Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of One Pot Chili Mac, a delightful fusion of hearty beef chili and creamy macaroni. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family. With just one pot required, cleanup is effortless, allowing you to enjoy more time with loved ones. The rich blend of spices, combined with gooey cheddar cheese, creates a satisfying meal that not only warms your soul but also leaves plenty for leftovers. Customize each serving with your favorite toppings for an added touch of flavor!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 ½ cups chopped yellow onion
- 1 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1 lb 93% lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
- 4 teaspoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can low-sodium chicken broth, plus ½ cup more to thin if needed
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies (mild or hot, based on preference)
- 8 oz dry elbow macaroni (2 cups)
- 1 (15 oz) can dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup half and half (or ⅓ cup heavy cream)
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus more for serving if desired
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Add the onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Push the mixture to one side of the pot.
- Add the ground beef in chunks to the cleared space. Let it sear for about 3 minutes. Break up the beef and mix with the onion and peppers. Cook until nearly cooked through, about 2 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Stir for 1 minute to toast the spices.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and diced green chilies. Stir in macaroni and kidney beans. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally until pasta is tender, about 12–15 minutes.
- Remove from heat. Stir in half and half and shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Add more chicken broth if you prefer a thinner consistency.
- Serve with your favorite toppings like sliced green onions, sour cream, diced tomatoes, or extra cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg