Description
One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is the ultimate weeknight meal that brings together the hearty goodness of chili and the creamy comfort of macaroni and cheese—all in just one pot! This dish is perfect for families or gatherings, taking only 25 minutes from start to finish. With its rich flavors from spices, ground beef, and melted cheese, it’s sure to satisfy even the hungriest appetites. Plus, you can easily tweak the spice level to fit your taste preferences, making it a versatile addition to your dinner rotation. Enjoy a delicious, stress-free cooking experience with minimal cleanup!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 red capsicum / bell pepper, chopped
- 500g / 1 lb ground beef (lean recommended)
- 800g / 28 oz crushed canned tomato
- 420g / 14 oz can red kidney beans, drained
- 2 1/2 cups (625 ml) beef broth (chicken broth also okay)
- 250g / 8 oz elbow macaroni pasta, uncooked
- 2 cups (200g) shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or tasty cheese)
- 1/4 cup coriander / cilantro, finely chopped (for garnish)
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (or pure chili powder)
- 2 tsp paprika powder
- 2 tsp cumin powder
- 1 1/2 tsp onion powder (can substitute garlic powder)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over high heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion; cook until fragrant. Add red bell pepper and cook until softened.
- Stir in ground beef; cook until browned.
- Add crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, beef broth, elbow macaroni, and spices. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
- Cover and cook for about 12 minutes or until pasta is al dente.
- Remove from heat; stir in half of the shredded cheese until melted. Top with remaining cheese, cover for 2 minutes to melt.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One Pot Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg