If you’re craving a hearty, cheesy, and flavor-packed meal that comes together in no time, Instant Pot Chili Mac is your answer. This recipe combines the best of both worlds: the spicy, savory richness of chili and the creamy, comforting appeal of macaroni and cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners or when you need to feed a crowd, this one-pot wonder is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Flavorful Dish
- Quick and Easy . Ready in under 30 minutes with the convenience of the Instant Pot.
- One-Pot Meal . Minimal cleanup for maximum enjoyment.
- Customizable . Add your favorite toppings and adjust the spice level to your liking.
- Family-Friendly . A dish that kids and adults alike will adore.
With its rich, bold flavors and creamy texture, Instant Pot Chili Mac is a comfort food classic that’s perfect for any occasion. Pair it with a crisp salad or enjoy it on its own for a satisfying meal.
What Does Chili Mac Taste Like?
Chili Mac is the ultimate fusion dish that combines the robust flavors of chili with the creamy indulgence of mac and cheese.
It’s filling, delicious, and packed with protein, making it a versatile meal that works for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep. Plus, the Instant Pot makes it quick and easy to prepare without sacrificing flavor.
What Is The Difference Between Chili Mac And Goulash?
Chili Mac and Goulash are both hearty, comforting dishes that combine pasta with a flavorful, saucy base, but they differ in origin, ingredients, and flavor profiles:
- Chili Mac is a cheesy, chili-inspired pasta dish with bold, spicy flavors, perfect for lovers of chili and mac and cheese.
- Goulash (especially American Goulash) is a simpler, tomato-based pasta dish with a milder flavor profile and a history tied to Hungarian cuisine.
While they share similarities as hearty one-pot meals, their seasonings, origins, and textures set them apart. Both are excellent choices for comforting, easy-to-make meals!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Ground Beef - Lean ground beef works best, but you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Onion - Diced for a flavorful base.
- Garlic - Minced to enhance the savory flavors.
- Chili Powder - Adds that classic chili kick.
- Cumin - For a warm, earthy flavor.
- Paprika - A touch of smokiness to deepen the taste.
- Diced Tomatoes - Canned and undrained for added moisture and flavor.
- Chili Beans - For added protein and texture.
- Tomato Sauce - Helps create a rich and hearty base.
- Beef Broth - Adds depth and keeps the pasta from sticking.
- Elbow Macaroni - The star of the dish, cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot.
- Cheddar Cheese - Shredded for creamy, melty goodness.
- Salt and Pepper - To taste.
How To Make Chili Mac
- Sauté the Aromatics . Set the Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess grease if necessary. Stir in diced onion and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the Spices and Liquids . Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the beef evenly. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir well to combine.
- Add the Pasta . Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni and canned beans, ensuring it is fully submerged in the liquid.
- Pressure Cook . Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” for 5 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure. Carefully open the lid.
- Stir in the Cheese . Switch to the “Sauté” function. Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
- Serve and Enjoy . Ladle the chili mac into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes like green onions, sour cream, or extra cheese.
Tips And Tricks
Making Instant Pot Chili Mac is straightforward, but these tips will help you achieve the best results:
- Use Lean Meat . Lean ground beef reduces grease, making the dish less heavy.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta . Follow the recommended cooking time to prevent mushy pasta.
- Shred Your Own Cheese . Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that can affect the soup’s texture. Freshly shredded cheese melts smoother and tastes better.
- Adjust the Spice Level . Add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat, or reduce the spices for a milder flavor.
- Deglaze the Pot . After sautéing, scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to prevent the “Burn” warning.
Variations
Here’s a list of variations for Instant Pot Chili Mac to suit different tastes and dietary needs:
- Vegetarian- Substitute ground beef with plant-based meat or additional beans, such as black beans or kidney beans.
- Spicy- Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Overload - Mix in a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or Gouda for extra creaminess.
- Mexican-Inspired- Add corn, black beans, and a sprinkle of cilantro for a Tex-Mex twist.
- Gluten-Free- Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
What To Eat With Chili Mac
While Instant Pot Chili Mac is a complete meal on its own, pairing it with the right sides can elevate the experience:
- Cornbread - A slice of warm, buttery cornbread complements the bold flavors.
- Salad - A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds freshness.
- Tortilla Chips - Perfect for scooping up every cheesy bite.
- Garlic Bread - Adds a touch of indulgence and pairs beautifully with the rich, saucy dish.
How Long Does It Last?
Instant Pot Chili Mac is a great dish to make ahead or enjoy as leftovers. When stored properly in an airtight container, it will last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating is simple—just warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to restore its creamy consistency.
