This One Pot Chili Mac is a fun and hearty dish that combines pasta with zesty chili flavors. It’s all cooked in one pot, making cleanup a breeze!
I love how quick it is to whip up! Just toss everything in and let it simmer—perfect for busy nights when you still want something tasty and comforting!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I use 80/20 beef for the best flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well, too. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or crumbled tempeh.
Onion and Garlic: These are essential for flavor. Red or white onions can substitute for yellow onions. If you’re short on fresh garlic, garlic powder does the trick—just use about 1/4 teaspoon for every clove.
Diced Tomatoes: Choose fire-roasted diced tomatoes for extra flavor. If fresh tomatoes are in season, use about 2 cups of chopped ones instead. Canned tomatoes are convenient and flavorful!
Elbow Macaroni: Elbow macaroni is classic here, but you can also use any short pasta like penne or rigatoni. For gluten-free diets, there are great gluten-free pasta options available.
Kidney Beans: They add protein and bulk. You can swap them out for black beans or pinto beans if you prefer. If you’re skipping beans, increase the macaroni or add more veggies for texture.
Why is Cooking the Pasta in the Same Pot So Important?
Cooking the pasta directly in the pot with the chili mixture not only saves time but also allows the pasta to absorb all those rich flavors. Here’s how to get it right:
- Once the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat and cover it. This keeps the steam in and cooks the pasta evenly.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking at the bottom. If you notice it’s getting too thick, add a little more broth or water.
- Test the pasta a couple of minutes before the suggested cooking time to ensure it’s perfectly al dente, as it will continue to cook even after you turn off the heat.
With these tips, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying One Pot Chili Mac every time!
One Pot Chili Mac
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chili Mac:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth (or water)
- 1 cup elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Topping:
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt for garnish (optional)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This One Pot Chili Mac takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook. In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it out before moving on to the next step.
2. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
Next, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and becomes translucent. This adds a wonderful flavor base to your chili mac.
3. Add Spices:
Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook the spices for about 1 minute. This will help to release their flavors and aroma.
4. Combine the Tomato Ingredients:
Now add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth (or water) into the pot. Stir everything together until well mixed.
5. Add Macaroni and Beans:
Pour the uncooked elbow macaroni into the pot, along with the kidney beans if you’re using them. Make sure the macaroni is fully submerged in the liquid.
6. Bring to a Boil:
Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the macaroni doesn’t stick and cooks evenly.
7. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
After the macaroni is cooked through, taste the chili mac. Adjust any seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or spices to your liking.
8. Stir in Cheese (if using):
If you decided to add cheese, stir in the shredded cheddar until melted. This will give your chili mac a creamy, delicious finish!
9. Serve and Garnish:
Serve your One Pot Chili Mac hot! Top each bowl with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, and sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.
Enjoy your comforting and hearty One Pot Chili Mac! It’s sure to become a family favorite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative to beef. Just make sure to cook it until it’s fully browned, as turkey might need a bit more care to avoid drying out.
What If I Don’t Have Beef Broth?
No worries! You can use water instead; just add a pinch more salt to enhance the flavor. Vegetable broth is also an excellent choice for a lighter taste.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the ground beef with lentils, crumbled tempeh, or plant-based meat alternatives. You can also add more beans and veggies for a hearty texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems too thick.
