One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese
This one-pot recipe provides a straightforward method for preparing a hearty Chili Mac and Cheese. It combines dry pasta with canned chili, drained diced tomatoes, and green chiles, finished with processed cheese for a creamy, comforting, and flavorful meal with minimal cleanup.
Equipment
- 1 Large Pot or Dutch Oven Essential for one-pot cooking, ensuring even heat distribution.
- 1 Measuring Cups For accurate measurement of dry pasta and added liquid.
- 1 Can Opener For opening chili, diced tomatoes, and green chiles.
- 1 Stirring Spoon or Spatula For stirring pasta during cooking and melting cheese.
- 1 Chef's knife For cubing the processed cheese product for quicker melting.
Ingredients
Main
- 4 1/2 Cups Dry Pasta (Macaroni or Penne)
- 16 Ounces Processed Cheese Product (Velveeta)
- 14.5 Ounces Diced Tomatoes (one can, drained)
- 7 Ounces Diced Green Chiles (one can, drained)
- 15 Ounces Chili Without Beans (one can)
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the canned chili, drained diced tomatoes, and drained diced green chiles.
- Add 6 cups of water or chicken/vegetable broth to the pot and bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
- Once boiling, add the dry pasta (macaroni or penne) to the pot, ensuring it is fully submerged by stirring well.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or according to pasta package directions, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- While the pasta simmers, cut the processed cheese product (Velveeta) into 1-inch cubes to facilitate faster melting.
- Once the pasta is cooked and the liquid is mostly absorbed, remove the pot from the heat.
- Add the cubed Velveeta to the hot pasta mixture and stir vigorously until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Taste the chili mac and cheese and adjust seasoning as necessary, adding salt, pepper, or a pinch of chili powder for enhanced flavor.
- Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes off the heat to allow the sauce to thicken slightly to a desired consistency.
- Serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions.
Notes
To elevate this simple one-pot dish, consider adding aromatics like diced onion and garlic by sautéing them briefly in a little oil at the beginning before adding other ingredients and liquid. While Velveeta offers a smooth texture, for a sharper flavor, a blend of freshly shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack can be used, though it might alter the 'one-pot' nature slightly by requiring a splash of milk or cream to maintain desired consistency. Always taste and adjust seasoning at the end; canned ingredients can vary significantly in sodium. A final garnish of fresh cilantro or chopped green onions will add welcome freshness and color.