish healthier without sacrificing flavor.
• Toast Your Spices: Toasting chili powder and cumin enhances their flavors, making the dish more aromatic.
• Adjust Consistency: Use chicken broth to modify thickness; add more for soupier chili mac or less for a thicker consistency.
• Incorporate Beans for Fiber: Adding kidney beans boosts the fiber content and makes it heartier.
• Let it Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes helps thicken it and melds the flavors together.

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Best Side Dishes for One Pot Chili Mac

Pairing side dishes with One Pot Chili Mac can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options that complement its flavors.

1. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs perfectly with the spicy flavors of chili mac.
2. Green Salad: A simple green salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the dish.
3. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is great for scooping up any leftover chili mac.
4. Coleslaw: The crunch and tang of coleslaw provide a nice contrast to the warm chili mac.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add nutrients and color to your plate.
6. Potato Chips: Crunchy chips make for a fun side, adding texture alongside your hearty meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making One Pot Chili Mac can be a straightforward process, but it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Skipping the Searing Step: Failing to sear the beef properly can result in a less flavorful dish. Make sure to give the beef time to brown before mixing it with the vegetables.
• Not Measuring Spices: Over or under seasoning can drastically change the taste of your chili mac. Always measure spices like chili powder and cumin for balanced flavors.
• Ignoring Pasta Cooking Time: Cooking the macaroni too long will lead to mushy pasta. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to ensure it cooks just right.
• Forgetting About Consistency: Not adjusting the thickness of your chili mac can lead to a dry dish. Add extra chicken broth if you prefer a creamier texture.
• Neglecting Toppings: Skipping optional toppings can make your dish feel incomplete. Enhance your chili mac experience with sliced green onions, sour cream, or extra cheese.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool before sealing.

Freezing One Pot Chili Mac

• Freeze in portioned containers for easy meals later.
• It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating One Pot Chili Mac

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer portions to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over low heat. Stir occasionally until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is One Pot Chili Mac?

One Pot Chili Mac is a comfort food dish that combines chili and macaroni pasta in one pot, making it both hearty and convenient.

Can I customize my One Pot Chili Mac?

Absolutely! You can adjust spice levels or add different beans and vegetables based on your preference.

How long does One Pot Chili Mac take to prepare?

The total preparation time is about 45 minutes, including cooking and prep work.

Is One Pot Chili Mac healthy?

This dish contains lean protein from beef and fiber from kidney beans, making it a filling option that can fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, using ground turkey is a great alternative for those looking for a leaner option while still enjoying the delicious flavors of chili mac.

Final Thoughts

One Pot Chili Mac is an easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. With its rich flavors and ample servings, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, you can customize it with different toppings or ingredients based on what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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