Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac

As the aroma of bubbling cheese and savory beef fills the kitchen, you can’t help but feel cozy and content. This delicious and easy Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac recipe is something I turn to on busy weeknights when comfort food is a must. I remember the first time I made it; it brought my family together, and we savored every bite while sharing stories from our day. The blend of cheesy pasta and hearty chili makes this dish special. It’s not just a meal; it’s a way to connect and create lasting memories.

Why Make This Recipe

This Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac is perfect for many reasons. It’s simple to prepare, which means you can spend more time with loved ones instead of being stuck in the kitchen. The ingredients are easy to find, and the cooking process is forgiving, making it great for cooks of all skill levels. Plus, the blend of flavors—both cheesy and spicy—delivers a satisfying experience that many will enjoy.

How to Make Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cans (15 oz each) chili (with or without beans)
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. In a skillet, brown the ground beef and onion over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
2. Transfer the beef and onion mixture to the crock pot.
3. Add the two cans of chili and beef broth to the pot.
4. Stir in the elbow macaroni, ensuring it’s well distributed.
5. Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the pasta is tender.
6. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Let it melt and combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

How to Serve Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac

Serve this dish hot right from the crock pot. It’s perfect to enjoy as is or you can add garnishes like sour cream, chopped green onions, or extra shredded cheese for added flavor. Pair it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

How to Store Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, you can add a splash of beef broth to restore creaminess, as the macaroni tends to absorb moisture as it sits.

Tips to Make Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac

• For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños to the beef while cooking.
• You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or a meat alternative for a healthier option.
• If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a little cream cheese before serving.

Variation

To mix things up, you can add vegetables like bell peppers or corn to the mix. This adds variety and boosts nutrition, making your chili mac even more satisfying.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of pasta? Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like; just keep an eye on cooking times as they may vary.

2. Is it possible to make this recipe without meat? Absolutely! You can skip the meat and use a vegetarian chili instead for a meatless option.

3. Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It should be good for up to three months in the freezer.

Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac

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A comforting and easy Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac perfect for busy weeknights, blending cheesy pasta and hearty chili for a satisfying family meal.

• Author: hannah
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 210 minutes
• Total Time: 225 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Meat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cans (15 oz each) chili (with or without beans)
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Brown the ground beef and onion over medium heat in a skillet. Drain any excess fat.
2. Transfer the beef and onion mixture to the crock pot.
3. Add the two cans of chili and beef broth to the pot.
4. Stir in the elbow macaroni, ensuring it’s well distributed.
5. Cover and cook on low for 180 to 240 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
6. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese about 30 minutes before serving. Let it melt and combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Notes

For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños to the beef while cooking. Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or a meat alternative for a healthier option. Stir in a little cream cheese before serving for a creamier texture.