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Easy One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese. picture

One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese.

This One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese is a creamy, indulgent delight packed with bold spices and cheesy goodness!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chili Mac:
  • 1 pound ground beef (or ground chicken)
  • 1 yellow onion , chopped
  • 1 poblano pepper , seeded and chopped
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 can (28 ounces) crushed fire-roasted tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2-3 cups chicken or beef broth
  • 1 pound short cut pasta
  • 1/4 cup hot sauce
  • 2 ounces cream cheese , at room temperature
  • 2 cups shredded melty cheese (colby, cheddar, pepper jack)
  • Green onions and cilantro for serving

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cutting board and knife

Method
 

Cooking Instructions:
  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add the ground beef (or ground chicken). Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Add the chopped yellow onion and poblano pepper. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
  2. Stir in the chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook for another minute, allowing the spices to release their fragrances.
  3. Pour in the crushed fire-roasted tomatoes, tomato paste, and diced green chilies. Stir well to combine, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  4. Add 2-3 cups of chicken or beef broth, depending on your desired consistency. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  5. Once simmering, add the short-cut pasta to the pot. Stir well, cover, and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. Reduce the heat to low, and mix in the hot sauce and cream cheese. Stir until everything is well combined and creamy.
  7. Fold in the shredded melty cheese until it’s completely melted and incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  8. Serve your One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese hot, garnished with fresh green onions and cilantro. Enjoy this comforting meal with your loved ones!

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with black beans or lentils.
  • Use gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.