One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is like a warm hug on a chilly night, wrapping you in cheesy goodness with every single spoonful. Picture this: tender macaroni cooked to perfection, swimming in a rich, spicy chili sauce that explodes with flavor while providing a creamy finish that makes your taste buds do a little happy dance. For more inspiration, check out this cheesy boil potatoes and meatballs recipe.
Now, let me take you back to the first time I served this dish at a game night with friends. The aroma wafted through the air as they entered, and their eyes lit up like kids on Christmas morning. That moment of surprise and joy when they took their first bite was priceless. You’ll want to whip up this delightful meal for cozy nights, casual gatherings, or even just when you need a comforting bowl of deliciousness to brighten your day.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights. The flavor profile combines savory spices with creamy cheese for an unforgettable experience. Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing on your dinner table. Versatile enough for customization, you can add your favorite proteins or veggies effortlessly.[/info_box]
The reactions from my family when I serve One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese are always priceless; it’s an instant crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Elbow Macaroni: A classic choice that holds onto the cheese sauce perfectly; don’t substitute with any other pasta.
Ground Beef or Turkey: Opt for lean meat to keep it light yet flavorful; feel free to skip if you prefer vegetarian. Pesto Chicken Lettuce Wraps Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps.
Chili Powder: Use a good quality chili powder for authentic flavor; it’s the secret weapon in this recipe.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes work great here; choose those with green chilies for an extra kick.
Cheddar Cheese: Go for sharp cheddar for intense flavor; also consider mixing in Monterey Jack for creaminess.
Onion and Garlic: Freshly chopped onion and minced garlic create an aromatic base that elevates this dish immensely.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while adding depth to the dish. Baked Ranch Chicken for Dinner.
Sour Cream: A dollop adds creaminess and tang at the end; don’t skip this step!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients and measuring them out. This way, everything will be ready when you need it during cooking.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add some olive oil. Toss in chopped onions and minced garlic until they soften and become fragrant, about 3 minutes.
Add the Meat and Spices: Stir in your ground beef or turkey along with chili powder. Cook until browned while breaking it apart with a spatula—about 5 minutes should do.
Add Pasta and Liquids: Mix in elbow macaroni along with diced tomatoes and chicken cordon bleu casserole-with-pasta/”>Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Bring everything to a boil before reducing it to simmer gently. Cover and cook until pasta is tender—around 10-12 minutes.
Stir in Cheese and Sour Cream: Remove the pot from heat, then fold in shredded cheddar cheese until melted smoothly into the mixture. Add sour cream gently for extra creaminess—trust me on this!
Serve It Up!: Spoon generous portions into bowls while still warm. Garnish with fresh herbs or extra cheese if desired. Enjoy every cheesy bite of this comforting dish!
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is a comforting classic that combines creamy cheese with hearty chili flavors. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, and its simplicity makes it a go-to for any home cook. Get ready for a delightful meal that warms the heart! [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the meat; then add onions and garlic for flavor before incorporating pasta and cheese. This sequence ensures every ingredient harmonizes beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add your favorite veggies like bell peppers or spinach. Experimenting enhances flavors while keeping the dish fresh.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat on low in a pot, adding a splash of water to maintain creaminess.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] For the best flavor, use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-packaged options. This simple change enhances texture and taste significantly. Always taste as you go; it’s the secret to a perfectly seasoned chili mac! Finally, allow it to rest before serving; this helps flavors meld beautifully. [/info_box]
I remember the first time I made One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese for my friends; they devoured it like hungry wolves, asking for seconds and thirds!
FAQ
Can I make One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese vegetarian?
Absolutely! Use lentils or beans instead of meat for a delicious vegetarian version.
How long does this dish last in the fridge?
One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese typically lasts about 3-4 days when stored properly.
Can I freeze leftover One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just ensure it’s in an airtight container to avoid freezer burn.
One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is a hearty, comforting dish that combines creamy cheese and spicy chili flavors in a single pot. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this easy-to-make meal will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings with every delicious bite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey (or substitute with lentils for a vegetarian option)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with green chilies
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Instructions
- Gather and measure all ingredients before starting.
- In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté chopped onions and minced garlic for about 3 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in ground meat (or lentils) and chili powder, cooking until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Add elbow macaroni, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth; bring to a boil then reduce to simmer. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes until the pasta is tender.
- Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted smoothly. Add sour cream for extra creaminess.
- Serve warm in bowls, garnished with fresh herbs or more cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: One-pot cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
