Amazing Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac for Ultimate Comfort

Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac is the perfect dish that combines warm, gooey cheese and hearty pasta with a spicy kick. Imagine a steaming bowl of creamy goodness that hugs you like your favorite sweater on a chilly day. spicy chicken pasta option tasty crockpot meatballs The aroma wafts through your kitchen, promising comfort and satisfaction with every bite. For more inspiration, check out this easy chicken enchiladas recipe.

this Recipe for Later

Picture this: It’s a rainy Sunday afternoon, and you’re curled up on the couch binge-watching your favorite show. Suddenly, hunger strikes! You want something delicious but don’t want to spend hours cooking. Enter the Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac, your culinary superhero that swoops in to save the day with minimal effort. This dish is not just food; it’s an experience bursting with flavor, ideal for cozy nights or family gatherings.

Ingredients for Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac:

• Macaroni Pasta: Use small elbow macaroni for that classic texture, but feel free to experiment with other shapes if you’re feeling adventurous.

• Ground Beef: Lean ground beef works best; it adds protein and depth to the dish without excess grease.

• Chili Beans: Canned chili beans bring flavor and texture—choose mild or spicy based on your preference.

• Diced Tomatoes: Opt for canned diced tomatoes with chilies for an extra punch of flavor.

• Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar melts beautifully, giving the mac its signature gooeyness.

• Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness and aroma—don’t skip this!

• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances the overall flavor profile; use as much as you like.

• Chili Powder: A must-have spice that gives your dish its signature chili flavor—adjust according to taste.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac:

Step 1: Brown the Meat

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat and set aside. This step builds a rich foundation for our mac.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, toss in diced onions and minced garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant—around three minutes should do the trick.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients

In your trusty crock pot, combine cooked macaroni pasta, browned meat, sautéed onions and garlic, chili beans, diced tomatoes (with their juices), chili powder, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 4: Slow Cook

Cover your crock pot and cook on low for about four hours or high for two hours. Stir occasionally if possible—this helps meld those flavors together like they were meant to be best friends!

Step 5: Add Remaining Cheese

About ten minutes before serving, sprinkle in the remaining cheddar cheese over top of your mac mixture. smoked sausage and cheesy potatoes Cover again until it melts into cheesy perfection.

Step 6: Serve Up

Scoop generous portions into bowls and watch everyone’s eyes light up! A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or green onions adds a nice touch if you want to get fancy.

Now grab your fork and dig in! You’ve just made an unforgettable Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds—even thirds! Enjoy each bite as you relish in knowing you created something spectacular without breaking a sweat in the kitchen.

Perfecting Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac Cooking Process

Start by browning your ground beef or turkey in a skillet while you chop your onions and bell peppers. Then, mix everything in the crock pot, layering in the pasta last for even cooking.

Add Your Touch to Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac

Feel free to swap out the cheddar cheese for pepper jack for a spicy kick, or toss in some beans for added protein. Don’t forget to experiment with your favorite spices!

Storing & Reheating Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through, adding a splash of water if necessary.

Sometimes, I whip up this dish after my kids’ soccer games. Their smiles when they dive into this cheesy goodness always brighten my day!

FAQs About Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac

What is Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac?

Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the flavors of chili with creamy cheddar cheese and macaroni. This one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights, as you can prepare it effortlessly in a slow cooker. hearty slow cooker casserole The combination of tender pasta, spicy chili, and melted cheese creates a comforting dish that both kids and adults love. Plus, the slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite rich and satisfying.

How long does it take to cook Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac?

Cooking Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac typically takes around 3 to 4 hours on high heat or 6 to 8 hours on low heat. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to deepen and the pasta to absorb the chili’s richness. It’s essential to check for doneness periodically, especially if you prefer your macaroni al dente. Just ensure that the cheese is fully melted before serving for the best texture and flavor experience. For more inspiration, check out this Buffalo chicken mac and cheese recipe.

Can I customize my Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac?

Absolutely! One of the great things about Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables like bell peppers or corn. For protein options, consider including ground turkey or black beans for extra texture. Additionally, you can adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder or using mild cheese if you prefer less heat. Your creativity can make this dish uniquely yours!

What should I serve with Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac?

Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac pairs well with various sides that complement its bold flavors. Consider serving it with a fresh garden salad for a refreshing contrast or garlic bread for added indulgence. For a complete meal, top it with sour cream, chopped green onions, or jalapeños to enhance the taste further. These sides will elevate your dining experience and create a satisfying meal everyone will enjoy.

Conclusion for Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac

In summary, Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac is an easy-to-make, comforting dish perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite. The ability to customize this recipe allows you to tailor it to your preferences while enjoying the convenience of slow cooking. Don’t hesitate to try out different ingredients and make it your own! Enjoy this delightful meal at your next gathering or cozy night in!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Sophia
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac is the ultimate comfort food that effortlessly combines creamy cheddar cheese, savory chili, and tender macaroni pasta. This one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, requiring minimal prep time but delivering maximum flavor. Just set it in your slow cooker and enjoy a hearty dish that warms you from the inside out. Each bite promises a delightful mix of textures and tastes that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 can (15 oz) chili beans, drained
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with chilies
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp chili powder

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat; drain excess fat.
2. Sauté the onions and garlic in the same skillet until softened.
3. In a crock pot, combine cooked macaroni, browned beef, sautéed onions and garlic, chili beans, diced tomatoes (with juices), chili powder, and half of the cheddar cheese.
4. Cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours. Stir occasionally.
5. About 10 minutes before serving, add remaining cheddar cheese on top and cover until melted.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 960mg
• Fat: 19g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 39g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 80mg