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One Pot Chili Cheese Mac served in a bowl, topped with cheese and chili

One Pot Chili Cheese Mac

A creamy pasta dish combined with robust spices and melted cheese, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground beef (or ground chicken) Can substitute with turkey or a meat alternative.
  • 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 Adjust to taste.
  • 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 Adjust for spice preference.
  • 2 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
  • 2 cups shredded melty cheese (Colby, cheddar, pepper jack) Other cheese types can be used.
  • Green onions and cilantro for serving

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 425° F.
  2. In a large pot set over medium-high heat, add the ground meat and chopped onion. Season generously with salt and pepper. Brown the meat, breaking it up as it cooks until it's nice and crumbled.
Cooking
  1. Toss in the chopped poblano pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and cayenne. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until everything is fragrant.
  2. Mix in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and diced green chilies. Pour in your broth and add a couple of cups of water. Adjust the seasoning with more salt if needed.
  3. Bring the pot to a boil and add the pasta. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes until the pasta is al dente, stirring often to prevent sticking.
  4. Stir in the hot sauce, cream cheese, and half of the shredded cheese. Cook for a few more minutes until everything is luscious and creamy.
  5. Remove the pot from heat and top it with the remaining cheese. Pop it into the oven for about 5-10 minutes until that cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serving
  1. Serve it up in bowls and garnish with fresh green onions and cilantro for that extra flavor boost!

Notes

Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing in an airtight container. Can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or broth to maintain creaminess. Customize spice level and cheese types for personal preference.