The warm, cheesy aroma of Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac wafts through the kitchen, tempting everyone to gather around. It’s like a big hug in a bowl, with pasta swimming in rich, creamy cheese and zesty chili flavors that dance on your taste buds. For more inspiration, check out this dinner ideas recipe.
I remember the first time I made this dish for a family get-together. My aunt declared it “the best comfort food ever,” while my cousin practically licked the bowl clean. Now, it’s a staple for cozy nights and impromptu gatherings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free
- The flavor profile combines spicy and cheesy goodness that everyone loves
- Its vibrant colors make it a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach
- Perfect for casual family dinners or game-day celebrations, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your preferences
I fondly recall the laughter that echoed around the table when I served this dish, with bowls eagerly passed around and second helpings requested.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Elbow Macaroni: The classic choice for mac; it holds sauces well and cooks perfectly in a slow cooker.
Ground Beef or Turkey: Use lean meat for health but don’t skimp on flavor—seasoning is key.
Canned Diced Tomatoes: Opt for fire-roasted tomatoes for an extra depth of flavor that enhances the chili profile.
Canned Chili Beans: Use kidney or black beans for protein and texture; they add heartiness to your dish.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar melts beautifully and provides that iconic cheesy flavor we crave.
Onion and Garlic: Freshly chopped will elevate the flavor; sautéing them brings out their natural sweetness.
Chili Powder and Cumin: These spices give your chili mac that warm kick, so don’t skip them!
Beef Broth: A flavorful base that adds moisture while cooking; choose low-sodium versions if you watch salt intake.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by chopping your onion and mincing garlic. Get those aromas going to set the stage for deliciousness.
Brown Your Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, brown your ground beef or turkey until no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary but keep some for moisture.
Add Spices and Aromatics: Stir in diced onions and minced garlic into the meat mixture until they soften up nicely and smell heavenly—about 3-5 minutes should do it!
Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Transfer your meat mixture into a Crock Pot. Add elbow macaroni, diced tomatoes, chili beans, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Lid On & Cook Away!: Cover with the lid and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours until pasta is tender and all flavors meld beautifully.
Add Cheese & Serve**: About 15 minutes before serving, stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Dish up hot bowls of comfort!
Now you’re ready to enjoy this deliciously cheesy wonder! Each bite should be warm with indulgent flavors that wrap you in comfort like a favorite blanket on a chilly evening.
Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac is not just food; it’s an experience filled with warmth and connection—the perfect dish to share with loved ones while creating memories that last a lifetime. For more inspiration, check out this more main dish recipes recipe.
You Must Know
- This Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac is comfort food at its finest
- The creamy cheese blends perfectly with hearty chili, making each bite a warm hug
- Plus, it’s a set-it-and-forget-it kind of dish, so you can enjoy your day while it cooks!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results, layer your ingredients starting with the chili base, followed by uncooked pasta and cheese. This ensures even cooking and allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to personalize this recipe by adding cooked ground beef or turkey for extra protein. You can also swap cheddar for pepper jack for a spicy kick!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making this dish, consider using quality cheese for richer flavor
- Don’t skip the sautéing step; it enhances taste significantly
- Lastly, always taste as you go to adjust seasoning perfectly!
Cooking this delicious meal reminds me of family game nights where laughter mixed with cheesy goodness filled the air. Everyone asked for seconds, and I felt like a kitchen rock star!
FAQ
Can I use gluten-free pasta in this recipe?
Absolutely! Just adjust cook time as gluten-free pasta may require less time.
What toppings work well with Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac?
Sour cream, chopped green onions, or jalapeños make fantastic toppings!
How long does it take to cook in a slow cooker?
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until everything is tender.
Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac
- Total Time: 14 minute
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy cheddar cheese with zesty chili flavors and tender pasta. It’s a one-pot wonder that brings people together, making it perfect for cozy family dinners or game day gatherings. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this dish will warm your heart and fill your belly, all while simmering away in the slow cooker.
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
- Chop the onion and mince the garlic. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground meat until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in onions and garlic, cooking until softened (about 3-5 minutes).
- Transfer meat mixture to a Crock Pot and add macaroni, diced tomatoes, chili beans, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours until pasta is tender.
- About 15 minutes before serving, stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For added protein, consider mixing in cooked ground turkey or beef. Spice it up by using pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk if necessary.