Irresistible Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac Recipe

Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac is the ultimate comfort food that warms your heart and fills your belly. Imagine a bubbling pot of creamy, cheesy goodness, where tender pasta dances with zesty chili and savory cheddar like they’re at a never-ending dance party. It’s hearty, it’s delicious, and it’s guaranteed to make your taste buds do a happy little jig.

Now, picture this: it’s a chilly evening, and you walk into your home only to be greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac wafting through the air. It’s like being wrapped in a cozy blanket of flavor. Whether it’s game night with friends or just a quiet family dinner, this dish transforms any occasion into something special. Trust me; your future self will thank you for making this delectable recipe!

I still remember the first time I made this for my family. Their delighted faces lit up like Christmas trees when they took their first bites—definitely a moment to cherish!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Elbow Macaroni: Opt for whole-grain or regular macaroni; both cook beautifully in the slow cooker.

• Ground Beef or Turkey: Choose lean meat for less grease; it helps keep the dish lighter.

• Canned Diced Tomatoes: Pick fire-roasted tomatoes for an extra kick; they add depth to the chili flavor.

• Canned Kidney Beans: Rinse them well to reduce sodium; they offer protein and texture.

• Chili Powder: Use a good quality chili powder; it packs flavor without overwhelming heat.

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Go for sharp cheddar—it melts beautifully and gives that tangy finish.

• Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while enhancing flavor.

• Onion and Garlic: Freshly chopped onion and minced garlic elevate the overall taste significantly.

• Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers add crunch and sweetness; feel free to use green, red, or yellow.

• Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil helps sauté the veggies before combining them in the crockpot.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Before diving into cooking, gather all your ingredients so you can mix them easily in your Crock Pot.

Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until they’re fragrant and translucent—about 3 minutes is perfect.

Brown the Meat: Add ground beef or turkey to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon—no one likes clumps of meat!

Add Your Veggies & Spices: Stir in diced bell peppers and chili powder while continuing to cook for another 3-4 minutes until everything is nicely combined.

Combine in Crock Pot: Transfer the cooked meat mixture into the crock pot. Mix in elbow macaroni, diced tomatoes (with juice), kidney beans, and vegetable broth for that luscious base.

Cheesy Goodness Time!: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top but resist mixing it in just yet! Let it melt beautifully during cooking—patience is key here.

Cook Away!: Cover your crock pot and set it on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Make sure to stir occasionally so every noodle gets enveloped in that cheesy sauce!

And there you have it! Your kitchen will soon be filled with delightful aromas as your Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac cooks away. Enjoy this hearty dish that brings everyone together around the table!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the meat in a skillet before adding it to the crock pot. This enhances flavor significantly. Layer ingredients thoughtfully to ensure even cooking and perfect texture throughout.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the ground beef for turkey or add black beans for extra protein. Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for a unique twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm on low heat on the stove or microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally.

Sharing this dish with friends at a potluck turned into a delightful evening filled with laughter and second helpings! Everyone raved about it, making me feel like a culinary superstar.

FAQ

What can I use instead of pasta in Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac?

Consider using quinoa or cauliflower rice as gluten-free alternatives that work well.

How long does Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac take to cook?

It typically cooks in 4-6 hours on low heat or 2-3 hours on high heat.

Can I freeze leftover Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac?

Yes, you can freeze it! Just store in airtight containers for up to three months.

Print

Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac

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• Author: Ethan Brooks
• Total Time: 2 minute
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac is the perfect comfort food that combines creamy cheese, zesty chili, and tender macaroni for a heartwarming meal. This easy-to-make dish is ideal for busy weeknights or gatherings, filling your home with an irresistible aroma that beckons everyone to the dinner table. With minimal prep and the rich flavors of ground meat and spices, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup elbow macaroni
• 1 lb ground beef or turkey
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced fire-roasted tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup bell peppers, diced (any color)
• 1 tbsp olive oil

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Instructions

1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant and translucent.
2. Add ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it apart.
3. Stir in bell peppers and chili powder; cook for another 3-4 minutes.
4. Transfer mixture to the crock pot. Add elbow macaroni, diced tomatoes (with juice), kidney beans, and vegetable broth.
5. Sprinkle cheese on top without mixing in. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 hours on low or 2 hours on high
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 430
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: For a lighter dish, use lean ground turkey instead of beef. Add black beans for extra protein or substitute pasta with quinoa for a gluten-free option. To enhance creaminess, mix in cheese gradually at the end of cooking.