Warm and Comforting Meal
There’s something truly special about the aroma of melted cheese and spices that fills the kitchen while this Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac is cooking. I remember the first time I made it for my family; the boys rushed home, their eyes lighting up at the delicious scent wafting through the house. As we gathered around the table with bowls in hand, laughter echoed, and we enjoyed every creamy, cheesy bite together. This recipe matters because it’s quick, easy, and brings everyone closer. What’s truly special about this Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac is how it combines the comforting flavors of chili with cheesy pasta, making it a hit for both kids and adults alike.
Why Make This Recipe
Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac is a fantastic weeknight dinner option. It’s simple to prepare, letting you spend more time with loved ones and less time in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal that’s perfect for leftovers. With hearty ingredients and a deliciously cheesy taste, this dish is sure to satisfy your hunger and warm your heart.
How to Make Delicious and Easy Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) chili beans, undrained
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat and add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft.
- Transfer the beef mixture into a large crock pot.
- Stir in the chili beans, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, elbow macaroni, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- About 20 minutes before serving, stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and bubbly.
How to Serve Delicious and Easy Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac
Serve your Cheddar Chili Mac hot from the crock pot. It’s perfect with a sprinkle of extra cheese on top and some fresh parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also add sour cream or avocado slices for extra creaminess.
How to Store Delicious and Easy Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac
Let the leftover chili mac cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it in individual portions for a quick meal later. Just make sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to Make Delicious and Easy Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac
- For added flavor, use a mix of cheeses or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Don’t overcook the macaroni; it will continue to cook while it sits in the crock pot.
- Customize your chili mac by adding chopped bell peppers or corn for more texture.
Variation
Feel free to swap out the ground beef for turkey or a plant-based meat substitute to cater to different dietary preferences. You can also use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses for a unique flavor.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Omit the ground beef and include more beans and veggies for a hearty vegetarian version.
How can I make this spicier?
Add more chili powder or some diced jalapeños to give it a spicy kick.
PrintCrock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac
A comforting one-pot meal combining the flavors of chili with cheesy pasta, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 360 minutes
- Total Time: 375 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Crock Pot
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Beef, Comfort Food
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) chili beans, undrained
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef over medium heat in a skillet. Drain excess fat and add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft.
- Transfer the beef mixture into a large crock pot.
- Stir in the chili beans, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, elbow macaroni, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Cook on low for 300 minutes or on high for 240 minutes.
- Stir in the cheddar cheese about 20 minutes before serving until melted and bubbly.
Notes
For added flavor, use a mix of cheeses or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
