Description

This One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food mashup, combining hearty chili flavor with creamy, cheesy pasta in a single pan. Perfect for busy nights, this quick dinner idea is packed with bold spices, tender beef, and melty cheddar—all with minimal cleanup. Whether you’re after easy dinner ideas, family-friendly meals, or cozy food ideas for cold nights, this recipe checks every box.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 pound lean ground beef

2 tablespoons chili powder

1 teaspoon cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

1 can (15 oz) crushed fire-roasted tomatoes

3 cups beef broth

2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook another minute.

2. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink.

3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne. Let spices toast for about a minute.

4. Pour in crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Stir to combine and bring to a boil.

5. Add elbow macaroni. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes or until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

6. Turn off the heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.

7. Let sit for a couple minutes to thicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt—pre-shredded won’t give that smooth finish.

If the mixture seems too thick after adding cheese, loosen it with a splash of warm broth.

Stir the pot occasionally while pasta cooks to prevent sticking and ensure even texture.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: One Pot
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 510
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 880mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 29g
Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: one pot chili mac and cheese, easy dinner, comfort food, quick dinner, family meal, cheesy pasta, weeknight dinner