One Pot Chili Mac is made with seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, beans and a delicious cheese sauce for the ultimate comfort food meal.
From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito
When comfort food cravings hit, this Chili Mac and Cheese checks every box. It’s hearty, cozy and all made just in one pot. Which is great for me because who wants a sink full of dishes to do after dinner? This is the kind of meal that hits the spot on a cold night, reheats beautifully, and always disappears fast.
What makes this chili mac extra special is the Velveeta. It melts beautifully into the sauce creating a super creamy texture without any fuss. Combined with seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, beans and classic chili flavors, this dish is simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to be a repeat recipe!
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious dinner. You can find the full ingredients list along with measurements in the recipe card below.
- Ground Beef – The protein that makes the dish hearty and filling.
- Onion – Builds a savory base and adds natural sweetness.
- Garlic – Enhances overall flavor.
- Chili Seasoning – Brings warmth, spice, and that unmistakable chili taste without needing a long simmer. I used Mccormick Chili Seasoning.
- Tomato Sauce – Creates the body of the sauce. I used Tuttorosso.
- Diced Tomatoes – Add texture and a slight acidity that balances the richness of the cheese.
- Kidney Beans- Adds heartiness and texture and makes the dish more filling. I used Bush's brand.
- Beef Broth – Infuses flavor into the pasta as it cooks and prevents the dish from becoming too thick. I used Swanson.
- Medium Pasta Shells – The perfect pasta for holding onto sauce and cheese in every bite. I used Ronzoni.
- Velveeta Cheese – The star ingredient! It melts smoothly for a creamy, foolproof cheese sauce.
- Cheddar Cheese- Adds richness, creaminess and real cheddar cheese flavor into every bite
- Salt & Pepper – Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
Instructions
Here’s how to make this delicious meal. You can find the full ingredients list along with instructions in the recipe card below.
First, In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with the onion until fully cooked, then add garlic and chili seasoning. Stir in tomato sauce, beans, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
NOTE: You can leave out the chili seasoning packet and season it yourself if you'd like to. The packet is just super convenient, flavorful and cuts time.
Now, add the pasta directly to the pot and place the lid on top for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally or until the pasta is tender.
PRO TIP: Be sure to stir the pasta on ocassion to prevent sticking and ensure it cooks evenly
Then, turn the heat off and stir in cubed Velveeta and shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted. Season with salt and pepper, let it rest for 5 minutes and enjoy!
PRO TIP: Cut the Velveeta into small cubs so it melts quickly and evenly.
NOTE: Let it rest before serving so the sauce can thicken up.
What Can I Serve This With?
It’s a full meal on its own, but it pairs well with Homemade Garlic Bread, cornbread, a simple green salad or vegetable.
Can I Use Ground Turkey Or Chicken Instead Of Beef?
Yes, you definitely can. Ground turkey or chicken works well and still absorbs all the chili flavors.
Do I Have To Use The Velveeta?
You don't have to, technically but I highly recommend it. The Velveeta keeps the pasta sauce silky and creamy. If you choose not to, you can replace the Velveeta with hand shredded cheddar cheese.
Can I Make This Spicy?
Yes! Add diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne, or a splash of hot sauce. You can also use hot chili seasoning or spicy Rotel instead of the regular diced tomatoes if you like heat.
Storage
Let the chili Mac cool completely and place it into an air tight container. It will last in the fridge for up to three days.
One Pot Chili Mac Recipe
Equipment
- large pot
Ingredients
- 1 Pound Ground Beef
- 1 Small Onion, chopped
- 3 Cloves Garlic, chopped
- 1.25 Oz Packet Chili Seasoning
- 15 Oz Can Tomato Sauce
- 10 Oz Can Diced Tomatoes, not drained
- 2 Cups Beef Broth
- 15 Oz Kidney Beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 Cups Medium Pasta Shells
- 8 Oz Velveeta, cubed to small pieces
- 1.5 Cups Cheddar Cheese, hand shredded
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with the onion until fully cooked over medium high heat. Stir in the garlic and chili seasoning and let that cook for one minute. Stir in the tomato sauce, beans, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Bring the heat down to a simmer.
- Add the pasta directly to the pot and place the lid on top for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally or until the pasta is tender.
- Turn the heat off and stir in cubed Velveeta and shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted. Season with salt and pepper, let it rest for 5 minutes and enjoy!
Other Easy Dinner Ideas
If you like super easy to make recipes like this one, you have to try Chicken Pot Pie Pasta, Baked Italian Sunset Pasta and Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Pasta
Rachel says
This was such an easy meal to make and turned out great! A comfy and hardy meal that is perfect for the fall and winter days. I used 3 cups of noodles and it worked out great to have it be thicker. It was great!