Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac Recipe

If you are craving a comforting, hearty meal that practically cooks itself, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac Recipe. Imagine tender elbow macaroni, rich ground meat, zesty chili flavors, and gooey sharp cheddar cheese all mingling together after hours of slow cooking. This dish brings warmth in every bite and simplicity in every step, proving that slow cooking can elevate homey ingredients into a spectacularly satisfying dinner that the whole family will adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this recipe is a breeze, and each one plays a special role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. From the sharp cheddar that gives the dish its signature creaminess to the chili beans that add heartiness and depth, every component brings something delicious to the table.

• Elbow macaroni (1 cup): The classic pasta shape that holds sauce effortlessly and offers the perfect bite with every spoonful.
• Ground beef or turkey (1 lb): Adds savory richness—choose turkey for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor.
• Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz): Brings acidity and juiciness that brighten the chili base.
• Chili beans (1 can, 15 oz), drained and rinsed: Provides heartiness and a pleasant texture contrast while soaking up spices beautifully.
• Sharp cheddar cheese (1 cup, shredded): The creamy, melty finish that transforms this chili mac into a luscious comfort food dream.
• Onion (1 medium, chopped): Adds sweetness and a lovely aromatic foundation when sautéed.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings a savory punch and depth of flavor that wakes up the palate.
• Chili powder (2 tsp): Delivers the signature chili kick without overwhelming heat.
• Cumin (1 tsp): Offers earthiness and warmth, rounding out the spice profile.
• Low-sodium chicken broth (2 cups): Keeps the pasta moist and infuses the dish with subtle savory notes.
• Bell peppers (optional, diced): Introduce vibrant color and a mild sweetness for extra freshness.

How to Make Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start strong by chopping the onion, garlic, and bell peppers if you’re using them. Measuring everything out before you begin will keep the cooking process seamless and stress-free, letting you enjoy the fun part—the cooking!

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and garlic until they become translucent and fragrant—about 3 to 4 minutes. This step awakens their natural sweetness and forms a flavorful base for the chili mac.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Meat

Add your ground beef or turkey to the skillet and cook until it’s beautifully browned, usually 5 to 7 minutes. Browning adds a rich depth to the dish, so don’t rush past this step.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients in Crock Pot

Transfer your savory meat mixture into the crock pot. Next, add in the elbow macaroni, diced tomatoes with their juices, drained chili beans, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, and the optional diced bell peppers. Give everything a good stir to combine all those flavors right away.

Step 5: Slow Cook Until Perfect

Set the crock pot to low and let it cook for 4 to 6 hours, or if you’re short on time, use the high setting for 2 to 3 hours. Stir occasionally if you think about it—the longer cook time allows the flavors to marry perfectly and the macaroni to soften just right.

Step 6: Melt in the Cheddar Cheese

About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and stir it gently until it melts into a creamy, velvety layer that ties everything together in the most comforting way.

How to Serve Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac Recipe

Garnishes

Top your Chili Mac with fresh chopped green onions, a dollop of sour cream, or even some sliced jalapeños if you like things spicy. These add freshness and a pop of vibrant color that make the dish even more inviting.

Side Dishes

This recipe stands out as a meal on its own, but if you’d like to round out the table, serve it alongside a crisp green salad or some warm cornbread. The contrast in textures and flavors creates a well-balanced feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac Recipe in individual ramekins topped with extra cheese and broiled until bubbly and golden. It’s perfect for impressing guests or indulging in your favorite comfort food with a bit of flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld, making leftovers just as delicious as when freshly made.

Freezing

You can freeze this chili mac by placing portions in freezer-safe containers or bags. It freezes well for up to 2 months, so you’ve got ready-to-go comfort food whenever cravings strike.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to bring back that creamy cheesy goodness without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni works best for holding the sauce, you can substitute with small shells, rotini, or even mini penne. Just keep cooking times in mind as they may vary slightly.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Swap out the ground beef or turkey for plant-based crumbles or extra beans. You may want to add a bit of smoked paprika or additional chili powder to keep that flavorful kick.

How spicy is this Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac Recipe?

The spice level is mild to medium thanks to the chili powder and cumin. You can adjust the heat by adding cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños if you prefer more kick.

Can I prepare this without a crock pot?

Sure thing! You can cook this on the stovetop by simmering everything in a large pot, but keep a close eye to prevent sticking and add the cheese at the end off the heat for a melty finish.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Sharp cheddar cheese is ideal because of its robust flavor and excellent melting qualities. However, you can mix cheddar with Monterey Jack or even pepper jack for a subtle twist.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so wonderfully satisfying about coming home to a warm, cheesy bowl of chili mac that’s been slowly cooking to perfection. The Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac Recipe is truly a staple for cozy evenings, busy days, or whenever you crave a hug in a bowl. Don’t wait to whip this up and enjoy every comforting, flavorful spoonful with your loved ones.

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