Hearty & Delicious: The Ultimate One-Pot Chili Mac Recipe
Chili Mac is the quintessential one-pot meal that effortlessly combines two beloved comfort food classics: savory chili and creamy macaroni and cheese. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for those evenings when you crave something deeply satisfying, incredibly easy to prepare, and universally loved by the whole family.
AUTHOR’S NOTE
Crafting the Easiest & Most Flavorful Chili Mac for Busy Weeknights!
Growing up, like many, I frequently enjoyed the boxed version of Hamburger Helper’s chili mac. While it certainly held a nostalgic charm, the flavor often fell short of my idealized memory, and the lengthy, unfamiliar ingredient list always gave me pause when serving it to my family. Driven by a desire for a fresher, homemade alternative that delivered on taste and wholesome ingredients, I embarked on a mission to recreate those cherished nostalgic flavors from scratch.
My goal was simple: to create a Chili Mac recipe that my kids would adore, featuring the same fun, cheesy blend of chili and mac and cheese, but made with real, wholesome ingredients and absolutely no artificial aftertaste. After countless rounds of testing, tweaking, and many enthusiastic taste-test nights (my family was more than happy to be the guinea pigs!), this perfect Chili Mac recipe finally came to life. It quickly became a highly requested weeknight staple in our home, a testament to its irresistible appeal and effortless preparation.
This recipe isn’t just about combining two comfort foods; it’s about simplifying dinner without sacrificing flavor or quality. It’s truly a game-changer for anyone looking for a hearty, satisfying meal that comes together quickly in a single pot, making clean-up a breeze. Say goodbye to multiple pots and pans, and hello to a delicious, no-fuss dinner!
Why This One-Pot Chili Mac Will Become Your Go-To
This isn’t just another chili mac recipe; it’s designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort. Here’s why it stands out:
- Effortless One-Pot Cooking: Everything, from browning the meat to cooking the pasta, happens in a single pot. This means less time scrubbing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.
- Speedy Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of cook time, you can have a hearty, home-cooked meal on the table in under half an hour. Perfect for those busy weeknights!
- Wholesome Ingredients: Ditch the mysterious boxed mixes. This recipe uses fresh, real ingredients that you can feel good about serving to your family.
- Unforgettable Flavor: A robust blend of spices, rich tomatoes, tender ground beef, and sharp cheddar cheese creates a depth of flavor that far surpasses any store-bought version.
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will devour this cheesy, meaty pasta dish. It’s truly a crowd-pleaser that satisfies even the pickiest eaters.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with different meats, beans, cheeses, or spice levels to suit your family’s preferences.
Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner rotation with this incredibly easy and unbelievably delicious One-Pot Chili Mac!
Key Ingredients for Your Perfect Chili Mac
Creating an exceptional one-pot Chili Mac starts with a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the layered flavors and comforting texture of this dish. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need, along with helpful tips and potential swaps:
Ground Beef (93/7 Lean)
Using a lean ground beef (like 93/7) is ideal for this recipe as it minimizes excess grease, keeping your chili mac rich without being oily. The beef forms the savory backbone of the dish, providing a hearty, satisfying element.
Swaps / Tips: For a lighter option, substitute with ground turkey or ground chicken. If you’re looking to add an extra layer of flavor and a slight kick, try using a blend of half beef and half spicy or sweet Italian sausage. Always brown your meat thoroughly to develop deep, rich flavors.
Elbow Pasta
Small, sturdy pasta shapes like elbow macaroni are classic for chili mac, perfectly capturing the cheesy sauce and chili bits. Its quick cooking time makes it ideal for a one-pot meal.
Swaps / Tips: Almost any short pasta will work wonderfully here! Consider using penne, shells, or rotini for variety. The most important factor is to choose a pasta that cooks relatively quickly, ideally within 8-10 minutes, to ensure it cooks evenly in the broth without overcooking the other ingredients. Avoid very thin pastas that might become mushy too quickly.
Chili Beans (Pinto Beans in Mild Chili Sauce)
These beans come pre-seasoned in a mild chili sauce, adding an instant boost of authentic chili flavor and a wonderful texture. They integrate seamlessly into the dish.
Swaps / Tips: While pinto beans in chili sauce are my absolute favorite for their convenience and flavor, kidney beans or black beans are excellent alternatives. If you opt for plain canned beans (not pre-seasoned), be sure to rinse them thoroughly before adding them to the pot to remove excess sodium and starchy liquid. You might also want to adjust the seasoning slightly to compensate for the lack of chili sauce in the beans.
Freshly Shredded Extra-Sharp Cheddar Cheese
Cheese is non-negotiable for that signature gooey, creamy mac and cheese element! Extra-sharp cheddar delivers a bold, tangy flavor that beautifully complements the chili spices.
