Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac Recipe

Introduction

Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy cheddar cheese with zesty chili flavors and tender pasta. This one-pot slow cooker meal is perfect for cozy family dinners or game day gatherings, offering rich flavors with minimal prep.

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 lb ground beef or turkey
• 1 (14.5 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can chili beans (kidney or black)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Chop the onion and mince the garlic. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey until no longer pink. Drain excess fat if desired.
2. Step 2: Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic to the meat. Cook for about 3-5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Step 3: Transfer the meat mixture into the Crock Pot. Add elbow macaroni, canned diced tomatoes, chili beans, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Step 4: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the pasta is tender and flavors meld together.
5. Step 5: About 15 minutes before serving, stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Serve hot and enjoy your cheesy chili mac!

Tips & Variations

• For extra protein, add additional cooked ground beef or turkey before cooking.
• Swap sharp cheddar for pepper jack cheese to add a spicy kick.
• Sautéing the onion and garlic before adding enhances the dish’s flavor significantly.
• Use fire-roasted diced tomatoes for a deeper chili flavor.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free pasta in this recipe?

Absolutely! Just keep in mind that gluten-free pasta may require less cooking time, so adjust accordingly.

What toppings work well with Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac?

Sour cream, chopped green onions, and sliced jalapeños all make fantastic toppings that complement the dish nicely.

Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 125 reviews

Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy sharp cheddar cheese with zesty chili flavors, tender elbow macaroni, and a hearty blend of ground meat and beans. This slow-cooker recipe offers a one-pot, set-it-and-forget-it meal that is perfect for cozy family dinners or game day gatherings, delivering warm, indulgent flavors with minimal prep.

• Author: Dana
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-6 hours
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta and Protein

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 lb ground beef or turkey

Vegetables and Aromatics

• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Canned Goods

• 1 (14.5 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can chili beans (kidney or black beans)

Cheese

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Liquids and Seasonings

• 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prep Aromatics: Chop the onion and mince the garlic to prepare for sautéing, which will enhance the flavor of the dish.
2. Brown Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey until no longer pink. Drain excess fat, retaining a bit for moisture.
3. Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the browned meat in the skillet. Cook for about 3-5 minutes until they soften and release their fragrant aroma, boosting flavor complexity.
4. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Transfer the meat, onions, and garlic mixture into the Crock Pot. Add uncooked elbow macaroni, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, chili beans, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
5. Slow Cook: Cover with the lid and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the pasta is tender and all flavors have melded beautifully.
6. Add Cheese and Serve: Approximately 15 minutes before serving, stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and integrated into the dish. Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy, comforting meal.

Notes

• This dish is a perfect comfort food with a creamy cheesy texture and hearty chili flavor.
• Layer ingredients by adding the chili base first, then pasta, and finally cheese to allow even cooking and optimal flavor melding.
• Use quality sharp cheddar cheese for richer flavor impact.
• Don’t skip sautéing the aromatics; it significantly enhances the depth of flavor.
• Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process for best results.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed for creaminess.
• You can personalize the recipe by using pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick or adding additional cooked ground meat for extra protein.

Keywords: cheddar cheese, chili mac, comfort food, crock pot, family dinner, pasta recipe, slow cooker, hearty, one-pot meal