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One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese

Homemade One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese plated on white dish

This One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is a hearty, comforting dish combining creamy mac and cheese with flavorful chili, perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 cup elbow macaroni
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
  2. Add ground beef and garlic to the pot. Cook until beef is browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon.
  3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
  4. Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, beef broth, and elbow macaroni. Stir to combine.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and creamy.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with additional cheese or fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

For extra heat, add a chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce. Serving with a side of sour cream or chopped green onions complements the flavors well.