This One-Pot Chili Mac and Cheese brings together the bold flavors of chili and the creaminess of mac and cheese in a hearty, satisfying meal. It’s the perfect comfort food that can be enjoyed by the whole family.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity – with just one pot, you can make a flavorful, cheesy meal in under 30 minutes. The ground beef adds a savory richness, while the blend of spices and cheese creates a creamy texture that is simply irresistible. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving a warm, comforting dinner.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (4 oz) can green chilies
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional)
Directions:
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot and sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is softened.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, green chilies, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add the elbow macaroni to the pot, stirring to combine. Reduce the heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream, if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 550 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
A Comforting and Hearty Meal
One-Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is a delicious and hearty dish that brings together two beloved comfort foods: chili and mac and cheese. The perfect balance of bold, spicy flavors with rich, creamy cheese makes this recipe a family favorite that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or cozy weekends at home.
The Origin of Chili Mac and Cheese
The concept of combining chili with macaroni and cheese has roots in both American and Tex-Mex cuisine. Chili, a staple in Texas and the Southwestern United States, is typically made from beef, tomatoes, beans, and a blend of spices, often served with cornbread or over rice. On the other hand, mac and cheese, with its origins in Europe, has been a comfort food favorite for generations. The fusion of these two classic dishes into one delicious, one-pot meal is a modern twist on traditional comfort food.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. It allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds—spicy chili and creamy, cheesy pasta—without the hassle of preparing two separate dishes. By combining everything in a single pot, this recipe cuts down on preparation and cleanup time, making it an ideal meal for busy families or anyone craving a quick and satisfying meal.
Why One-Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is the Best Choice for Dinner
There are many reasons why One-Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is the ultimate dinner choice, from its rich flavor to its convenience. Here are some key benefits:
- Convenience and Simplicity One of the biggest advantages of this recipe is its simplicity. Everything is cooked in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. You don’t need to worry about dirtying multiple pans or spending a lot of time in the kitchen. Once you’ve browned the beef, all you have to do is add the ingredients, let them simmer, and enjoy a satisfying meal in under 30 minutes.
- Quick and Easy Life can be hectic, and finding time to cook a homemade meal can sometimes feel like a challenge. This One-Pot Chili Mac and Cheese recipe is a game-changer when it comes to quick meals. It’s ready in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights when you don’t have much time to cook but still want a wholesome, flavorful meal.
- Family-Friendly This dish is great for the whole family. Kids will love the cheesy pasta, while adults will appreciate the bold flavors of the chili. The combination of spices, beans, and cheese makes for a meal that’s full of taste and texture. It’s an easy way to introduce new flavors to your children while still providing them with the comfort of mac and cheese.
- Hearty and Filling One-Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is incredibly filling and satisfying. The ground beef and beans provide protein, while the cheese and pasta make it a comforting and rich dish. It’s the kind of meal that will keep you full for hours, making it perfect for dinner after a long day.
- Customizable The beauty of this dish is how easily it can be customized. If you prefer a spicier chili, you can add more chili powder or toss in some jalapeños or hot sauce. If you’re not a fan of beans, you can omit them or substitute with another type of bean. You can also switch out the ground beef for turkey or even plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version. The recipe is versatile, allowing you to make adjustments based on your personal preferences or dietary restrictions.
- Affordable and Budget-Friendly This dish uses simple, affordable ingredients that are pantry staples in most households. Ground beef, beans, pasta, and cheese are inexpensive, making it a great choice for those looking for a budget-friendly meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. Whether you’re feeding a family or cooking for yourself, this meal is easy on the wallet.
- Comforting and Satisfying There’s something inherently comforting about mac and cheese, and when paired with the hearty, warming flavors of chili, it’s the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re in need of a pick-me-up after a long day or simply want to indulge in something warm and satisfying, this dish delivers. The blend of cheesy goodness with a hint of spice and savory beef will leave you feeling content and nourished.
Tips for Making the Perfect One-Pot Chili Mac and Cheese
- Use a Quality Cheese: The key to a creamy, flavorful mac and cheese is high-quality cheese. Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but you can experiment with other varieties like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a blend of cheeses for extra depth of flavor.
- Make It Spicy or Mild: Adjust the heat level to suit your preferences. If you like a spicier dish, consider adding fresh jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or more chili powder. For a milder version, reduce the amount of chili powder or omit the green chilies.
- Add Vegetables: You can easily sneak in some vegetables for added nutrition. Try adding chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach to the chili mixture for extra vitamins and fiber.
- Top It Off: For an extra touch, serve your chili mac with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of green onions. A side of cornbread or a fresh salad can also complement this dish perfectly.
The Ultimate Comfort Food in One Pot
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes hit the spot quite like One-Pot Chili Mac and Cheese. The marriage of chili and mac and cheese in a single dish creates a warm, flavorful meal that satisfies on every level. It’s easy to make, incredibly tasty, and has the added bonus of being customizable to suit your tastes.
This recipe not only makes an ideal weeknight meal but also works well for potlucks, family gatherings, or even meal prep. It’s a dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and can be made in large batches for a crowd. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting a casual get-together, or just craving something comforting, One-Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is always a winning choice.
Conclusion
One-Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is the best of both worlds. It brings together the bold flavors of chili with the comforting, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese, creating a satisfying and delicious meal that will become a household favorite. It’s quick, easy, affordable, and versatile—everything you want in a weeknight dinner. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll be hooked after the first bite!