Can You Freeze It?
For longer storage, Chili Mac can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container, leaving a little space for expansion.
To enjoy frozen Chili Mac, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
More Easy Instant Pot Recipes
- Instant Pot Ground Beef Casserole
- Beef Curry
- Instant Pot Butter Chicken
- Thai Basil Beef
- Dak Makhani
Chili Mac Recipe | Easy One Pot Chili Mac
Ingredients
- ▢ 1 pound Ground Beef
- ▢ 1 Onion , diced
- ▢ 3 cloves Garlic , minced
- ▢ 2 tbsp Chili Powder
- ▢ 1 tbsp Cumin
- ▢ 1 tsp Paprika
- ▢ 29 ounces Diced Tomatoes
- ▢ 2 ounces Tomato Sauce
- ▢ 2 cups Beef Broth
- ▢ 2 cups Elbow Macaroni
- ▢ 2 cups Cheddar Cheese , shredded
- ▢ 15 ounces Chili Beans , drained
- ▢ Kosher Salt , to taste
- ▢ Ground Black Pepper , to taste
- ▢ Green Onion , diced, for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics . Set the Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess grease if necessary. Stir in diced onion and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the Spices and Liquids . Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the beef evenly. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir well to combine.
- Add the Pasta . Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni, ensuring it is fully submerged in the liquid.
- Pressure Cook . Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” for 5 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure. Carefully open the lid.
- Stir in the Cheese . Switch to the “Sauté” function. Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
- Serve and Enjoy . Ladle the chili mac into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes like green onions, sour cream, or extra cheese.
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Chili Mac Recipe | Easy One Pot Chili Mac
Ingredients
- 1 pound Ground Beef
- 1 Onion diced
- 3 cloves Garlic minced
- 2 tbsp Chili Powder
- 1 tbsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 29 ounces Diced Tomatoes
- 2 ounces Tomato Sauce
- 2 cups Beef Broth
- 2 cups Elbow Macaroni
- 2 cups Cheddar Cheese shredded
- 15 ounces Chili Beans drained
- Kosher Salt to taste
- Ground Black Pepper to taste
- Green Onion diced, for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics . Set the Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess grease if necessary. Stir in diced onion and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the Spices and Liquids . Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the beef evenly. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir well to combine.
- Add the Pasta . Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni, ensuring it is fully submerged in the liquid.
- Pressure Cook . Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” for 5 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure. Carefully open the lid.
- Stir in the Cheese . Switch to the “Sauté” function. Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
- Serve and Enjoy . Ladle the chili mac into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes like green onions, sour cream, or extra cheese.
Chili Mac Recipe | Easy One Pot Chili Mac https://twosleevers.com/chili-mac-recipe/
Looking for a way to elevate your pizza nights? Puff Pastry Pizza is a game-changer! Combining the flaky, buttery layers of puff pastry with your favorite pizza toppings creates a mouthwatering treat that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Perfect Pizza
- Quick and Easy. With store-bought puff pastry, this pizza comes together in no time.
- Customizable . Add your favorite toppings to make it uniquely yours.
- Crispy and Flaky . The puff pastry base gives you a light and crispy crust unlike any traditional pizza.
- Perfect for Any Occasion . Whether it’s an appetizer, snack, or main course, it’s always a hit.
What Does Puff Pastry Pizza Taste Like?
Puff pastry creates a unique pizza crust that’s light, flaky, and buttery. It pairs beautifully with savory toppings, creating a delightful contrast to traditional pizza dough. Whether you’re a fan of classic Margherita or adventurous flavors, puff pastry is a versatile base that’s worth trying.
Why Is My Puff Pastry Pizza Soggy?
A soggy puff pastry pizza can be disappointing, but it’s a common issue caused by excess moisture or improper handling. Here are the main reasons why it might turn out soggy and tips to fix the problem:
- Overloading with Sauce . Applying too much sauce can saturate the puff pastry, preventing it from crisping up during baking.
- Too Many Toppings . Overloading the pizza with toppings adds weight and moisture, which can make the pastry soggy.
- Puff Pastry Not Thawed Properly . If the puff pastry isn’t thawed correctly, it can become sticky and bake unevenly, leading to a soggy texture.
By addressing these common issues and following the solutions, you can ensure your puff pastry pizza is perfectly flaky, crispy, and delicious every time!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Puff Pastry Sheets - Store-bought or homemade—thawed according to package instructions.
- Pizza Sauce - Your favorite marinara or pizza sauce.
