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One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese

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This hearty One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese combines creamy, cheesy pasta with a spicy chili twist for a comforting and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
  2. Add diced onion and garlic to the beef; sauté until onions are translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
  3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with juice), and beef broth. Stir to combine.
  5. Bring mixture to a boil, then add elbow macaroni. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook until pasta is tender, about 10–12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. Once pasta is cooked, remove pot from heat. Stir in cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and creamy.
  7. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired and serve hot.

Notes

For extra spice, add a diced jalapeño with the onions, or top with sour cream and sliced green onions before serving.

Find it online: https://cubaqueen.com/one-pot-chili-mac-and-cheese/