One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese: 7 Heavenly Comfort Bites

octobre 15, 2025

By:

Julia marin

There’s just something magical about one pot meals, right? They bring comfort and warmth, especially on those chilly nights when you just want to cozy up with something hearty. My go-to has to be this one pot chili mac and cheese. I remember the first time I made it; the smell of the beef and spices wafting through the kitchen had everyone gathering around, eager for a taste. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be hooked on the creamy, cheesy goodness mixed with zesty chili flavors. Let’s dive in, shall we?

one pot chili mac and cheese - detail 1

Ingredients List

Gather these simple, yet oh-so-delicious ingredients to make your one pot chili mac and cheese. Trust me, you’ll love how everything comes together in just one pot!

1 pound elbow macaroni
1 pound ground beef
1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained
1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
1 packet chili seasoning mix
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
4 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to get creative with these ingredients! You can add more beans or even some veggies if you like. Just remember, the cheese is what makes it all come together beautifully, so don’t skimp on that cheesy goodness!

How to Prepare One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese Instructions

Now, let’s get to the good stuff—cooking your one pot chili mac and cheese! I promise, it’s super straightforward and totally rewarding. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a cozy meal on the table in no time!

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

First things first, heat that tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want it nice and hot but not smoking, so keep an eye on it!
Next, add in the pound of ground beef. Cook it until it’s beautifully browned—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break it up as it cooks so it gets nice and crumbly.
Once your beef is browned, it’s time to stir in the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili seasoning mix, and beef broth. This is where the magic happens! Give it a good stir to combine everything.
Now, bring your mixture to a boil. I know the anticipation is killing you, but hang tight! Once it’s bubbling, toss in the elbow macaroni.
Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. You’ll want to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The macaroni should be tender and the flavors will meld perfectly. If it looks a bit thick, don’t worry! That’s just the cheese’s way of saying it’s ready to party.
Finally, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into that creamy goodness. This is my favorite part! Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve it hot and enjoy every cheesy bite!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk numbers! While the joy of eating this one pot chili mac and cheese is immeasurable, knowing the nutritional content can help you enjoy it even more. Here’s an estimated breakdown based on the ingredients we’re using:

Calories: 600 per serving
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 60g
Fiber: 8g
Sugar: 6g
Protein: 30g

Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on specific brands and ingredients you choose. But hey, a little indulgence never hurt anyone, right? Enjoy this hearty dish without a worry in the world!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Honestly, this one pot chili mac and cheese checks all the boxes for a perfect meal, and I can’t wait for you to try it! Here’s why you’re going to absolutely adore this dish:

Quick preparation—ready in just 30 minutes!
Hearty and satisfying, it’s like a warm hug in a bowl.
Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in one pot.
Rich, cheesy flavors combined with zesty chili spice.
Customizable to your taste—add more veggies or beans as you please!
Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Leftovers are just as delicious, making it a great meal prep option.

Trust me, once you take that first creamy, cheesy bite, you’ll be in love! It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone together, and I can already picture you sharing it with friends and family. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your one pot chili mac and cheese turns out absolutely perfect! Here are my top tips to help you nail this recipe:

Don’t rush the browning: Take your time browning the ground beef. This step adds a ton of flavor, so let it get nice and golden!
Adjust the spice: If you like it spicy, feel free to add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when you stir in the chili seasoning mix. Wow, what a kick!
Try different proteins: Ground turkey or chicken works great if you want a leaner option. You could even use a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian version!
Mix up the cheese: While cheddar is a classic, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for an extra flavor boost. A blend of cheeses can take it to the next level!
Cook until just tender: Keep an eye on the macaroni while it simmers. You want it tender but not mushy; it’ll continue to cook slightly after you add the cheese.
Garnish it up: Top your chili mac with fresh cilantro, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream for that extra touch. It adds freshness and looks beautiful!
Save some cheese for topping: If you’re feeling indulgent, sprinkle a little extra cheese on top before serving. Pop it under the broiler for a minute to get it bubbly and golden!
Store wisely: If you have leftovers (which I doubt will happen!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It reheats wonderfully on the stovetop, just add a splash of broth to loosen it up.