- Cheese - Mozzarella, Parmesan, or a blend for that gooey, melty texture.
- Toppings - Pepperoni, olives, mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, or anything you love on your pizza.
- Olive Oil - For brushing the edges to enhance the golden crust.
- Dried Oregano or Basil - For added flavor.
How To Make Puff Pastry Pizza
- Prepare the Puff Pastry Base . Using a knife, score a ½-inch border around the edges. Be careful not to cut all the way through. This creates a crust that puffs up as it bakes.
- Add the Sauce . Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce within the scored border, leaving the edges uncovered for a crispy crust.
- Top It Off . Sprinkle your choice of cheese evenly over the sauce. Add your desired toppings, distributing them evenly across the pizza.
- Bake to Perfection . Brush the edges of the puff pastry with olive oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the pastry is golden and puffed, and the cheese is bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve . Sprinkle dried oregano or fresh basil leaves on top before serving. Slice and enjoy!
Tips And Tricks
Crafting the perfect puff pastry pizza is as much about technique as it is about flavor. With these tips and tricks, you’ll achieve a crispy, flaky crust and a deliciously balanced pizza every time:
- Keep the Puff Pastry Cold . For maximum flakiness, work with cold puff pastry. If it becomes too soft, chill it in the fridge for a few minutes before assembling your pizza.
- Prevent Soggy Crust . Avoid overloading the pizza with sauce and toppings. A thin, even layer works best.
- Experiment with Shapes . Try making mini puff pastry pizzas for individual servings, perfect for parties or snacks.
- Reheat Properly . Reheat leftovers in an oven or air fryer to maintain the crisp texture.
Variations
Puff pastry pizza is incredibly versatile, allowing you to explore endless topping combinations and flavor profiles. Whether you prefer classic pizza flavors or want to experiment with unique twists, here are some delicious variations to inspire your next creation:
- Margherita Style - Use fresh mozzarella, sliced tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves.
- Meat Lover’s - Add cooked sausage, bacon bits, and pepperoni for a hearty option.
- Vegetarian - Load up on mushrooms, spinach, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers.
- Breakfast Pizza - Swap pizza sauce for scrambled eggs and add breakfast toppings like bacon and cheddar.
What To Eat With Puff Pastry Pizza
Puff pastry pizza is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Whether you’re serving it as a main course, appetizer, or snack, these options will enhance your meal and create a well-rounded dining experience.
- Salad - A crisp Caesar salad or a simple mixed green salad pairs perfectly.
- Dipping Sauces - Ranch , garlic butter, or spicy marinara complement the flavors.
- Soup - A bowl of tomato soup adds a comforting touch to the meal.
How Long Does It Last?
Puff pastry pizza is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when the crust is at its flakiest and the cheese is perfectly melty. However, if you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
While refrigeration helps preserve the flavors and prevent spoilage, the puff pastry may lose some of its crispiness as it absorbs moisture over time.
To bring back its flaky texture, reheat the pizza in an oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, avoiding the microwave, which tends to make the crust soggy.
Can You Freeze It?
For longer storage, you can freeze assembled but unbaked puff pastry pizza for up to 2 months, baking it directly from frozen when you’re ready to enjoy.
This method ensures you can always have a quick and delicious treat on hand without compromising the quality.
More Of Our Best Pizza Recipes
- Keto Pizza Casserole
- Low Carb Pizza
- Buffalo Chicken Pizza
- Mexican Pizza
- Chicken Alfredo Pizza
- French Bread Pizza
- Air Fryer Pizza Fries
Watch The Video
Puff Pastry Pizza Recipe | Easy 30 Minute Meal
Ingredients
- ▢ 1 sheet Prepared Puff Pastry
- ▢ 1/2 cup Pizza Sauce
- ▢ 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese
- ▢ 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese
- ▢ 24 Pepperoni Slices
- ▢ 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- ▢ 1 tsp Oregano
Instructions
- Prepare the Puff Pastry Base . Using a knife, score a ½-inch border around the edges. Be careful not to cut all the way through. This creates a crust that puffs up as it bakes.
- Add the Sauce . Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce within the scored border, leaving the edges uncovered for a crispy crust.
- Top It Off . Sprinkle your choice of cheese evenly over the sauce. Add your desired toppings, distributing them evenly across the pizza.
- Bake to Perfection . Brush the edges of the puff pastry with olive oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the pastry is golden and puffed, and the cheese is bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve . Sprinkle dried oregano or fresh basil leaves on top before serving. Slice and enjoy!
