Easy One Pot Chili Mac

Name: Easy One Pot Chili Mac
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 can diced tomatoes, 14 ounces; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup tomato sauce; 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

This simple one pot meal combines the savory flavors of chili with creamy macaroni and cheese for the ultimate comfort dinner.

By Daily Recipes Book· 🌍 American· July 19, 2026

dailyrecipesbook.com

Prep

10 minutes

Cook

20 minutes

Total

30 minutes

Serves

Chili Mac is a family favorite in my house because it is filling, cozy, and saves me from washing a sink full of dishes. It brings together the zesty seasonings of a hearty chili with tender pasta and plenty of melted cheddar cheese.

I love how quickly this comes together on a busy weeknight. If you have extra time, let the sauce simmer a bit longer before adding the pasta to help the flavors deepen even more.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 can diced tomatoes, 14 ounces
2 cups beef broth
1 cup tomato sauce
2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium high heat.
2
Add the ground beef and onion to the pot, cooking until the meat is browned and the onion is soft.
3
Stir in the garlic, chili powder, and cumin, cooking for one minute until fragrant.
4
Pour in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and tomato sauce, then stir everything well.
5
Add the dry macaroni and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
6
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 10 to 12 minutes or until the pasta is tender.
7
Remove the lid and stir in the shredded cheese until it is melted and creamy.
8
Season with salt and pepper before serving warm.

💡 Tips

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If the pasta absorbs too much liquid while stored, just add a splash of water or broth when reheating. Top your bowl with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions for a pop of color.

#comfort food #one pot meal #dinner #family friendly

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