Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the ultimate comfort food: One Pot Chili Pasta! This hearty dish combines the rich flavors of chili with the satisfying texture of pasta, all cooked in just one pot for easy cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Imagine the aroma of seasoned ground beef mingling with zesty tomatoes and kidney beans, all enveloped in a creamy, chili-infused sauce. With just 40 minutes from prep to plate, you'll have a delicious meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Don’t miss out on this culinary delight—let’s dive into the recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can kidney beans, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon, cooking until the meat is completely browned and no pink remains.
- Drain excess fat from the beef if necessary, leaving a small amount for flavor and cooking.
- Add chili powder, salt, and pepper to the ground beef, stirring to coat the meat evenly with the spices.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, drained kidney beans, and beef broth. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Add the uncooked elbow macaroni directly into the skillet, ensuring the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and cover the skillet with a lid.
- Simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Cook until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, creating a thick and creamy chili pasta consistency.
- Remove from heat and let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Meat: While ground beef is the classic choice, feel free to substitute with ground turkey or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian version.
- Spice It Up: If you love heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to elevate the flavor profile of your chili pasta.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps the sauce thicken and enhances the overall flavor.
- Garnish for Greatness: Elevate your dish with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh herbs such as cilantro or green onions for an extra burst of flavor.
- Make It a Meal: Pair your One Pot Chili Pasta with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to round out your meal and impress your guests.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 85mg
