Lunch & Dinner

One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese – Hearty Food Ideas

Name: One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese – Hearty Food Ideas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cheese 200 g); 1 red bell pepper; 250 g elbow macaroni; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 500 g lean ground beef; 420 g can red kidney beans; 2 garlic cloves; 2 1/2 cups beef broth; 800 g crushed canned tomatoes; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 teaspoons paprika powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or chili powder; 2 teaspoons cumin powder; 1 1/4 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Glennis Annis August 6, 2025

Servings: 6 Total Time: 25 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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When I think about the perfect side dishes to accompany my one pot chili mac and cheese, a few classic options come to mind. A simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette balances the richness of the mac and cheese beautifully. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and sliced cucumbers for a refreshing touch.

For those who crave a bit of crunch, garlic bread is a hit. I mean, who doesn’t love buttery, toasted bread? You could even sprinkle some herbs or cheese on top for extra flavor. If you want to venture into the realm of appetizers, nachos are a fun choice. Load up corn chips with jalapeños, sour cream, and guacamole, and you’ve got yourself a fiesta.

Now, let’s dive into the main attraction: my one pot chili mac and cheese. This dish is much more than just comfort food; it’s a culinary hug wrapped in layers of flavors. With a melty, cheesy texture and a spicy kick, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This one pot chili mac and cheese recipe brings all the warm feels, minus the fuss of multiple dishes to wash. I love recipes that maximize flavor while minimizing effort. You can prepare this hearty dish in just one pot, making both cleanup and cooking a breeze.

Imagine a chilly evening, the aroma of spices wafting through your kitchen. This recipe is not only comforting, but it also packs a punch. With spices and ground beef mingling together, you can enjoy a filling meal that satisfies both taste buds and hunger.

My Ingredients Journey

As I gathered the ingredients, I felt excited to bring this dish to life.

Cheddar Cheese: I went with a combination of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack. There’s just something about that gooey cheese experience that can lift spirits.
Bell Pepper: The vibrant red bell pepper adds a sweet touch. Since I chop it up small, it melts beautifully into the dish.
Elbow Macaroni: This is the classic choice and holds onto the creamy cheese well.
Ground Beef: I opted for lean ground beef, making this dish hearty without feeling heavy.
Canned Tomatoes: The crushed tomatoes not only provide a base for flavor but also contribute to the sauciness everyone loves.
Spices: These are my secret weapon. The combination of cumin, cayenne, and paprika creates irresistible warmth.

Let’s not get ahead of ourselves, though. Here’s the complete list of ingredients you’ll need:

Ingredients List

Main Ingredients:

2 cups (200g) shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your favorites)
1 red bell pepper, chopped
250g (8 oz) elbow macaroni, uncooked
1 tablespoon olive oil
500g (1 lb) lean ground beef (or your choice of protein)
420g (14 oz) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 ½ cups (625 ml) beef broth (chicken broth works too)
1 onion, finely chopped
800g (28 oz) crushed canned tomatoes
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Spices (Homemade Chili Powder):

¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 teaspoons paprika powder
1 ½ teaspoons onion powder (sub garlic powder if preferred)
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or chili powder (adjust to taste)
2 teaspoons cumin powder
1 ¼ teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon dried oregano

How to Make One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese

Now that you have the ingredients, let’s get cooking! Follow these straightforward steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time.

Step 1: Sauté the Beef and Veggies

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring until they are fragrant and soft, about two to three minutes. Then, toss in the ground beef. I usually break it up with a spatula and cook it until it is brown, which takes about five minutes.

Step 2: Add the Spices and Peppers

Once the beef is browned, it’s time to kick things up a notch. Sprinkle in the homemade chili powder spices: cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper, salt, onion powder, and dried oregano. Mix well. Add the chopped bell pepper and continue sautéing for another 3 minutes until the pepper softens.

Step 3: Pour in the Tomatoes and Broth

Next, add the crushed tomatoes and beef broth into the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil. Don’t be shy. Stir it up, ensuring that all the flavors blend harmoniously.

Step 4: Stir in the Pasta

Once it reaches a boil, it’s time to add that macaroni. Stir it in and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 8-10 minutes until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Give it a stir every few minutes to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Add the Beans and Cheese

After the pasta is cooked, gently fold in the drained kidney beans. Then, let’s get cheesy! Add the shredded cheese, a bit at a time. Stir until it is completely melted and creamy.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Remove the pot from the heat and sprinkle fresh cilantro on top. Serve this comforting chili mac and cheese hot! It’s easy to dish out the portions, and believe me, everyone will be coming back for seconds.

Recipe Notes

Let’s take a deeper look into the ingredients for a bit more context:

Cheese: I love using a blend of cheeses for depth of flavor. They melt differently and provide that gooeyness that everyone loves.
Ground Beef: Leaner beef allows for a healthier option, but you could easily swap it for turkey, chicken, or a meat substitute for a plant-based version.
Bell Pepper: The sweetness balances nicely with the spicy components. You could use yellow or green peppers, but I find red to be the most flavorful.
Canned Tomatoes: A base of crushed tomatoes adds acidity and depth. You can use diced tomatoes if you prefer chunks in your dish.
Kidney Beans: Adding beans increases the protein and fiber content, making the meal more satisfying.

Recipe Variations

Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations to make this dish your own:

Vegetarian Option: Use lentils or mushrooms instead of beef for a robust flavor.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with gouda, pepper jack, or mozzarella for unique taste profiles.
Spice It Up: Add jalapeños or increase the cayenne if you like it hot.
Vegetable Boost: Toss in some corn, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrients.
Swap Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta or whole wheat macaroni for a healthier twist.
Make it Creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese just before serving for an extra creamy texture.

Conclusion

My one pot chili mac and cheese isn’t just food; it’s a comforting dish to share with family or friends, evoking warm memories and laughter around the table. I hope you give this recipe a try. It’s easy, versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser. Cooking shouldn’t be a chore; it should be an enjoyable experience. So grab your ingredients, get cozy in your kitchen, and let’s make something delicious together!

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Print Recipe

One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese – Hearty Food Ideas

Author: Glennis Annis Cuisine: American Courses: Lunch & Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 15 mins Total Time 25 mins

Servings: 6 Calories: 768 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

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