Hearty Crockpot Chili Mac And Cheese Recipe: Cozy Comfort Magic

Comfort food reaches new heights with this creamy crockpot chili mac and cheese that blends hearty flavors into one irresistible dish.

Melted cheese and tender pasta combine with robust chili seasonings for a meal that satisfies deep hunger.

Slow cooking transforms simple ingredients into a rich, indulgent experience that warms you from the inside out.

The magic happens when classic mac and cheese meets zesty chili in a single pot.

Home cooks love how easily this recipe comes together with minimal effort and maximum taste.

Each spoonful promises a perfect balance of cheesy goodness and spicy excitement.

Let this crowd-pleasing recipe become your new go-to meal for cozy nights and weekend gatherings.

FAQs

• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese is perfect for meal prep. You can store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights.

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free macaroni and ensure your broth and other ingredients are certified gluten-free to adapt this recipe for gluten-sensitive diets.

• How spicy is this chili mac?

The recipe has a mild to moderate spice level. If you prefer more heat, add extra chili powder or include diced jalapeños during cooking. For less spice, reduce the chili powder amount.

Crockpot Chili Mac And Cheese: Cozy Bowl Alert

• Slow-Cook Simplicity: Toss ingredients into the crockpot and let it work its magic with minimal hands-on preparation, perfect for busy home cooks seeking a delicious meal without constant monitoring.
• Comfort Food Champion: Combines two beloved classics—chili and mac and cheese—into one hearty, satisfying dish that delivers rich flavors and creamy texture guaranteed to please both kids and adults.
• Versatile Meal Maker: Easily adaptable for different dietary preferences by swapping ground beef for turkey, using plant-based cheese, or adding extra vegetables to boost nutrition without compromising taste.
• One-Pot Wonder: Eliminates multiple cooking steps and dirty dishes, making cleanup a breeze while providing a complete meal with protein, beans, and pasta in a single convenient recipe.

Chili Mac & Cheese Shopping List

• Ground Beef: A hearty meat that provides rich flavor and protein to the chili mac.

• Kidney Beans, Black Beans: Protein-packed legumes that add texture and nutrition to the dish.
• Diced Tomatoes, Tomato Sauce: Acidic ingredients that create a robust base for the chili.

• Onion, Garlic: Foundational vegetables that build a deep, savory flavor profile.
• Chili Powder, Cumin, Paprika: Warming spices that give the chili its signature zesty taste.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

• Beef Broth: A flavorful liquid that helps cook and tenderize the ingredients.

• Macaroni: Classic pasta that adds comfort and substance to the meal.
• Cheddar Cheese, Monterey Jack Cheese: Melty cheeses that create a creamy, rich texture.

• Sour Cream, Green Onions, Extra Cheese: Toppings that add freshness, creaminess, and additional flavor.

Dump, Stir, Wait – Chili Mac For Busy Nights

Step 1: Brown and Sauté Beef

Heat a skillet over medium heat.

Crumble ground beef into the pan and cook until it turns rich brown.

Add finely chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until the vegetables become soft and fragrant.

Step 2: Combine Flavor Base in Crockpot

Transfer the beef mixture to the crockpot.

• Kidney beans
• Black beans
• Diced tomatoes
• Tomato sauce
• Chili powder
• Ground cumin
• Paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper

Step 3: Slow Cook the Chili

Pour beef broth into the crockpot.

Cover and cook on low setting for 6-7 hours or on high setting for 3-4 hours, allowing flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Add Pasta and Cook

Approximately 30 minutes before serving, stir uncooked macaroni into the chili.

Continue cooking until pasta becomes tender and absorbs the delicious liquid.

Step 5: Melt Cheese and Finish

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Monterey Jack cheese

Stir until the cheeses completely melt and create a creamy, luxurious texture.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the hot chili mac and cheese into bowls.

Top with optional garnishes like sour cream, chopped green onions, or additional cheese for extra indulgence.

