If you’re craving a cozy, comforting meal that combines the hearty flavors of chili with the creamy satisfaction of macaroni and cheese, you’ve just found your new favorite. This One-Pot Chili Mac Recipe brings together savory ground beef, robust spices, tender pasta, and melty cheese all in one easy dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want minimal fuss but maximum flavor, and it’s sure to become a go-to meal in your home, whether you’re cooking for family or friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients are often the secret to truly delicious cooking, and this recipe proves it. Each item plays a key role, from the juicy ground beef adding protein and richness, to the bright diced tomatoes that contribute a pop of acidity and color. The combination of spices and cheese creates that irresistible chili mac flavor and creamy texture that everyone will love.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides a hearty, savory base packed with protein to make the dish satisfying.
- 2 garlic cloves (minced): Adds aromatic depth and a subtle kick that elevates the flavors.
- 2 Tbsp dried minced onion flakes: Impart a natural sweetness and savory undertone without extra chopping.
- 1 (8-oz) tomato sauce: Brings smoothness and a well-rounded tomato flavor to the mix.
- 1 (14.5-oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained): Offers texture and bursts of juicy acidity to balance the richness.
- 3 cups beef broth: Gives the pasta plenty of moisture to cook perfectly while enriching the flavor.
- 10-oz elbow macaroni (uncooked): Absorbs all those delicious flavors while providing a fun, classic mac shape.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully at the end, bringing creamy sharpness that rounds out the dish.
- 1 (1.75-oz) packet chili seasoning: A convenient blend of spices to deliver authentic chili flavor quickly.
- 1 tsp pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth to enhance the overall taste.
- ½ tsp salt: Balances all the flavors perfectly without overpowering.
- 2 tsp chili powder: Boosts that smoky, spicy note characteristic of classic chili.
- 1 (15-oz) can chili beans (undrained): Provides creaminess, fiber, and a satisfying texture that makes this dish complete.
How to Make One-Pot Chili Mac Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
Start by heating your Dutch oven over medium-high heat and adding the ground beef. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until it’s no longer pink, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step develops a rich, savory foundation for the dish. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the chili mac flavorful but not greasy.
Step 2: Add Your Flavorful Ingredients
Next, toss in the minced garlic and dried onion flakes right into the pot, stirring them in to release their savory aromas. Then add the tomato sauce, undrained diced tomatoes, beef broth, uncooked elbow macaroni, chili seasoning packet, pepper, salt, chili powder, and undrained chili beans. Stir everything together so that the pasta is evenly nestled in this vibrant, chunky sauce.
Step 3: Simmer Until Tender
Bring the entire pot to a rolling boil over high heat. After reaching a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and let it simmer at a gentle bubble for 15 to 18 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure the macaroni cooks evenly, soaking up all those spicy, tomatoey flavors. When the pasta is tender, you’re ready for the final touch.
Step 4: Add the Cheese and Serve
Turn off the heat and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Give it a gentle stir until the cheese melts into gooey, rich ribbons that bind everything together. This is where the magic happens—the melted cheese perfectly complements the chili spices, creating a dish that’s both hearty and comforting.
How to Serve One-Pot Chili Mac Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro or green onions over your serving to add a fresh, herbaceous contrast. A dollop of sour cream or a few slices of jalapeño peppers can also amp up the creaminess or provide a spicy kick if you like things bold. Even a pinch of extra shredded cheese or a drizzle of hot sauce can make each bowl feel like a little celebration.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, but a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some buttery garlic bread are fantastic companions. They add a crisp or crunchy element to balance the creamy chili mac, creating a well-rounded meal that satisfies every craving.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, spoon the chili mac into individual ramekins or hollowed-out bell peppers for a festive presentation. You can also layer it in a casserole dish topped with extra cheese and bake until bubbly for a crowd-pleasing potluck meal. These ideas make it easy to customize the dish for different occasions and keep things exciting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you manage to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors deepen overnight, making your chili mac taste even better the next day. Consume within 3 to 4 days for the best texture and freshness.
Freezing
This One-Pot Chili Mac Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave some room at the top for expansion. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to preserve its wonderful texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat the chili mac gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave it in short bursts to avoid drying out. Add a splash of beef broth or water if it seems too thick, and stir in a little extra cheese if you want to bring back that fresh-from-the-pot creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works great as a leaner alternative in this One-Pot Chili Mac Recipe. Just keep an eye on cooking times since turkey tends to cook faster and can dry out if overcooked.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat substitute or extra beans and vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. Using vegetable broth will keep the flavors rich and satisfying without meat.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
This recipe is designed for stovetop cooking to achieve the perfect pasta texture, but you can adapt it for a slow cooker by pre-cooking the beef and layering the ingredients. Just add uncooked pasta toward the end of the cooking time and keep an eye to avoid mushiness.
What type of cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar cheese is ideal because it melts well and gives a nice tangy flavor, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack for some heat, or even a blend of cheeses for extra depth.
How spicy is this One-Pot Chili Mac Recipe?
The spice level is moderate thanks to the chili seasoning and chili powder, but you can easily adjust the heat by adding more chili powder or fresh jalapeños if you prefer it spicier. Conversely, tone down the chili powder for a milder dish perfect for kids.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pot Chili Mac Recipe is the ultimate weeknight savior, combining bold chili flavors with creamy mac and cheese in a way that’s simply irresistible. It’s straightforward to make, wonderfully customizable, and foolproof enough to keep coming back to. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a staple in your comfort food lineup. So gather your ingredients, fire up your stove, and enjoy every delicious spoonful!
Print
One-Pot Chili Mac Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This One-Pot Chili Mac is a hearty, flavorful dish combining ground beef, elbow macaroni, chili beans, and a blend of spices all cooked together in one pot for an easy, comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Meat & Protein
- 1 lb ground beef
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 Tbsp dried minced onion flakes
Canned Goods & Liquids
- 1 (8-oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5-oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 (15-oz) can chili beans, undrained
Dry Goods & Pasta
- 10 oz elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 (1.75-oz) packet chili seasoning
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 tsp pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 tsp chili powder
Dairy
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Cook the beef: In a Dutch oven over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until it is no longer pink. Make sure to break it up into crumbles as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain the fat from the pot to reduce grease.
- Add ingredients and bring to boil: Add the minced garlic, dried onion flakes, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juice, beef broth, uncooked elbow macaroni, chili seasoning packet, chili powder, pepper, salt, and chili beans with their juice to the pot. Stir all ingredients together thoroughly. Increase heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer until pasta is tender: Once boiling, cover the Dutch oven and reduce the heat to low or medium-low to maintain a simmer. Cook for 15 to 18 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta has softened and absorbed flavors from the sauce.
- Add cheese and serve: Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and evenly distributed. Serve hot, garnished with additional cheese if desired.
Notes
- Use a Dutch oven or a large heavy pot to ensure even cooking and enough space to stir without spilling.
- For a leaner option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef.
- Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Adjust chili powder and seasoning to taste, especially if preferring it more or less spicy.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