Swaps / Tips: Monterey Jack or Colby Jack are fantastic alternatives for a milder, creamier melt. For the best possible melt and flavor, always shred your own cheese from a block. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can prevent them from melting as smoothly and can create a slightly gritty texture. Taking the extra minute to shred your own makes a noticeable difference!
Chicken Broth (or Stock)
The liquid base for cooking the pasta and integrating the chili flavors. Chicken broth provides a lighter, yet flavorful foundation.
Swaps / Tips: For an even richer, more robust flavor profile, especially if you’re using ground beef, beef broth is an excellent choice. If you’re preparing a vegetarian version (using plant-based meat substitutes), vegetable broth is the perfect way to keep the dish meat-free while adding essential moisture and flavor.
Aromatic Vegetables & Spices
Beyond the main ingredients, a finely diced yellow onion, minced garlic, tomato paste, cumin, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper are essential for building the complex, savory chili base. These aromatics and spices elevate the dish from simple to sensational.
Tips: Don’t rush the sautéing of the onion and browning of the meat; this step is crucial for developing deep flavors. Toasting the tomato paste and spices briefly before adding liquids intensifies their aroma and taste.
Crushed Tomatoes
The foundation of the rich, tangy chili sauce. Crushed tomatoes provide body and a vibrant tomato flavor.
Tips: Opt for higher-quality crushed tomatoes whenever possible. The better the tomatoes, the more depth and freshness they’ll bring to your chili mac.
Step-by-Step Guide: How To Make Easy One-Pot Chili Mac
Making this Chili Mac is incredibly straightforward, but following these detailed steps will ensure you achieve the perfect balance of flavor and texture every time. Remember, the beauty of a one-pot meal is its simplicity and efficiency!
Cook the Aromatic Base:
Begin by heating a large, nonstick pot or Dutch oven over high heat. Add the olive oil, allowing it to shimmer slightly. Introduce the finely diced yellow onion and sauté for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal here is to soften the onion and allow its natural sweetness to emerge. Once softened, push the onion to the edges of the pan, creating a clear space in the center for your ground beef.
Brown the Ground Beef:
Place the ground beef directly into the center of the hot pan. Let it sear undisturbed for about 1 minute to develop a flavorful crust. Then, use a wooden spoon or a sturdy spatula to break up the beef into small crumbles. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the beef is mostly browned. If there’s an excessive amount of grease, carefully drain it at this point, but lean ground beef typically won’t require this step.
Season and Aromatize:
Once the beef is mostly browned, stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste. Cook for another minute, pressing the tomato paste against the bottom of the pot to toast it slightly, which deepens its flavor. Now, add all your dried spices: cumin, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir these vigorously into the beef and onion mixture. Continue cooking for 1-2 minutes until the spices become wonderfully fragrant, truly infusing their aroma into the meat. This step is crucial for building a rich, authentic chili flavor.
Simmer with Pasta and Beans:
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Add the elbow pasta and the can of chili beans (undrained). Give everything a good stir to ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid and all ingredients are well combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat. Once simmering, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it cook for 9-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom. Cook until the pasta is al dente – meaning it’s tender but still has a slight bite. The mixture will still be slightly saucy at this point, but it will thicken as it rests.
Stir in the Cheese:
Remove the pot from the heat. This is an important step to prevent overcooking the pasta and to ensure the cheese melts perfectly. Stir in 1 cup of the freshly shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese until it’s fully melted and creates a creamy, luscious sauce. Taste the chili mac and adjust seasonings with additional salt or pepper if needed. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese evenly over the top of the dish. Cover the pot again and let it sit for just 2-3 minutes; the residual heat will melt the cheese beautifully into a gooey layer.
Serve and Enjoy:
Uncover the pot, and behold your magnificent One-Pot Chili Mac! Now is the time to add your favorite optional toppings to truly personalize each serving. Scoop generously into bowls and serve immediately. This dish is best enjoyed fresh to appreciate its perfect texture and creamy consistency!
Perfect Pairings: What To Serve With Your Chili Mac
Chili Mac is a hearty and complete meal on its own, but a thoughtful side dish can elevate the experience and provide a wonderful contrast in flavors and textures. Here are some fantastic suggestions to complement your delicious one-pot creation:
Simple Garden Salad:
A crisp, light garden salad dressed with a vinaigrette is the perfect counterpoint to the richness of Chili Mac. It offers a refreshing crunch and a burst of freshness that helps balance the meal, making it feel less heavy and more complete. Think mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light lemon-herb dressing.
