Imagine a dish that combines the hearty, bold flavors of chili with the creamy, irresistible comfort of mac and cheese - all cooked in just one pot! This Mexican-American fusion recipe is about to become your new weeknight dinner obsession. Perfect for hungry families, busy home cooks, and anyone craving a meal that's both satisfying and incredibly easy to prepare, our One Pot Chili Con Queso Mac Cheese will have everyone at the table begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Mexican-American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can chili beans
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: jalapeños, sour cream
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by measuring and setting them out on your kitchen counter. Ensure ground beef is at room temperature and cheese is freshly shredded.
- Place a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and break it apart using a wooden spoon, cooking until fully browned and no pink remains, approximately 6-7 minutes.
- Drain excess fat from the beef if desired, leaving a small amount for additional flavor. Return pot to heat.
- Add chili powder, salt, and pepper to the ground beef. Stir to combine and distribute seasonings evenly.
- Pour in chicken broth and chili beans, stirring to integrate with the beef. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add elbow macaroni to the pot, ensuring it's submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once pasta is almost al dente, reduce heat to low and gradually fold in shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously to create a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Remove from heat once cheese is fully melted and pasta is tender. Let stand for 2-3 minutes to allow sauce to thicken.
- Serve hot, garnishing with optional toppings like sliced jalapeños and a dollop of sour cream.
Tips
- Shred your cheese fresh: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce less smooth. Grate cheese yourself for the creamiest results.
- Don't rush the browning: Take time to properly brown the ground beef to develop deep, rich flavors that will enhance the entire dish.
- Watch your liquid ratio: Stir occasionally while cooking to prevent pasta from sticking and ensure even cooking.
- For extra heat, add diced jalapeños directly into the pot or use them as a garnish.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the sauce to thicken naturally.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven for even heat distribution and prevention of burning.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey for beef or use low-fat cheese.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 580kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 38g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 120mg
