Description
One Pot Chili Mac is the ultimate comfort food that combines the bold flavors of beef chili, creamy cheese, and tender macaroni—all made in a single pot! This hearty dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings with friends and family. With its rich taste and satisfying texture, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a go-to favorite. You can whip it up in under an hour, making cleanup easy while providing plenty of leftovers to savor later. Customize your chili mac with various toppings and spices to suit your palate. Enjoy a delightful meal that warms the heart and tummy!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb 93% lean ground beef
- 1 ½ cups chopped yellow onion
- 1 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 4 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 8 oz dry elbow macaroni
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Sauté onion and red bell pepper for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Add ground beef; sear for 3 minutes, breaking it up until nearly cooked through.
- Stir in garlic, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika; cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, elbow macaroni, and kidney beans; season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a simmer; reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for about 12–15 minutes until pasta is tender.
- Stir in half-and-half and shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve warm with desired toppings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 75mg