Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac Recipe
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.
- 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
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
- Prep Aromatics: Chop the onion and mince the garlic to prepare for sautéing, which will enhance the flavor of the dish.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
Find it online: https://dishedbydana.com/crock-pot-cheddar-chili-mac-recipe-2/
