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One-Pot Chili Mac

A hearty, cheesy comfort food classic combining chili and mac & cheese into one pot. Ready in 30 minutes and perfect for weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 bowls
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb lean ground beef or turkey
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • 1 green bell pepper diced
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.5 tsp cayenne pepper optional
  • 14 oz diced tomatoes
  • 15 oz kidney beans drained and rinsed
  • 3 cups beef broth or chicken broth
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni uncooked
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or blend
  • salt and black pepper to taste
  • fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Equipment

  • Dutch oven or large pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • Cheese grater

Method
 

  1. Brown ground beef in olive oil. Drain excess fat.
  2. Add onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Cook until softened.
  3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne.
  4. Add diced tomatoes and kidney beans. Stir well.
  5. Pour in broth and uncooked macaroni. Cover and simmer 10–12 minutes.
  6. Stir in cheese until melted and creamy.
  7. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Notes

For extra creaminess, add 2 oz cream cheese when stirring in cheddar.