Crockpot Chili Mac Dinner

There is nothing quite as comforting as a big bowl of chili mac after a chilly day My Crockpot Chili Mac combines the hearty flavors of classic chili with creamy macaroni and cheese all in one pot for easy cleanup and maximum coziness This is the kind of meal my family gathers around for movie nights because it always feels like a treat but takes hardly any effort to pull together

I first tossed together this recipe on a weekend when I needed to clear out cans from my pantry It has since become a go to when I want to impress guests with a no fuss meal that tastes like it cooked for hours and hours

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Seared for flavor and rich protein Always pick beef with a bit of fat for best taste and texture
• Medium onion: Diced onion brings sweetness and depth Go for yellow or white if you want it mild
• Kidney beans: Canned beans offer heartiness and color Choose beans packed in just water for cleaner flavor
• Black beans: Earthy and creamy Use a low sodium variety if you are watching salt
• Corn: Adds subtle sweetness and a pop of texture Frozen works too if you have it on hand
• Diced tomatoes: Brings tang and balances the rich beef Choose fire roasted for extra smokiness
• Chili seasoning: The backbone of chili flavor Make sure your packet is fresh for bold spices
• Beef broth: Adds richness and helps cook the pasta A good quality broth makes a difference
• Elbow macaroni: Holds up well in the slow cooker Go for classic if you want nostalgia
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the chili mac for creaminess Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor
• Garlic powder: Delivers savory depth without fresh garlic prep
• Paprika: Adds gentle warmth and color Smoked or sweet paprika both work
• Black pepper: Grounds the spices and perks up the whole pot
• Fresh cilantro: Optional for a fresh green finish Use only if you love the flavor

Instructions

Brown the Beef and Onion:

Begin by cooking ground beef and onion together in a skillet over medium heat Break up the meat as it cooks until the beef is browned and the onion is tender about 7 to 8 minutes Drain any excess fat before transferring to the slow cooker This builds savory browned flavor at the base of the dish

Layer in the Chili Ingredients:

Add both beans corn diced tomatoes chili seasoning garlic powder paprika black pepper and beef broth to the slow cooker Stir everything well so the seasonings and veggies are evenly distributed throughout the beef mixture Make sure to rinse and drain the beans thoroughly to avoid extra liquid or strong canned taste

Slow Cook for Flavor:

Set the slow cooker to LOW for 6 hours if you want to let it simmer all day or use HIGH for 3 to 4 hours if you are in a hurry This allows flavors from the spices and tomatoes to meld and the beef to become extra tender

Add Macaroni:

After the chili base is ready stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni so all the noodles are submerged into the liquid Cook on HIGH for 25 to 30 minutes until the pasta becomes plump and tender stirring halfway through to make sure noodles do not stick This timing gives you perfectly cooked macaroni that soaks up all the chili flavors

Stir in Cheese and Garnish:

Add shredded cheddar and stir until it melts into the chili mac making it creamy and rich Serve in bowls and top with a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro if you like bright herby notes

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The cheddar cheese is my favorite part because it melts right into the chili giving every bite creamy tang My kids still argue over who gets to scrape the last cheesy bit out of the crockpot and it always makes me smile when I see them coming back for seconds

Storage Tips

Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to four days Store in an airtight container and reheat on the stove over low heat with a splash of broth or water so the pasta stays soft You can freeze portions for up to two months though the pasta may soften more upon thawing

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap ground turkey or chicken for beef if you prefer a lighter version Use whatever beans you have on hand like pinto or cannellini If you do not have elbow macaroni shells or rotini work too

Serving Suggestions

Spoon into wide bowls and top with extra cheddar or a dollop of sour cream If you want a little crunch serve with tortilla chips on the side Sometimes I add avocado slices or a sprinkle of hot sauce for an extra kick

Cultural Context

Chili mac is a true American comfort food born from a mash up of chili con carne and classic macaroni and cheese It is a popular potluck and school lunch dish because it is affordable filling and appeals to both kids and adults This slow cooker adaptation saves time and brings everything together in one cozy meal

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You can easily double this recipe for a party just make sure not to overfill your slow cooker Creamy chili mac is always a hit at game day gatherings and it freezes well for future busy nights

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I prevent overcooked pasta in crockpot chili mac?

Add the macaroni in the last 25–30 minutes of cooking on HIGH so it stays tender and doesn't overcook.

→ Can I use different kinds of beans?

Yes, black beans and kidney beans work well, but you can swap in pinto or cannellini beans if preferred.

→ Is it possible to make this dish spicier?

Increase the chili seasoning or add chopped jalapeños for extra heat to match your spice preference.

→ What cheese works best for topping?

Shredded cheddar melts smoothly, but Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend are tasty alternatives.

→ Can leftovers be stored and reheated?

Keep leftover chili mac in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or microwave.