Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac

A comforting aroma wafts through your kitchen as the Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac simmers to perfection. This hearty dish melds the rich flavors of chili and creamy cheddar with tender macaroni, creating a meal that’s ready in just a couple of hours. It’s the perfect blend of convenience and flavor that makes it a standout recipe in any busy household.

This recipe is ideal for families, busy professionals, or anyone craving a delicious and filling meal. Serve it on a chilly evening or as a crowd-pleasing potluck dish. You can easily make it ahead of time and store leftovers in the fridge for quick meals throughout the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy melted cheese on top adds irresistible flavor.
• One-pot meal means fewer dishes to clean up.
• You can customize it easily with your favorite add-ins.
• The slow cooking enhances all the flavors beautifully.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious dish.

For the Main Mixture

• 1 lb lean ground beef, browned and drained
• 1 cup uncooked macaroni, cooked al dente
• 15 oz can mild chili beans, undrained
• 10.5 oz can diced tomatoes with green chiles, drained
• 1.5 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt

For Topping

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Note: You can use turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Ground turkey for leaner meat
• Gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option
• Pepper jack cheese for extra spice
• Substitute black beans for variety

How to Make It

Combine ingredients in your slow cooker for a fuss-free meal.

1. Mix ingredients
   In a 4-quart slow cooker, mix together the ground beef, macaroni, chili beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, and garlic salt until well combined.

2. Add cheese
   Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top of the mixture.

3. Cook
   Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 2 hours or high for 1-1.5 hours, turning the insert halfway through if your slow cooker does not cook evenly.

How to Store It

Fridge: store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: yes, for up to 3 months.
Reheat: microwave on high for 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Tips for Best Results

• Browning the beef before adding enhances the flavor.
• Use cooked macaroni to speed up the cooking process.
• Make sure to drain the tomatoes to prevent sogginess.
• Adjust the chili powder based on your spice preference.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of garlic bread for a cozy meal.
• Pair with a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Great for game day gatherings with tortilla chips on the side.