Non Veg Recipes Mason Williams March 2, 2025 0 Comments

Chili Mac (One Pot Recipe)

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a warm bowl of chili mac. It’s the ultimate comfort food—rich, hearty, and packed with flavor. This one-pot chili mac recipe combines the best of both worlds: the bold spices of chili and the cheesy, comforting goodness of macaroni. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a potluck, this dish is sure to be a hit. The best part? You’ll only need one pot, making cleanup a breeze!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Chili Mac

Minimal cleanup – One pot means fewer dishes!
Quick & easy – Ready in under 40 minutes.
Flavor-packed – Spices, cheese, and beef make it irresistible.
Versatile – Easily customizable to your taste.
Great for leftovers – Tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ground beef (1 lb.) – Lean ground beef works best, but you can also use turkey or a plant-based alternative.
Onion (1 medium, diced) – Adds a mild sweetness and depth to the dish.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Essential for that robust flavor.
Diced tomatoes (1 can, 15 oz.) – Provides a rich, tangy base.
Tomato sauce (1 can, 8 oz.) – Helps create a smooth, flavorful sauce.
Beef broth (2 cups) – Adds depth and keeps the pasta from drying out.
Elbow macaroni (2 cups, uncooked) – Classic choice for chili mac.
Kidney beans (1 can, drained and rinsed) – Optional, but adds protein and texture.
Chili powder (1 tbsp.) – The star spice that gives chili mac its signature kick.
Cumin (1 tsp.) – Adds warmth and depth.
Paprika (1 tsp.) – Enhances color and smokiness.
Salt & black pepper (to taste) – Balances flavors.
Cheddar cheese (2 cups, shredded) – The final touch of melty, gooey goodness.
Olive oil (1 tbsp.) – Used for sautéing.

How to Make One-Pot Chili Mac

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess grease if necessary.

Step 3: Add the Base Ingredients

Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all the flavors.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Pour in the beef broth and bring to a gentle boil. Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Ladle the chili mac into bowls and garnish with extra cheese, fresh cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream if desired. Serve hot!

Tips & Variations

Make it spicier – Add cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
Vegetarian version – Swap the beef for plant-based crumbles or extra beans.
Gluten-free option – Use gluten-free pasta.
Extra cheesy – Mix in some Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese.
Add crunch – Top with crushed tortilla chips for texture.

Final Thoughts

This one-pot chili mac recipe is a perfect balance of flavors—rich, cheesy, and packed with bold spices. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a meal prep solution, or a comforting weeknight treat, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy. Try it out and let us know how it turns out!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make chili mac ahead of time?

Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth to loosen it up.