One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese

You will love this Easy Chili Mac

Every family needs go-to meals that come together quickly! These go-to’s are perfect for busy weeknights, relaxing weekends, or when you’re hosting and want a tried-and-true meal to serve that you know pleases!

This Chili Mac Recipe checks all those boxes for ease and flavor! The kick of chili combines with creamy mac and cheese right in one pot that hits the table in just 30 minutes.

Minimal dishes, quick clean up, AND a delicious meal – Now that’s a win we all need more of!

One Pot Chili Mac Ingredients

Canola oil or vegetable oil
Ground beef
Chili Powder
Paprika
Ground cumin
Mustard powder
Kosher salt
Ground black pepper
Beef brother
Water
Petite diced tomatoes with green chile
Elbow macaroni
Cream cheese
Whole milk
Lime juice
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese

I love that this was TRULY a one pot meal! It came together quickly and was easy to make. It was a big hit at the church potluck. I love that it had just a little kick of heat but nothing overwhelming. Thank you!

– Amy S.

How To Make Chili Mac and Cheese:

1. Heat the oil in a heavy-bottom pan or Dutch oven on medium-high heat. Add the ground beef to the pan and break it up with a spatula.
2. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently until beef is browned and cooked through and then drain the juice from the beef.
3. Add the seasonings, beef broth, water, and diced tomatoes to the pot and bring to a boil. Once boiling, add in uncooked elbow macaroni and cook covered for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until macaroni is al dente.
4. Add in the cream cheese, I like to use my spatula to break it into smaller pieces as I add it so it melts faster. You could also cube it up before adding.
5. Once the cream cheese has melted, add in the milk, lime juice, and shredded cheese and stir until the cheddar cheese has fully melted. Add salt and pepper to taste.
6. Remove from heat and serve hot. Garnish with parsley or cilantro.

Homemade Chili Mac Variations

Beans – It really depends on where you’re from, but to some people, beans are a chili staple and you can definitely add them in. Simply add a can of drained and rinsed red kidney beans or black beans to the dish during step 3.
Onion – I almost always add onion to my chili, but I didn’t want this recipe to include any real prep time, but if you want, feel free to dice up a yellow onion and toss it in with the beef in Step 1.
Pepper – You could also add in a diced bell pepper if that’s something you usually enjoy in your chili, add it in during Step 3.
Heat – The base for this recipe isn’t overly spicy so that kids will enjoy it too, but if you like things a little hotter, feel free to add in some fresh diced jalapeno peppers, a small can of green chili, extra chili powder, or even a touch of cayenne pepper to meet your tastes.
Pasta – I prefer to use elbow macaroni for this dish, but small or medium shells would work too and have a similar cook time.
Cheese – I usually use a sharp cheddar cheese, but you could use a three cheese or Mexican blend if you’d like. A Monterey Jack would also be delicious!
Turkey – If you want something a bit leaner than ground beef, you can swap it out for ground turkey.

How To Serve One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese

This homemade chili mac and cheese is best served hot and garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley. You can enjoy this mac and cheese with a side of bread.

Try serving this chili mac with a delicious carb! Dinner rolls or buttermilk cornbread are great options that complement this dish. To lighten the meal up, you can serve a garden salad loaded with fresh vegetables.

However, if you prefer, you can also top the chili mac with crackers, chips, or other classic chili toppings that are your favorite!

How To Store Cheesy Chili Mac

Store any leftover cheesy chili mac in an airtight container in the fridge. Enjoy the leftovers for lunch or dinner for up to 4 days.

More Delicious Pasta Recipes

• Antipasti Pasta Salad – Coated in a simple balsamic and olive oil dressing!
• Corn Mac and Cheese – Made with an easy dump and bake method!
• Fettucine Alfredo – Rich, creamy sauce made in just 10 minutes!
• Cajun Chicken Pasta – A mouthwatering dish loaded with a kick of spice!
• Jamaican Rasta Pasta (30 Minute Dinner) – Ready in just 30 minutes!

This recipe was originally published on March 15, 2015, and was updated in June 2018.