Description
Looking for the perfect quick dinner idea that satisfies both comfort food cravings and weeknight convenience? This One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese brings the bold flavors of chili together with creamy, cheesy pasta in a single pot. It’s hearty, satisfying, and ready in under 40 minutes — a must-try for fans of easy recipes, quick meals, and classic comfort food. Packed with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and cheddar, it’s your answer to “What’s for dinner?” whether you’re meal prepping or feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
2 cups beef broth
2 cups elbow macaroni (or cavatappi)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or parsley (optional)
Instructions
1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Add diced onions and garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with juices), and kidney beans. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in beef broth and pasta. Stir well. Cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente.
6. Remove from heat. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
7. Garnish with cilantro or parsley if desired and serve hot.
Notes
For a spicy version, add a chopped jalapeño or use pepper jack cheese.
This dish can be made ahead and frozen in portions for easy reheating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One Pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: quick dinner, easy pasta, comfort food, cheesy chili, one pot meal