Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that combines the bold flavors of chili with the creamy richness of mac and cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is hearty, satisfying, and made entirely in one pot—meaning minimal cleanup. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings together pasta, beef, beans, and cheese in a deliciously cozy meal.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beefoniongarlicchili powdercuminpaprikasaltblack peppertomato pastediced tomatoeskidney beansbeef brothelbow macaronicheddar cheese (shredded)mozzarella cheese (shredded)

directions

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease if needed.

Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant.

Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Mix in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor.

Pour in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth. Stir to combine.

Add the elbow macaroni and bring the mixture to a boil.

Reduce heat to a simmer and cook, uncovered, for about 10-12 minutes or until pasta is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.

Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella until melted and creamy.

Let sit for a couple of minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Add jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat.

Stir in corn or bell peppers for added texture and flavor.

Top with sour cream, green onions, or crushed tortilla chips for garnish.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the texture.Freezing is not recommended as the pasta may become mushy.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, but cooking times may vary. Short shapes like penne or shells work well.

Is this dish spicy?

It has mild heat, but you can adjust the spice level to your liking.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the meat with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth.

What cheeses can I use?

Cheddar and mozzarella are great, but feel free to try pepper jack or Monterey Jack.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure your pot is large enough to handle the volume.

Do I need to drain the beans?

Yes, rinse and drain the beans before adding them to the pot.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Absolutely! It’s cheesy, mild, and filling—perfect for kids.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, chopped spinach, zucchini, or peas are great additions.

Why is my pasta undercooked?

Ensure there’s enough liquid and allow enough simmering time with the lid off.

How do I keep the cheese from clumping?

Stir in cheese slowly off the heat to ensure smooth melting.

Conclusion

One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese delivers everything you want in a comfort dish—hearty, cheesy, and packed with flavor. It’s easy to make, requires only one pot, and is loved by kids and adults alike. Whether you’re feeding a family or just craving something warm and satisfying, this recipe is a guaranteed hit.