Creamy Chili Mac: Kitchen Tricks That Work

• Ensure ground beef is thoroughly browned to develop rich, deep flavors and prevent excess grease in the final dish.
• Swap kidney and black beans with pinto or white beans for different texture and taste preferences.
• Add macaroni only in the last 30 minutes to prevent overcooking and maintain ideal pasta texture.
• Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded for smoother, more creamy melting results.
• Adjust chili powder and cumin quantities to make the dish mild or extra spicy according to personal taste.

Chili Mac With A Kick: Remix Options

• Vegetarian Chili Mac: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or diced mushrooms for a hearty meatless version.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free macaroni and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free for celiac-friendly meal.
• Spicy Southwest Remix: Add diced green chilies, jalapeños, and swap some chili powder for chipotle powder to create a fiery southwestern flavor profile.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute macaroni with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a lower-carbohydrate meal that keeps the cheesy chili essence.

Hearty Bowls: Ways To Serve Chili Mac

• Southwestern Fiesta Plating: Top with crispy tortilla strips, fresh cilantro, and a zesty lime wedge for a vibrant Mexican-inspired presentation that adds crunch and brightness.
• Comfort Food Companions: Pair with warm cornbread or a simple green salad to balance the rich, hearty chili mac and create a complete meal that satisfies every comfort food craving.
• Game Day Crowd-Pleaser: Serve in individual bread bowls or small cast-iron skillets for a fun, shareable appetizer that's perfect for sports gatherings or casual family dinners.
• Topping Adventure: Customize with additional garnishes like pickled jalapeños, diced avocado, or crushed corn chips to let each person create their own flavor combination.

Storing Leftover Chili Mac – Stay Creamy!

• Store leftover chili mac in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
• Transfer cooled chili mac to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags. Freeze for up to 3 months, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Place single serving in microwave-safe dish, add splash of broth or water to prevent drying. Cover and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until heated through.
• Pour chili mac into skillet, add small amount of broth or water. Warm over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating. Add extra cheese if desired for restored creaminess.

Crockpot Chili Mac And Cheese Recipe

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4.9 from 9 reviews

• Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Comfort meets convenience in this irresistible Chili Mac and Cheese, blending hearty flavors with creamy goodness. Slow-cooker magic turns simple ingredients into a soul-warming meal that welcomes everyone to the table with open arms.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 (15 ounces) can kidney beans
• 1 (15 ounces) can black beans

Base and Flavor Ingredients:

• 1 (15 ounces) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounces) can tomato sauce
• 1 ½ cups beef broth
• 1 small onion
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 (1 ounce) packet chili seasoning
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Pasta and Cheese:

• 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup cream cheese

Optional Garnish:

• Sliced green onions
• Sour cream
• Cilantro

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Instructions

1. Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until no longer pink, incorporating diced onion and minced garlic during the last few minutes of cooking.
2. Transfer the beef mixture to the crockpot, combining it with kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and a blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour beef broth into the crockpot, ensuring all ingredients are well mixed, then cover and slow cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
4. Approximately 30 minutes before serving, add uncooked macaroni to the crockpot, stirring gently to distribute evenly throughout the mixture.
5. Continue cooking until pasta reaches al dente consistency, typically 25-30 minutes on high setting.
6. Remove lid and sprinkle shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses over the top, stirring until completely melted and creating a smooth, creamy texture.
7. Allow the chili mac to rest for 5-10 minutes to thicken slightly before serving.
8. Garnish with optional toppings like sour cream, chopped green onions, or additional shredded cheese for extra flavor and presentation.

Notes

• Enhance flavor by sautéing ground beef with a splash of Worcestershire sauce for deeper umami notes.
• Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter, leaner protein option that keeps the dish versatile.
• Prevent mushy pasta by adding macaroni during the last 30-40 minutes of cooking, ensuring perfectly al dente texture.
• Reduce sodium by using low-sodium broth and canned beans, making this hearty meal more heart-friendly without sacrificing taste.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 hours
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 480 kcal
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 780 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 42 g
• Fiber: 8 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 65 mg