Pin One-Pan High Protein Chili Mac is a hearty, creamy, and beefy one-pot meal that combines the best of chili and macaroni and cheese. Packed with protein, smoky spices, and gooey cheddar, this comforting dish is quick enough for any weeknight and completely customizable to suit your tastes.
Pin This recipe is the perfect solution for those nights when you crave a home-cooked meal but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen. By cooking the pasta directly in the sauce, it absorbs all the rich flavors of the chili spices and beef broth, resulting in a deeper taste than traditional stovetop mac.
Ingredients
- Protein: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef, turkey, chicken, or plant-based ground
- Aromatics: 1 medium onion (diced), 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- Spices: 2 tbsp chili powder, 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Sauce Base: 1 can (14.5 oz/400 g) diced tomatoes (undrained), 1/2 cup (120 ml) tomato sauce, 2 cups (480 ml) low-sodium beef or chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- Pasta: 2 cups (200 g) dry elbow macaroni or other short pasta
- Cheese: 2 cups (200 g) shredded sharp or mild cheddar cheese
- Optional Add-Ins: 1 can (15 oz/425 g) black beans or kidney beans (drained and rinsed), 1 jalapeño (diced)
- Toppings: Sliced green onions, sour cream, crushed tortilla chips, extra shredded cheese, fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Step 1
- Heat a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon (about 4–5 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
- Step 2
- Add the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 3
- Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to coat the meat and onions with the spices.
- Step 4
- Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, and broth. Stir well to combine.
- Step 5
- Add the dry macaroni and optional beans and/or jalapeño if using. Stir, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Step 6
- Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed (about 10–12 minutes).
- Step 7
- Turn off the heat. Sprinkle shredded cheddar over the pasta, then stir until melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Step 8
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
- Step 9
- Ladle into bowls. Add desired toppings such as green onions, sour cream, tortilla chips, cilantro, or extra cheese. Serve hot.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best texture, stir the pasta occasionally while it simmers to prevent it from sticking to the bottom. If you notice the liquid is mostly absorbed but the pasta is still firm, add a small splash of broth. Using freshly shredded cheddar instead of pre-shredded will give you a much creamier, smoother melt.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This dish is incredibly versatile. For a vegetarian version, use canned beans or plant-based ground meat and vegetable broth. You can also swap the pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free versions, adjusting the simmer time as needed. For extra smoky depth, try adding 1/2 tsp of chipotle powder or a splash of hot sauce during the spice stage.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this hearty Chili Mac with a variety of textures on top. The crunch of crushed tortilla chips and the coolness of sour cream perfectly balance the warm, spicy pasta. For a bit of freshness, don't skimp on the sliced green onions and fresh cilantro. It also pairs excellently with a side of cornbread for a true comfort food feast.
Pin Whether you're looking for a post-workout meal or a quick weeknight dinner, this One-Pan High Protein Chili Mac is a reliable favorite. Its robust flavors and simple preparation make it a standout recipe you'll want to return to again and again.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I make this dish vegetarian or gluten-free?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground meat with plant-based ground or canned beans. If you need it gluten-free, simply use a certified gluten-free elbow macaroni or other short pasta and adjust the cooking time as directed on the package.
- → How can I customize the spice level?
You can easily adjust the heat. For a spicier kick, add a diced jalapeño along with the macaroni, or stir in a pinch of chipotle powder or a splash of your favorite hot sauce with the spices. If you prefer it milder, reduce the amount of chili powder slightly.
- → What type of cheese is recommended for the best flavor?
Shredded sharp or mild cheddar cheese provides a classic, gooey texture and robust flavor. For an extra layer of taste, consider mixing in Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for added creaminess and a hint of spice.
- → How long do leftovers last and what's the best way to reheat?
Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, the pasta may absorb more liquid, so add a splash of broth or milk to bring back the desired creaminess.
- → Are there any other ingredients I can add to enhance the dish?
Yes, this is a very customizable meal! Consider stirring in canned black beans or kidney beans for extra fiber, or incorporating different vegetables like bell peppers or corn. You can also experiment with various cheese blends for unique flavor profiles.
- → My pasta seems too dry or too soupy. What should I do?
Pasta can absorb liquid differently. If it's too dry, add a little more broth, a quarter cup at a time, until the desired consistency is reached. If it's too soupy, continue to simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to allow the liquid to reduce, or stir in a little extra cheese to help thicken it.