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One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese

A hearty and comforting one pot chili mac and cheese that combines bold chili flavors with creamy, cheesy pasta for an easy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (15 oz) can chili beans, drained
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  2. Add ground beef and garlic, cook until beef is browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon.
  3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Add chili beans, diced tomatoes with chilies, beef broth, and elbow macaroni. Stir to combine.
  5. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
  6. Remove pot from heat and stir in shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and creamy.
  7. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed and serve warm.

Notes

For extra heat, top with sliced jalapeños or a dollop of sour cream before serving.