Hearty Crockpot Chili Mac And Cheese Recipe: Cozy Comfort Magic

Crafting a delightful crockpot chili mac and cheese promises pure comfort on chilly evenings.

Hearty ingredients mingle together, creating a soul-warming dish that satisfies deep hunger.

cheese lovers understand the magic of melted goodness blending with spicy chili notes.

Slow cooking transforms simple pantry staples into an extraordinary meal that feels like a warm hug.

Pasta absorbs rich flavors while becoming deliciously tender in this one-pot wonder.

Minimal prep means maximum relaxation for busy home cooks seeking something special.

Grab a spoon and savor every creamy, zesty bite – this recipe will become your new weeknight favorite.

Tips for Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese

• Remove as much visible fat from ground beef as possible to prevent greasy chili mac and ensure a leaner dish.
• Adjust chili powder and cumin levels to match your heat preference, tasting and adding gradually for perfect flavor balance.
• Shred cheese fresh for smoother melting and richer taste compared to pre-shredded packaged varieties.
• Add macaroni later in cooking process to maintain ideal texture and prevent overcooking or becoming soggy.
• Replace ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives for lighter protein choices without sacrificing flavor.

Variations for Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese

• Vegetarian Chili Mac: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or black beans for a meatless version. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for more nutrition.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free macaroni and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free. Check broth and tomato sauce labels carefully.
• Spicy Southwest Remix: Swap chili powder with chipotle powder, add diced green chilies, and top with pepper jack cheese for an extra kick.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute macaroni with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Reduce beans and use more protein-rich ingredients to maintain the hearty feel.

Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese

• Comfort Zone Companions: Pair this hearty chili mac with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal that brightens the rich, cheesy dish.
• Topping Treasure Trove: Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips or crispy bacon bits on top to add delightful crunch and extra flavor layers that'll make every bite exciting.
• Bread Buddy Boost: Serve alongside warm cornbread or garlic toast to soak up the delicious sauce and complete this comforting meal with a satisfying side.
• Drink Pairing Delight: Complement the robust chili mac with a cold beer or refreshing iced tea that cuts through the creamy cheese and balances the spicy undertones.

Storage Tips for Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Transfer cooled chili mac to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freezes well for up to 3 months. Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn.
• Place portion in microwave-safe dish. Cover with damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly.
• Pour chili mac into saucepan. Add splash of beef broth or water to restore moisture. Warm over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until heated through and creamy.

FAQs

• Is this a kid-friendly meal?

Yes, this chili mac is perfect for children. The cheesy pasta and mild spices make it appealing to young eaters, and they’ll enjoy the hearty, comforting flavors.

• Can I make this recipe spicy?

Absolutely! Add more chili powder, include diced jalapenos, or use a spicy pepper jack cheese to increase the heat level according to your preference.

• Do I need to pre-cook the macaroni?

No, the uncooked macaroni will cook directly in the crockpot during the last 30-40 minutes, absorbing the delicious chili flavors and broth.

• Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Definitely! Ground turkey is a great lean protein substitute that works perfectly in this recipe and maintains the same delicious taste profile.

Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese Comfort Food

• Simplify Weeknight Dinners: Toss ingredients into the crockpot and walk away, creating a hearty meal with minimal hands-on preparation that saves precious cooking time.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: Combines the beloved flavors of chili and mac and cheese, guaranteed to satisfy both kids and adults with its rich, cheesy goodness.
• Budget-Friendly Family Feast: Uses affordable ingredients like ground beef, beans, and pasta to create a filling meal that stretches your grocery budget without compromising on taste.
• One-Pot Wonder: Eliminates multiple dishes and cleanup, making this recipe a stress-free solution for busy households craving a delicious, no-fuss dinner option.

Ingredients for Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese

• Ground Beef: A hearty protein that provides rich flavor and substance to the chili mac.
• Kidney Beans: A classic chili bean that adds texture and additional protein.

