Introduction
Nothing beats a warm, hearty meal after a long day, and if you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in cozy flavors, look no further than this One-Pan Cheesy Comfort Chili Mac. This delightful fusion of classic chili and macaroni and cheese creates a comforting bowl of goodness that’s perfect for any occasion—be it a family dinner, a game day gathering, or simply a lazy weeknight meal.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and ease; everything cooks together in just one pan, which means less time spent on cleanup and more time enjoying your meal. Made with ground beef, beans, vibrant vegetables, and plenty of gooey cheese, this dish is not only satisfying but also flexible—perfect for using whatever pantry staples you have on hand.
Get ready to dive into a symphony of flavors that blend the spice of chili with the creaminess of mac and cheese, all nestled in one pot that will keep you warm and content. Let’s get started on this delicious adventure that is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for topping)
- Fresh cilantro or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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- In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, add the ground beef (or turkey). Cook until browned, using a spoon to break it up, around 5-7 minutes. If needed, drain any excess fat.
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- Incorporate the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper into the skillet. Sauté for approximately 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
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- Add in the kidney beans, black beans, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth.
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- Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, mixing everything well until combined.
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- Bring the mixture to a soft boil, then add the elbow macaroni. Stir everything together, cover with a lid, and lower the heat to simmer. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed some of the liquid.
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- After the pasta reaches the desired tenderness, take the skillet off the heat. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and creamy.
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- Dish out the chili mac warm in bowls, garnished with the remaining cheddar cheese, a spoonful of sour cream if desired, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or green onions.
- Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 40 min | Servings: 6
Key Ingredients
- Macaroni Pasta: 2 cups (elbow macaroni works best)
- Ground Beef or Turkey: 1 pound (you can also use a plant-based meat alternative)
- Chili Beans: 1 can (15 oz, drained and rinsed)
- Diced Tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 oz, with juices)
- Beef or Vegetable Broth: 2 cups
- Chili Powder: 1 tablespoon (adjust to taste)
- Cumin: 1 teaspoon
- Onion: 1 small, diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups shredded (plus extra for topping)
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Optional Toppings: Sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro
Feel free to customize with your favorite spices or additional veggies!
Baking Process
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your macaroni and cheese dish bakes evenly and thoroughly.
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Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add your choice of macaroni and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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Sauté the Vegetables: In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Brown the Meat: If using ground beef or turkey, add it to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Cook until browned, breaking up the meat with a spatula, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
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Stir in the Spices: Add in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and any other spices you like. Stir well to combine, allowing the spices to toast for an additional 1-2 minutes.
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Add the Sauce: Pour in canned diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and a bit of chicken or vegetable broth. Stir well, scraping any brown bits off the bottom of the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Combine the Ingredients: Gently fold the cooked macaroni into the skillet with the chili mixture, ensuring the pasta is well-coated with sauce. Add in your choice of cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend) and stir until melted and combined.
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Top with Cheese: Once everything is mixed together, sprinkle an extra layer of cheese on top. This adds that gooey, cheesy layer that everyone loves in a comfort dish.
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Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. If you love a crispy top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Top with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro, if desired. Enjoy your One-Pan Cheesy Comfort Chili Mac straight from the skillet for a truly cozy meal!
Serving Suggestions
To make your One-Pan Cheesy Comfort Chili Mac even more enjoyable, consider these serving suggestions that will elevate your meal:
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Fresh Toppings: Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top for a creamy contrast. Sprinkle with chopped green onions, cilantro, or fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
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Cheese Galore: While the dish is already cheesy, consider adding a little extra shredded cheese on top right before serving. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a sprinkle of crumbled feta can take it to the next level.
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Crunchy Add-ins: Serve with a side of crispy tortilla chips or homemade garlic bread for some delightful crunch, perfect for scooping up the Chili Mac.
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Pickled Garnishes: A side of pickled jalapeños or sliced olives can bring an extra zing. The tanginess perfectly complements the richness of the dish.
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Salad Pairing: Balance the hearty chili mac with a light salad. A simple mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette or a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad can add freshness to your meal.
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Comforting Sides: For those craving more comfort food, serve with cornbread or warm biscuits. This way, you’ll have additional options to soak up the delicious chili sauce.
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Beverage Pairings: A cold soda, iced tea, or even a light beer can pair beautifully with this comforting dish. For a non-alcoholic option, consider a fun mocktail with lime juice and sparkling water.
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Meal Prep: If you’re looking to enjoy this dish throughout the week, consider making a double batch and freezing individual portions to have on busy nights. Just reheat and enjoy with your favorite toppings!
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions based on your mood or occasion. Enjoy your cozy, cheesy meal!
Conclusion
In just one pot, you can whip up this hearty and satisfying One-Pan Cheesy Comfort Chili Mac that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy gathering with friends. The combination of seasoned ground meat, al dente macaroni, zesty chili spices, and a gooey, melty cheese topping creates a symphony of flavors that will warm your heart and fill your belly.
This dish not only simplifies your clean-up process but also allows you to customize it with your favorite ingredients—think bell peppers, beans, or even a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
So why not give it a try? It’s a delightful comfort food that brings everyone together around the dinner table. Serve it up with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad, and enjoy the compliments from your family and friends! Happy cooking!
