Chili Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, combining the rich creaminess of cheese with a hearty chili that warms your soul. Imagine a steaming bowl filled with tender pasta, zesty ground beef, and gooey melted cheese, all mingling together in an aromatic embrace that makes you want to dive right in. hearty pasta dishes.
This dish holds a special place in my heart. I vividly remember the first time I made it for my friends during a game night. The laughter echoed through the kitchen as they devoured every last bite, proving that this One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is not just food; it’s a celebration of good times and great company. cozy comfort food.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is irresistibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
- The flavors are rich and comforting, appealing to both kids and adults alike
- Its vibrant colors will brighten any dinner table, while its versatility allows for endless ingredient variations
- Perfect for cozy family nights or casual gatherings with friends
Sharing this dish with my family always brings out smiles and happy bellies.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Elbow Macaroni: Use small elbow pasta for the perfect balance of sauce to noodle ratio.
- Ground Beef or Turkey: Choose lean meat for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
- Canned Diced Tomatoes: Opt for fire-roasted tomatoes to add an extra layer of smokiness.
- Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for a bold flavor that melts beautifully into the dish.
- Chili Powder: A generous sprinkle brings warmth and depth; adjust according to your spice preference.
- Onion and Garlic: Freshly chopped onion and minced garlic provide an aromatic base full of flavor.
- Beef Broth: A splash enhances the savory profile; low-sodium options are ideal for better control over saltiness.
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Stir in at the end for a creamy finish that adds tanginess.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Sautéing the Aromatics: Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add some olive oil and toss in chopped onion and minced garlic until they become fragrant and translucent.
Browning the Meat: Introduce your ground beef or turkey into the pot, breaking it apart as it cooks. Sauté until browned, around 5-7 minutes, ensuring it’s fully cooked.
Add the Rest of the Ingredients: Stir in canned diced tomatoes, elbow macaroni, chili powder, beef broth, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally. For more inspiration, check out this Green Chile Macaroni Delight recipe.
Cooking Time!: Cover the pot and let it cook on low heat for about 15 minutes until the pasta is tender. Keep an eye on it so nothing sticks!
Stirring in Cheese & Sour Cream: Once cooked, remove from heat and fold in shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream. Watch as everything turns creamy and deliciously cheesy.
Time to Serve!: Dish out your One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese into bowls, garnishing with fresh herbs or extra cheese if desired. chili con carne variations Enjoy this comforting delight with friends or family!
This recipe not only fills bellies but also creates lasting memories around the dinner table!
You Must Know
- One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is a comforting dish that combines creamy cheese with zesty chili flavors
- This recipe simplifies dinner, as everything cooks together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze
- The aroma of melting cheese and spices is simply irresistible!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground meat first, then add the pasta and liquid to let everything cook together beautifully. pasta with delicious flavor This method ensures your flavors meld perfectly while keeping the pasta al dente.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese with different cheeses or veggies. You can also swap beef for turkey or add some beans for extra protein! For more inspiration, check out this Cheesy Beef Wraps recipe.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk if it’s too thick.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality cheese for better melting and flavor; avoid low-fat options
- Cook pasta just until al dente, as it will continue cooking later
- Spice it up with jalapeños or hot sauce for a kick!
There’s nothing like serving this dish at family gatherings; hearing my kids rave about it always puts a smile on my face. They devour it faster than I can say “seconds!”
FAQ
Can I use gluten-free pasta in One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese?
Yes, gluten-free pasta works well; just adjust cooking times as needed for best texture.
What type of cheese is best for this dish?
Cheddar cheese is classic, but you can mix in mozzarella or pepper jack for fun variations.
How do I make this vegetarian-friendly?
Substitute the meat with black beans or lentils, and load up on veggies for added flavor!
One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Chili Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort dish that combines creamy cheese and zesty chili for a delightful meal. This one-pot recipe brings together tender elbow macaroni, flavorful ground beef, and gooey cheddar cheese, creating a cozy experience perfect for family dinners or game nights. With minimal prep and cleanup, you can enjoy a hearty bowl of this delicious dish in no time.
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium)
- ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add ground beef to the pot; cook until browned (about 5-7 minutes), breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, elbow macaroni, chili powder, beef broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cover and cook on low heat for about 15 minutes until pasta is tender.
- Remove from heat and mix in shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream until creamy.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs or extra cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: One Pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 240g)
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
