Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe – Comfort Food Perfection

Imagine a dish that perfectly blends the hearty flavors of chili with the creamy goodness of mac and cheese—this is exactly what the Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese delivers!

This recipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender pasta, savory ground beef, robust chili seasonings, and a rich, velvety cheese sauce.

Perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends, the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, so you can enjoy a warm, satisfying meal without the hassle.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this crockpot classic will quickly become a household favorite.

Read on to discover how to make this one-pot wonder and customize it to suit your taste.

What Is Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese?

Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese is a slow-cooked, one-pot dish that marries the bold, spicy flavors of chili with the creamy, cheesy comfort of macaroni.

It’s a hearty and filling meal that includes ingredients like ground beef, beans, tomatoes, chili spices, pasta, and lots of melted cheese.

Perfectly slow-cooked to allow all the flavors to meld together, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious.

Ingredients to Make Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this hearty dish:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans or black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Optional toppings: Sour cream, sliced green onions, crushed tortilla chips

Optional Additions

Add even more flavor and texture to your dish with these optional ingredients:

• Jalapeños: Add sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Corn: Stir in a cup of frozen or canned corn for a touch of sweetness.
• Peppers: Diced bell peppers add crunch and vibrant color.
• Cream Cheese: Mix in a few ounces of cream cheese for extra creaminess.
• Hot Sauce: For a fiery finish, add a dash of your favorite hot sauce.

Substitutions and Variations

• Protein Alternatives: Swap ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for a lighter option.
• Pasta Variations: Use gluten-free pasta or alternative shapes like shells or penne.
• Beans: Substitute kidney beans with pinto beans, cannellini beans, or omit them entirely for a bean-free version.
• Cheese: Try other cheese varieties like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Colby for a different flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions to Make Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese

1. Brown the Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent. Drain any excess grease.

2. Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot

Transfer the cooked beef mixture to your crockpot. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

3. Cook on Low

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.

4. Add the Pasta

Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni 30-40 minutes before serving. Ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid to cook evenly.

5. Add Cheese

Once the pasta is tender, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cover and cook for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Spoon the chili mac and cheese into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings like sour cream, green onions, or crushed tortilla chips.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Pasta: Add the pasta near the end of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Not Draining the Beans: Always rinse and drain canned beans to avoid excess liquid and a metallic taste.
• Skipping the Browning Step: Browning the beef beforehand adds depth and flavor to the dish.
• Adding Cheese Too Early: Melt the cheese just before serving to maintain its gooey texture.

Serving and Presentation Tips

• Family Style: Serve directly from the crockpot for a cozy, rustic feel.
• Toppings Bar: Set up a toppings station with sour cream, jalapeños, green onions, and tortilla chips for a customizable experience.
• Individual Bowls: Spoon into colorful bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of cheese and fresh herbs for a vibrant presentation.

Expert Tips

• Make It Ahead: Prepare the chili base ahead of time and refrigerate. Add the pasta and cheese when reheating.
• Freeze for Later: This dish freezes well. Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Tailor the heat to your liking by adding or reducing chili powder and paprika.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked pasta?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked pasta. Add it in the last 10 minutes of cooking to warm through.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or omit it entirely and add more beans and vegetables.

What other cheeses can I use?
Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a Mexican cheese blend are great alternatives to cheddar.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients. Use a larger crockpot to accommodate the increased volume.

Conclusion

This Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe is the epitome of comfort food made effortless.

With its creamy cheese sauce, bold chili flavors, and tender pasta, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Whether you’re preparing for a busy weeknight or a casual gathering, this one-pot meal is as convenient as it is delicious.

Try it today and experience a heartwarming fusion of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Need more crockpot recipes? You can get a whole list of delicious crockpot recipes here!