One Pot Chili Mac

One Pot Chili Mac is a go-to dish in my house whenever we crave something warm hearty and cheesy but want minimal dishes to clean. Combining the best bits of chili and creamy macaroni this meal comes together quickly and delivers rich flavors in every bite. It is a true savior for weeknight dinners or any day you just want full comfort in a bowl without much fuss.

The first time I made this everyone went for seconds plus there were barely any leftovers to pack for lunch the next day. It is one of those recipes that instantly earned a spot in my regular rotation.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Elbow macaroni: The classic short shape absorbs all the chili flavors and cooks quickly Look for whole wheat for extra fiber if you prefer
• Ground beef or turkey: Gives this dish its heartiness Choose lean meat for a lighter result
• Chili powder: Delivers classic chili warmth and depth Opt for fresh spices so the flavor really pops
• Canned diced tomatoes: Bring brightness acidity and a bit of that traditional chili flavor
• Black beans: Add protein creamy texture plus lots of fiber Make sure to rinse well to remove excess salt
• Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully throughout for that irresistible creamy finish Use a good block and shred it yourself if you can for best melting
• Medium onion: Essential for building a flavorful base Pick onions that are heavy and free of soft spots
• Garlic cloves: Boosts all the other flavors Choose bulbs that are plump and firm
• Low-sodium beef broth: Adds depth while managing saltiness Taste your broth before adding more seasoning
• Bell peppers: Bring a little sweetness crunch and color Any color will work so go with your favorite
• Olive oil: Kickstarts the aromatics and adds subtle richness Use extra virgin for more flavor

How to Make It

Gather Ingredients:

Set out every ingredient measured and chopped This streamlines cooking and avoids last minute scrambling

Sauté the Aromatics:

In a large pot drizzle olive oil and heat over medium Add chopped onions and minced garlic Cook for three to five minutes stirring often until onions turn translucent and the fragrance deepens This forms the flavor backbone

Brown the Meat:

Add ground beef or turkey to the pot Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks Continue until fully browned about five to seven minutes Drain excess fat if needed

Season the Base:

Sprinkle chili powder over the meat along with a pinch of salt and pepper Stir thoroughly so every bit of meat is seasoned Let it cook for one to two minutes This deepens the spice flavor

Add Main Ingredients:

Pour in diced tomatoes black beans bell peppers uncooked macaroni and beef broth Stir everything together so the pasta is submerged and evenly mixed

Simmer:

Bring the pot to a gentle boil then reduce the heat to low Cover and let it simmer for fifteen to twenty minutes stirring once or twice Pasta should be just tender and most liquid absorbed

Add Cheese:

Turn off the heat Scatter shredded cheddar over the finished chili mac Let it sit for a minute or two then stir until cheese is melty and the sauce is creamy Serve hot

The cheddar is honestly my favorite part It wraps every noodle in a creamy hug and always melts perfectly when stirred through hot pasta An uncle once declared this better than his favorite diner chili mac and I have been making it ever since

Flavor Boosters

Toast your chili powder in the hot pan before adding other liquids to bring out extra depth For a creamier version try stirring in a splash of whole milk or a spoonful of cream cheese at the end Always taste for salt and adjust just before serving as broths and canned items vary

Serving Suggestions

Ladle into deep bowls and add toppings like chopped green onions sliced jalapeno or an extra sprinkle of cheese Great with a green salad on the side or warm cornbread Serve it as a hearty main or as a side at any potluck

Creative Twists

You can easily swap ground beef for ground turkey or skip the meat for vegetarian chili mac using extra beans Any short pasta works well and feel free to use different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a twist If you have mild eaters just dial down the chili powder or stir in a dollop of sour cream

This chili mac has saved me from takeout countless times. Whip it up for game day or busy weeknights and enjoy pure comfort in a bowl.

Common Questions About the Recipe

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is an excellent substitute for beef and produces a lighter but still flavorful result.

→ Is it necessary to cook pasta separately?

No, the elbow macaroni cooks directly in the pot alongside other ingredients, absorbing all the flavors.

→ How can I make it spicier?

Add extra chili powder, diced jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce during cooking to boost the heat level.

→ Could I use different beans?

Yes, pinto or kidney beans work well and add their own unique texture and taste to the dish.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat before serving.

→ Can other cheeses be used?

Sharp cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese can add variety and extra flavor.