One Pot Mac Chili

Name: One Pot Mac Chili
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 1/2 cups chicken broth; 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained; 1 (15 oz) can petite diced tomatoes; 2–3 tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper; 1/3 cup brown sugar; Salt and pepper to taste; 10 oz elbow macaroni (uncooked); 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

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When it comes to satisfying weeknight meals that please the whole family, nothing hits the spot quite like a hearty bowl of One Pot Mac Chili. This irresistible dish combines two comfort food legends—chili and macaroni and cheese—into one creamy, spicy, flavor-packed pot. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out and makes cleanup a breeze thanks to the magic of one-pot cooking.

In this article, you’ll learn why this dish is a favorite for busy weeknights, discover the best ingredients for bold flavor, and follow an easy, step-by-step guide to make it perfectly every time. Looking for inspiration? Try our Creamy White Chicken Chili for another cozy dinner idea. Let’s dive in!

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Why One Pot Mac Chili is a Weeknight Game-Changer

A fusion of two American classics

Few combinations are more satisfying than chili and mac and cheese. One Pot Mac Chili brings together the rich, spiced beefiness of chili with the creamy, cheesy goodness of macaroni—all in a single pan. This recipe is more than just convenient—it’s crave-worthy. It’s perfect for families who can’t decide between pasta night and chili night. Now, you don’t have to.

Benefits of one-pot meals for busy households

Life gets hectic—whether you’re juggling work, school, or just trying to get dinner on the table without a pile of dishes. That’s where one-pot recipes shine. With fewer pans to clean, and simple ingredients all cooking together, you save time without sacrificing flavor. Plus, all the flavors meld together as it simmers, making each bite rich and complex.

Check out our Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake for another nutritious, one-pan dinner option that cuts back on cleanup.

Flavor-packed comfort in under 30 minutes

What really makes this dish a winner is how fast it comes together. With just a bit of chopping, a sauté, and a simmer, you’re looking at dinner in 30 minutes or less. That means less time in the kitchen and more time relaxing or spending time with family. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a lazy weekend, this mac chili will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients That Bring This One Pot Magic to Life

Pantry staples that add bold flavor

What’s great about One Pot Mac Chili is that it uses everyday ingredients you probably already have:

Ground beef – hearty, juicy, and satisfying
Onions and garlic – the flavor base for any good chili
Kidney beans – for added fiber and bulk
Diced tomatoes – add tang and richness
Chicken broth – keeps it moist and savory
Elbow macaroni – holds the cheesy, chili goodness in every bite
Cheddar cheese – melted in at the end for maximum creaminess
Spices – chili powder, paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and a touch of brown sugar to round it out

Don’t miss our Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili for another twist on classic chili flavors.

Customization tips for different taste preferences

This recipe is super adaptable. Want it hotter? Add jalapeños or double up on cayenne. Prefer it smokier? A dash of chipotle powder does the trick. Feeding picky eaters? Use less spice and more cheese. You can even substitute the beef with ground turkey or a plant-based alternative if you’re looking to make it lighter.

Ingredient swaps for healthier versions

Looking to make it healthier without sacrificing taste? Try these swaps:

Traditional Ingredient	Healthier Swap
Ground beef	Lean ground turkey
Cheddar cheese	Low-fat cheddar
Elbow macaroni	Whole wheat pasta
Chicken broth	Low-sodium broth
Brown sugar	Maple syrup (just a touch)

If you love making comfort food lighter, don’t miss our Roasted Vegetable Winter Salad as a nutritious side option.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making One Pot Mac Chili

Prepping your ingredients for efficiency

Before you start cooking, dice your onion, mince the garlic, measure your spices, and shred the cheese. Having everything ready saves time and makes sure nothing gets forgotten.

Cooking technique: layering flavor in one pan

Brown the beef and onion in a large 4-quart sauté pan over medium heat until the meat is no longer pink and onions are soft.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
Stir in chicken broth, drained beans, diced tomatoes, spices, and brown sugar. Bring everything to a boil.
Add the uncooked elbow macaroni, reduce heat, and let it simmer uncovered for 12–15 minutes or until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper to taste.

Finishing touches: cheesy, hearty, irresistible

The final step is where it gets exciting: the cheddar melts into the chili mac, binding everything together. For an extra pop, garnish with fresh parsley, sour cream, or even crushed tortilla chips. It’s perfect as-is but can easily be upgraded with your favorite toppings.

Craving even more easy meals? Don’t miss our Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Rice Casserole—a cheesy, filling classic.

