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September 28, 2026

One-Pot Chili Mac and Cheese

One-pot chili mac and cheese with melted cheddar in a skillet
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Two comfort food classics in one pot: a beefy chili with beans and tomatoes and tender macaroni that cooks right in the sauce, finished with a blanket of melted cheddar. Hearty, budget-friendly and on the table in 30 minutes.

Prep10 minutesCook20 minutesTotal30 minutesServings6Calories520 kcalCost per serving$1.85

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Affiliate disclosure: Savora America may earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
  • 2 cups (480 ml) beef broth
  • 2 cups (225 g) elbow macaroni, uncooked
  • 1 1/2 cups (170 g) shredded cheddar
  • Sour cream and green onions for serving

Instructions

  1. Brown the beef with the onion in a large pot over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat.
  2. Stir in the garlic, chili powder, cumin and salt and cook 1 minute.
  3. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beans and broth. Bring to a boil.
  4. Stir in the macaroni, cover and simmer 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
  5. Stir in 1 cup cheddar, sprinkle the rest on top, cover 2 minutes to melt and serve with sour cream and green onions.

Tips for the best results

Stir every few minutes so the pasta does not stick to the bottom. If it gets too thick, add a splash of broth.

Nutrition per serving

520calories
Protein
31 g
62% of daily value
Carbs
46 g
17% of daily value
Fat
23 g
29% of daily value

Daily values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet.

Estimated values per serving, without toppings.

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