There’s something magical about the aroma of Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac wafting through your home. Imagine a creamy, cheesy pasta dish, bubbling away as it fills your kitchen with warmth and comfort. Each spoonful is a delightful explosion of flavors that dances on your taste buds like a joyful jig at a family reunion.
Growing up, this dish was our go-to for cozy family gatherings. The laughter around the dinner table paired perfectly with the rich, cheesy goodness of the mac and chili. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in a warm hug, making it perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you need a little extra love.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This comforting Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free
- Its rich flavor profile combines creamy cheese with hearty chili for an irresistible taste experience
- Visually appealing with its vibrant colors, this dish will brighten any table setting
- It’s versatile enough to serve at casual get-togethers or cozy family nights in
I remember the first time I made this for my friends; their delighted faces were priceless as they dove into seconds and thirds.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Macaroni Pasta: I usually use elbow macaroni, but you can experiment with other shapes if you’re feeling adventurous.
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Ground Beef or Turkey: Choose lean meat to keep it healthy without sacrificing flavor.
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Canned Chili Beans: Opt for spicy chili beans for an extra kick or mild ones for a gentler flavor.
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Diced Tomatoes: Use fire-roasted tomatoes for added depth and smoky flavor; they bring out the best in this dish.
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Cheddar Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties; it makes all the difference in creaminess.
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Onion and Garlic: These aromatics provide an essential base flavor; don’t skip them!
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Chicken Broth: Using broth instead of water enhances the overall flavor profile significantly.
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Spices (Chili Powder & Cumin): They add warmth and earthiness; adjust them based on your spice tolerance.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by chopping your onions and mincing garlic to release their aromatic properties. Set them aside so they’re ready to go when you need them.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onions until they turn translucent and fragrant. Add minced garlic and stir until golden brown to enhance their sweetness.
Brown the Meat: Add ground beef or turkey to the skillet. Cook until browned and crumbly, ensuring it’s fully cooked through before draining excess fat.
Add Everything to the Crock Pot: Transfer the meat mixture into your crock pot along with macaroni pasta, canned chili beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, spices, and half of the cheddar cheese. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Cook Low and Slow: Cover your crock pot and set it on low heat for about 4 hours or high heat for about 2 hours. Stir occasionally until pasta is tender and flavors meld beautifully together.
Add Cheese Topping: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese on top. Cover again until melted and bubbly—this is where it gets indulgently gooey!
Now that you’ve conquered this amazing dish, get ready for some serious comfort food satisfaction! Enjoy every cheesy bite of your Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac!
You Must Know
- Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac combines creamy cheese and zesty chili flavors for a comforting dish
- The slow cooker makes it easy to prepare, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully
- Perfect for family meals or gatherings, it’s sure to please everyone at your table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet before adding it to the crock pot. This step boosts flavor and gives texture. Then, combine all ingredients in the pot, set on low, and let it simmer away for a few hours.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or add black beans for extra protein. Experiment with different cheese blends for unique flavors, or throw in some diced jalapeños if you like a little heat!
Storing & Reheating
To store leftovers, cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days or freeze for up to two months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac, remember these tips</strong>: Sautéing meat adds depth of flavor
- Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness
- Stir occasionally during cooking for even flavor distribution and texture
Sometimes I think back to that time my friend brought this dish to our potluck; everyone raved about it! It was heartwarming seeing people enjoy something I often made for my family.
FAQ
Can I make Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute meat with lentils or extra beans for a hearty vegetarian option.
How long does it take to cook in the crock pot?
Typically, it takes about 4-6 hours on low heat for perfect results.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Certainly! Feel free to mix cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for different flavors.
Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac is a creamy, cheesy delight that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. This comforting dish combines tender macaroni, zesty chili beans, and rich cheddar cheese, all slow-cooked to perfection in your Crock Pot. With minimal preparation and maximum flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite at your table. Enjoy the warmth and joy of this delightful meal that brings everyone together.
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey (lean)
- 1 can (15 oz) chili beans (mild or spicy)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (fire-roasted preferred)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by chopping onions and mincing garlic.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onions until translucent; add minced garlic until golden brown.
- Brown the ground beef or turkey in the skillet until cooked through; drain excess fat.
- Transfer the meat mixture to the Crock Pot along with macaroni, chili beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, spices, and half of the cheddar cheese. Stir well.
- Cover and cook on low for about 4 hours or high for 2 hours, stirring occasionally until pasta is tender.
- About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese on top; cover until melted.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