Expert Tips to Elevate Your Chili Mac Game

How to avoid overcooked pasta

The key to perfect chili mac lies in timing your pasta just right. Since the macaroni cooks directly in the broth and tomato mixture, it absorbs both moisture and flavor. Start checking it around the 12-minute mark to avoid a mushy texture. Stir occasionally to keep it from sticking to the bottom and to ensure even cooking.

Balancing sweetness, spice, and salt

A spoonful of brown sugar might seem out of place in a savory dish, but it’s crucial for balancing the acidity of the tomatoes and the heat from the spices. Use a ⅓ cup as a base and adjust to your taste. If it’s too sweet, add a splash of vinegar or a pinch of extra chili powder. Salt at the end to avoid overseasoning.

Discover great ideas like this in our Slow Cooker French Wine Mustard Chicken—another flavorful recipe that’s all about balance.

Best cookware for one-pot wonders

A heavy-bottomed 4-quart sauté pan or Dutch oven is ideal for this recipe. It distributes heat evenly and has enough depth to handle the pasta expansion. Non-stick options help avoid burnt bottoms, especially when you simmer with cheese in the final step.

Check out our Creamy Roasted Garlic Butternut Squash Pasta to see another one-pot masterpiece in action.

Delicious Variations of One Pot Mac Chili

Vegetarian and vegan options

Want to ditch the meat? No problem. Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils. Use veggie broth instead of chicken broth, and opt for dairy-free cheese shreds if you’re going fully vegan. The result is still hearty and packed with protein and fiber.

Spice it up: Tex-Mex and Southwest styles

Add black beans, corn, and diced green chilies to give this dish a Tex-Mex makeover. Sprinkle in some cumin and top with avocado or lime for that extra zing. For a Southwest twist, try using pepper jack cheese and a dash of smoked paprika.

Love fusion flavors? Don’t miss our Sage Butter Pumpkin Cheese Ravioli for a fall-flavored twist on pasta night.

Kid-friendly adaptations for picky eaters

If your little ones are spice-sensitive, simply scale back the chili powder and cayenne. You can also sneak in some extra veggies like finely diced carrots or zucchini while cooking the beef—they’ll blend right in. Swap the sharp cheddar with a mild American blend to keep it mellow.

What to Serve With One Pot Mac Chili

Side dishes that complement the flavor

Even though this dish stands strong on its own, pairing it with the right sides can take it up a notch:

Cornbread – Adds sweetness and texture
Simple green salad – Balances out the richness
Garlic bread – For those who want extra carbs (and who doesn’t?)
Pickled jalapeños – If you like more bite with your bowl

Looking for a warming drink pairing? Try our Tart Cherry Mulled Drink for a cozy seasonal combo.

Best toppings and garnishes

Finish off your mac chili with:

Chopped parsley or green onions
Shredded cheese
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Crushed tortilla chips
Sliced avocado

The beauty of toppings is you can let everyone at the table customize their bowl to their liking.

How to store and reheat leftovers

Got leftovers? Lucky you. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It reheats beautifully on the stove or microwave. If it thickens too much, just add a splash of broth or water and stir. For longer storage, freeze it in portions—just hold the cheese until reheating for best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between chili mac and goulash?

While both are one-pot pasta meals, goulash often uses tomato sauce and paprika as its base with less spice, and may include bell peppers. Chili mac, on the other hand, features stronger chili seasonings and a bolder flavor profile, with beans and cheese mixed in.

Can you freeze One Pot Chili Mac?

Yes, you can! Freeze it in portion-sized containers after it cools completely. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop. For best results, add the cheese only during reheating to keep it creamy.

How do you thicken chili mac?

If your chili mac turns out a little too soupy, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes. You can also stir in a bit more cheese or a spoonful of cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce.

What pasta works best in chili mac recipes?

Elbow macaroni is the gold standard—it cooks quickly and holds sauce well. But you can also use rotini, shells, or small penne if that’s what you have on hand.

Final Thoughts on One Pot Mac Chili

A family-favorite comfort food made simple

One Pot Mac Chili is more than just a dish—it’s a dinner solution. Whether you’re short on time or energy, this recipe delivers flavor, comfort, and satisfaction all in a single pot. It’s an easy way to keep your meals exciting while using pantry staples.

Not only does it satisfy picky eaters and spice lovers alike, but it’s also perfect for batch cooking, freezing, and meal prepping. From game nights to cold-weather dinners, it’s always a good time to whip up this cheesy, spicy mashup.

Make-ahead, meal-prep friendly, and always satisfying

You don’t need to be a kitchen pro to pull this off. With the right ingredients and a little attention to timing, you’ll have a dish that tastes like it took hours—but really didn’t. For another easy dinner win, don’t miss our Slow Cooker Beef Barbacoa—a no-fuss, flavor-packed meal you can prep ahead.

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