Description
One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is a comforting and hearty dish combining the richness of mac and cheese with the bold flavors of chili. With ground beef (or turkey), beans, spices, and two types of cheese, it’s the perfect one-pot wonder for a satisfying meal that comes together in under 30 minutes. This easy, cheesy dish is ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead.
Ingredients
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1 lb ground beef or turkey (plant-based crumbles for vegetarian option)
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1 small onion, diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
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1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
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1 can (15 oz) black or kidney beans, drained and rinsed
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2 cups beef or vegetable broth
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
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2 tbsp chili powder
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1 tsp cumin
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Optional toppings: Sour cream, green onions, jalapeños, crushed tortilla chips
Instructions
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Cook Meat & Veggies: Brown the ground beef (or turkey) in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
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Add Liquids & Seasonings: Stir in diced tomatoes, beans, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
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Cook Macaroni: Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the pot. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until the macaroni is tender.
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Add Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Stir until melted and creamy.
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Serve & Garnish: Serve the chili mac topped with sour cream, green onions, jalapeños, or crushed tortilla chips if desired.
Notes
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Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef or turkey for plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian-friendly version.
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Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese to make it dairy-free, and substitute vegetable broth for a fully dairy-free dish.
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Meal Prep Tip: This chili mac keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, and it reheats beautifully.
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Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder and jalapeños to make the dish as spicy or mild as you prefer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: One-pot cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 530 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese, Chili Mac, Easy Chili Mac, One-Pot Meal, Cheesy Chili Mac, Comfort Food, Weeknight Dinner