• Cheddar Cheese, Monterey Jack Cheese: Creamy cheeses that melt beautifully and create a smooth, tangy coating for the dish.
• Sour Cream: An optional topping that adds a cool, tangy contrast to the spicy chili.

• Onion, Garlic: Foundational ingredients that build a deep, savory flavor base for the chili.
• Chili Powder, Cumin: Warm spices that provide authentic chili flavor and depth.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the dish.

• Diced Tomatoes, Tomato Sauce: Provide acidity, moisture, and a classic chili flavor profile.
• Beef Broth: Adds additional liquid and enriches the overall taste of the dish.

• Macaroni: The starchy component that transforms this recipe into a comforting mac and cheese variation.

• Green Onions, Jalapenos: Fresh garnishes that add color, heat, and brightness to the final dish.

How to Prepare Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Sizzle Ground Beef

In a large skillet, cook ground beef with finely chopped onions and minced garlic.

Drain away any excess fat to keep the dish light and tasty.

Step 2: Spice Up the Mixture

• Chili powder
• Cumin
• Diced tomatoes
• Tomato sauce
• Kidney beans
• Salt
• Black pepper

Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to blend all the delicious flavors together.

Step 3: Transfer to Crockpot

Pour the beef mixture into the crockpot and add beef broth.

This will create a rich, hearty base for your meal.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Let the crockpot work its magic on low heat for 4-6 hours.

The longer it cooks, the more the flavors will develop and mingle.

Step 5: Add Pasta

During the last 30-40 minutes of cooking, stir in uncooked macaroni.

The pasta will absorb all the incredible flavors while becoming perfectly tender.

Step 6: Cheese It Up

Sprinkle in a combination of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.

Stir until the cheese melts completely, creating a creamy, gooey texture.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Dish out the chili mac while it’s piping hot.

• Sour cream
• Chopped green onions
• Sliced jalapenos

Enjoy your ultimate comfort food creation!

Crockpot Chili Mac And Cheese Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 9 reviews

• Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Hearty crockpot chili mac and cheese combines comfort classics for a rich, satisfying meal. Creamy pasta and spicy beef blend seamlessly, making you crave another comforting spoonful.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 1 pound ground beef

Vegetables:

• 1 medium onion
• 3 cloves garlic

Spices and Seasonings:

• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Canned and Liquid Ingredients:

• 1 (14.5 ounces) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (8 ounces) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 ounces) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup beef broth

Pasta and Cheese:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded monterey jack cheese

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Sauté ground beef with diced onions and minced garlic in a skillet until meat is thoroughly browned and crumbly. Eliminate excess grease through careful draining.
2. Incorporate aromatic spices including chili powder and cumin into the meat mixture. Blend in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, and season with salt and pepper. Allow flavors to meld for approximately 5 minutes.
3. Transfer seasoned meat mixture into the crockpot and introduce beef broth, ensuring ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Set crockpot to low temperature and allow contents to simmer and develop rich flavors for 4-6 hours, creating a robust base.
5. Approximately 30-40 minutes before serving, introduce uncooked macaroni directly into the crockpot. Stir gently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
6. Gradually sprinkle shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the surface. Stir until cheese melts completely, creating a creamy, luxurious texture.
7. Garnish with optional toppings such as fresh sour cream, chopped green onions, or sliced jalapeños for added zest and personalization. Serve piping hot for maximum enjoyment.

Notes

• Prevent Mushy Pasta by adding macaroni only in the last 30-40 minutes of cooking to maintain ideal texture and prevent overcooking.
• Boost Flavor Depth by using a combination of spices like smoked paprika or chipotle powder alongside chili powder for a more complex taste profile.
• Customize Dietary Needs by substituting ground beef with plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version or using lean ground turkey for a lower-fat option.
• Enhance Cheese Meltability by grating cheese fresh and letting it melt slowly, which creates a smoother and more luxurious sauce compared to pre-shredded varieties.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 hours (or 6 hours)
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 420 kcal
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 700 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Cholesterol: 65 mg