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One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese

Comforting One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese Close-up

This One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese combines creamy, cheesy pasta with a hearty, flavorful chili in an easy-to-make, comforting dish perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 cup elbow macaroni
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
  2. Add diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, and elbow macaroni. Stir to combine.
  5. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes until pasta is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. Remove pot from heat. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream until melted and creamy.
  7. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve warm.

Notes

For extra flavor, top with sliced jalapeños, chopped green onions, or a dollop of guacamole. This dish also freezes well for meal prep.