With these tips, you’ll be a one pot chili mac and cheese master in no time. Happy cooking, and enjoy every cheesy bite!

Variations

One of the best things about this one pot chili mac and cheese is how easy it is to customize! You can really make it your own with just a few tweaks. Here are some fun variations to get your creative juices flowing:

Spice it up: If you’re a fan of heat, try adding some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper along with your chili seasoning. You could even throw in some crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
Different cheeses: While cheddar is a classic choice, why not mix it up? Try using a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack and pepper jack for a creamy and slightly spicy twist. Or go for a sharp gouda for a deeper flavor!
Veggie-packed: Sneak in some veggies to boost the nutrition! Chopped bell peppers, corn, or even some spinach can add color and flavor. Just toss them in when you stir in the beans and tomatoes for a delightful crunch!
Southwestern flair: Add some taco seasoning in place of the chili seasoning for a different flavor profile. You can also throw in black beans instead of kidney beans for a nice change!
Protein alternatives: Experiment with different proteins! Use ground turkey, chicken, or even crumbled tofu for a vegetarian option. You could also add in some cooked sausage for a heartier dish.
Herb it up: Fresh herbs can really elevate your dish! Add chopped cilantro or parsley right before serving for a burst of freshness. A squeeze of lime juice can also brighten up the flavors beautifully!
Macroni swap: If you’re feeling adventurous, try different pasta shapes! Penne or shells work wonderfully and add a fun twist to your chili mac experience.

With these variations, you can keep your one pot chili mac and cheese exciting every time you make it. So go ahead, mix and match, and make it your own—happy cooking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve got some delicious one pot chili mac and cheese leftovers? Lucky you! Storing and reheating this dish is super simple, and I’ve got all the tips to keep it tasting just as good as the first time around.

First, make sure to let the chili mac cool down a bit before storing it. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to seal it tightly to lock in all that cheesy goodness!

When it comes to reheating, I recommend using the stovetop for the best results. Just add the leftover chili mac to a pot over medium heat, and stir it occasionally. If it looks a bit thick, don’t worry! Just add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up. Keep stirring until it’s heated through and creamy again.

If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave. Just pop it in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely (this prevents splatters!), and heat in short bursts, stirring in between until it’s piping hot. It’s that easy!

And there you have it! Enjoy those leftovers without losing any of that wonderful flavor and texture. Happy reheating!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve whipped up this delicious one pot chili mac and cheese, let’s talk about what to pair it with for a complete meal! Trust me, it’s all about finding those perfect accompaniments to really elevate your dining experience. Here are some of my favorite ideas:

Fresh Green Salad: A crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a wonderful contrast to the rich, cheesy flavors of your chili mac. Toss in some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a sprinkle of feta for an extra zing!
Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with warm, buttery garlic bread! It’s perfect for soaking up all that cheesy goodness and adds a delightful crunch to your meal.
Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw or a zesty vinegar-based slaw provides a refreshing crunch that balances the hearty dish nicely. Plus, it’s super easy to make ahead of time!
Cornbread: Serve up some warm cornbread on the side for that classic comfort food combo. The slight sweetness of cornbread pairs beautifully with the savory chili flavors.
Roasted Vegetables: For a healthy touch, add some roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli. They bring color and a lovely texture to your plate!
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Don’t forget to have a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on hand for serving. It adds creaminess and a nice tang that complements the chili mac perfectly.
Pickled Jalapeños: If you like a little heat, serve some pickled jalapeños on the side for an extra kick. They add a vibrant flavor and a nice crunch!

Mix and match these sides based on your mood and what you have on hand. Each pairing brings something special to the table, making your one pot chili mac and cheese a truly satisfying meal. Enjoy every bite!

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Sur moi

Bonjour, je m'appelle Julia, je suis le cœur de Vihaad Recettes et une passionnée de bonne cuisine. Mon amour pour la cuisine a commencé dans mon enfance, inspirée par les délicieux repas de ma grand-mère. Aujourd'hui, je partage des recettes savoureuses qui rassemblent les gens à travers le plaisir de manger ensemble.