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One-Pot Chili Mac and Cheese with Ground Beef

One-pot chili mac and cheese with ground beef combines elbow macaroni, kidney beans, and a richly seasoned tomato broth in a single Dutch oven. The pasta simmers until tender, then sharp cheddar melts into a hearty, creamy finish.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 27 minutes
Standing 3 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 680
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tbsp neutral oil
  • 1 lb ground beef 85% lean
  • 1 yellow onion medium, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
  • 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
  • 12 oz elbow macaroni
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded

Equipment

  • 1 6-quart Dutch oven

Method
 

  1. Heat the oil in a 6-quart Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned and it reaches 160°F, about 6 to 8 minutes.
  3. Add the onion and cook, stirring, until softened, about 4 minutes.
  4. Stir in the garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
  5. Stir in the beef broth, diced tomatoes with their juices, and tomato sauce, scraping up any browned bits.
  6. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  7. Stir in the macaroni and kidney beans.
  8. Reduce the heat to maintain a steady simmer, and cook uncovered for 11 to 14 minutes, stirring often, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  9. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the cheddar until melted.
  10. Let stand for 3 minutes before serving.

Notes

For the best texture, stir often while the pasta simmers so it cooks evenly and does not stick. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3 to 4 days; freezing is not recommended because the pasta can turn soft. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free elbow macaroni and follow its package guidance for doneness.