One-Pot Chili Mac
This One-Pot Chili Mac is a Family Favorite!
One-Pot Chili Mac is the ultimate comfort food that everyone can rally around. Whether you’re rushing home from work or planning a cozy family dinner, this dish blends the hearty goodness of chili with the satisfying bite of macaroni—all in one pot! I stumbled upon this recipe during a particularly hectic week and found it not only to be delicious but also a lifesaver for busy evenings. The creamy, cheesy consistency with the seasoned beef makes it irresistibly comforting, perfect for any occasion.
Reasons to Try It
You might be wondering why this recipe should occupy a spot in your weekly meal rotation. Well, let me tell you, it’s quick, budget-friendly, and most importantly, kid-approved! This one-pot wonder combines pantry staples with robust flavors in just about 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners. Plus, it’s versatile enough to personalize and serve on game days, during family gatherings, or even as a potluck dish.
"This Chili Mac is a game changer! My kids ask for it every week, and I love how easy it is to make." – A happy mom
Preparing One-Pot Chili Mac
Let’s break down how this dish comes together seamlessly. In just a few simple steps, you’ll create a hearty and flavorful meal that satisfies the entire family. The best part? You’ll only need one pot, which means less cleanup!
What you’ll need
Gather these key ingredients for an unforgettable dish:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Feel free to swap the ground beef with turkey or a plant-based alternative to cater to dietary preferences. You can even throw in some black beans for an extra protein boost!
Step-by-step instructions
- Start by heating the olive oil over medium heat in a large pot.
- Add the ground beef and cook until it’s perfectly browned.
- Mix in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper; let the spices cook with the beef for an additional minute.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and elbow macaroni.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes until the macaroni is tender.
- Once cooked, remove from heat and fold in the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
How to Serve One-Pot Chili Mac
Plating can elevate any dish, so don’t skip this part! Serve your Chili Mac in large bowls and top with fresh chopped cilantro or green onions for a pop of color. Pair it with a side salad, some crusty bread, or even a scoop of salsa for an extra zing. For those who like it spicy, don’t forget to set out hot sauce!
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
After enjoying this delicious meal, you’re going to want to save some for later. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the Chili Mac! It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just make sure to reheat it thoroughly when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Tips for Success
Here are some tips to take your Chili Mac to the next level:
- For extra creaminess, consider adding a splash of milk or cream when stirring in the cheeses.
- Don’t be afraid to swap out the elbow macaroni for other pasta shapes—shells, penne, or even whole grain varieties work beautifully.
- If you like a kick, a pinch of cayenne or some jalapeño can add great heat.
Creative Twists
Feeling adventurous? You can add in diced bell peppers or corn for added texture and flavor. If you want to make it smokier, a dash of smoked paprika could make a delightful difference. For a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with mushrooms and add some zucchini for heartiness.
Common Questions
What is the prep time for One-Pot Chili Mac?
The prep time is approximately 10 minutes, with a cooking time of about 20 minutes, so you can have this meal ready in about half an hour!
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute elbow macaroni with your favorite shape or even gluten-free pasta if needed.
How should I store leftovers safely?
Make sure to store the Chili Mac in an airtight container in the fridge within two hours of cooking to ensure food safety. Enjoy your easy and delicious meal!
One-Pot Chili Mac
Ingredients
Method
- Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large pot.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Mix in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper; cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, beef broth, and elbow macaroni.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes until macaroni is tender.
- Remove from heat and fold in cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
