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One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese

This hearty One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese combines creamy, cheesy pasta with bold chili flavors for a comforting, easy meal perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup elbow macaroni
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
  2. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
  3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add kidney beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, beef broth, and elbow macaroni. Stir to combine.
  5. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 12-15 minutes until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. Remove pot from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
  7. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired and serve hot.

Notes

For an extra kick, top with jalapeño slices or a dollop of sour cream. You can also swap ground beef for ground turkey or use vegetarian meat crumbles.