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One Pot Chili Mac

A spoonful of cheesy one pot chili mac with elbow macaroni, ground beef, and kidney beans.

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A quick and easy one-pot chili mac recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner. This skillet meal combines savory chili with tender macaroni and cheese.

Ingredients

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  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
  2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
  4. Add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and black pepper.
  5. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  6. Stir in the elbow macaroni.
  7. Cover the skillet and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  8. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
  9. Serve hot.

Notes

  • For a spicier chili mac, add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
  • If the mixture becomes too thick, you can add a little more beef broth or water.
  • To prevent mushy pasta, ensure you stir occasionally and do not overcook.
  • This recipe is a great base; feel free to add other vegetables like corn or bell peppers.

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