Easy One-Pot Chili Mac and Cheese
Hearty, cheesy chili mac made in one pot for an easy weeknight win. Bold spices, tender pasta, and melty cheddar in every bite.
Pin This Recipe For Later!
Share The Yum On Facebook
Print
Servings:
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef prefer 85–90% lean
- 1 cup diced yellow onion
- 0.75 cup diced red bell pepper
- 2.5 tsp minced garlic
- 2.5 tbsp chili powder
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 0.75 tsp smoked paprika
- 0.75 tsp dried oregano
- 1.25 tsp kosher salt plus more to taste
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 14.5 oz diced tomatoes with juices fire-roasted if possible
- 8 oz tomato sauce
- 3.5 cup beef broth
- 12 oz elbow macaroni dry
- 15 oz kidney beans drained and rinsed
- 2 cup shredded sharp cheddar
- 0.33 cup sour cream for extra creaminess
- 0.25 cup sliced green onions for serving
- 1 tsp hot sauce optional
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Brown the beef, breaking it up, 4–5 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in onion and bell pepper. Cook until softened, 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
- Season with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toast the spices for 30 seconds.
- Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Scrape the bottom of the pot to release browned bits.
- Add macaroni and kidney beans. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a lively simmer. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, 10–12 minutes, until pasta is al dente.
- Uncover and simmer 1–2 minutes to thicken if needed. Adjust salt to taste.
- Turn off heat. Fold in cheddar and sour cream until melted and creamy.
- Let rest 2 minutes. Serve topped with green onions and a dash of hot sauce, if you like.
Notes
Variation: Swap half the cheddar for pepper jack for extra heat, or stir in a handful of corn during the last 5 minutes. Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container up to 4 days; reheat gently with a splash of broth or milk.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Easy One-Pot Chili Mac and Cheese flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.