Toasty Garlic Bread:
You can never go wrong with garlic bread! Its buttery, garlicky flavor and soft interior with crispy edges make it ideal for soaking up any extra chili mac sauce. It adds another layer of comfort and is always a family favorite.
Fluffy Cornbread:
A classic companion to chili, cornbread brings a slightly sweet, crumbly texture that works beautifully with Chili Mac. Whether it’s a savory buttermilk cornbread or a slightly sweeter version, it’s perfect for scooping up bites or simply enjoying alongside.
Crunchy Tortilla Chips:
For an added textural contrast and a fun, casual touch, serve a bowl of crispy tortilla chips. They’re excellent for scooping up the chili mac like a dip, or simply enjoying as a crunchy side. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream on top of your chili mac with the chips can truly enhance the experience.
Steamed Green Beans or Broccoli:
If you’re looking to add more greens and a healthy component, simple steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli make a great choice. Their mild flavor won’t compete with the chili mac, and they add essential nutrients and fiber.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Chili Mac is undoubtedly best enjoyed fresh, straight from the pot, when the pasta is perfectly al dente and the sauce is at its creamiest peak. As it sits, especially overnight, the pasta tends to absorb more of the liquid, which can lead to a softer, sometimes mushy texture. However, leftovers are still delicious and shouldn’t go to waste!
To Store: Allow any leftover Chili Mac to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
To Reheat: For best results, reheat Chili Mac gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring frequently. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or milk (1/4 to 1/2 cup) to rehydrate the sauce and bring it back to a creamy consistency, as the pasta will have absorbed a lot of the liquid. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring halfway through and adding a small amount of liquid if needed.
Discover More Easy One-Pot Recipes:
If you loved the simplicity and deliciousness of this One-Pot Chili Mac, you’re in for a treat! Explore more of our favorite one-pot wonders that simplify mealtime without compromising on flavor. Less cleanup, more enjoyment!
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Print Recipe
Chili Mac Recipe
By
Chelsea Lords
Chili mac blends two classic comfort dishes—chili and mac and cheese—into one tasty, easy-to-make meal!
Equipment
- Large pot (6-quart)
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup finely diced yellow onion (approx. 1 onion)
- 1 pound ground beef (93/7 lean recommended)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1-1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes (see Note 1)
- 2-1/2 cups chicken broth (or stock)
- 2 cups elbow pasta
- 1 can (16-ounces) chili beans
- 2 cups freshly shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese
- Optional toppings (see Note 2)
Instructions
Sauté Aromatics: Heat a large nonstick pot over high heat. Add the olive oil and onion, sautéing for 2 minutes while stirring occasionally until softened. Push the onion to the edges of the pan.
Brown Beef: Add the ground beef to the center of the pan. Let it sear for 1 minute, then use a wooden spoon to break it up and crumble. Cook until mostly browned.
Season & Develop Flavor: Stir in the minced garlic, tomato paste, cumin, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and the spices are fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Simmer Pasta & Beans: Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, elbow pasta, and chili beans. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Lower the heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 9-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente. The mixture will still be slightly saucy but will thicken upon resting (see Note 3).
Melt the Cheese: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese until fully melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese on top, cover, and let sit for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to melt into a gooey layer.
Serve: Remove the lid, add your favorite optional toppings (like fresh cilantro, sour cream, or diced avocado), and serve your delicious One-Pot Chili Mac immediately!
Recipe Notes
Note 1: Tomato Quality Matters: Using higher-quality crushed tomatoes (like San Marzano style) will significantly enhance the overall flavor and richness of your Chili Mac. The better the tomatoes, the more vibrant your sauce will be.
Note 2: Creative Toppings: Elevate your Chili Mac with a variety of toppings! Freshly chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt provides a creamy tang, and diced avocado offers a rich, smooth contrast. Other great options include sliced green onions, a sprinkle of extra shredded cheese, or a dash of hot sauce for those who like a little extra heat.
Note 3: Perfectly Cooked Pasta: It’s crucial to remove the pot from the heat as soon as the pasta reaches the al dente stage. Pasta continues to absorb liquid and cook even after being removed from the heat (this is called carryover cooking). Slightly undercooking it will ensure it doesn’t become mushy. Overcooked pasta cannot be salvaged, so err on the side of caution!
Nutrition Information (Approximate)
Serving: 1 serving | Calories: 523 kcal | Carbohydrates: 42.1g | Protein: 37.4g | Fat: 23.6g | Cholesterol: 99mg | Sodium: 1477.4mg | Fiber: 5.1g | Sugar: 9.6g
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation. Actual values may vary based on ingredients and preparation methods.
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