Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac

This hearty Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac has been my family's go-to solution for busy weeknights when we need comfort food without the fuss. The combination of seasoned ground beef, beans, pasta and melted cheese creates a crowd-pleasing meal that satisfies even the pickiest eaters in my household.

I first created this recipe during a particularly hectic sports season when my children had practices on different sides of town. Coming home to this bubbling in the slow cooker became our Tuesday tradition and honestly saved my sanity during those chaotic months.

• Lean ground beef: Provides satisfying protein without excess fat look for 90% lean for best results
• Uncooked macaroni: Cooked al dente ensures pasta maintains texture during slow cooking
• Mild chili beans: Deliver classic chili flavor while their sauce thickens the dish beautifully
• Diced tomatoes with green chiles: Add brightness and a gentle kick adjust with regular diced tomatoes if serving heat sensitive eaters
• Chili powder: Brings authentic warmth without overwhelming spice quality matters here
• Garlic salt: Infuses savory depth throughout every bite
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Creates that irresistible melty topping use medium or sharp depending on your preference

How To Make Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac

Brown the beef:

Start by browning ground beef in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes until no pink remains. Break the meat into small crumbles as it cooks for even texture throughout the dish. Drain thoroughly to prevent excess grease in your final dish.

Prepare pasta:

Cook macaroni in boiling salted water for about 2 minutes less than package directions indicate. This undercooking prevents the pasta from becoming mushy during the slow cooking process. Rinse briefly with cold water to halt cooking.

Combine ingredients:

Add browned beef, cooked macaroni, undrained chili beans, drained tomatoes with green chiles, chili powder, and garlic salt to your slow cooker. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed. Make sure to scrape the bottom and sides to incorporate everything.

Add cheese topping:

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top of the mixture creating a blanket of cheese that will melt beautifully during cooking. Avoid stirring after this step to maintain that perfect cheesy top layer.

Slow cook to perfection:

Cover and cook on low for 2 hours or high for 1 to 1.5 hours. If your slow cooker has hot spots, rotate the insert halfway through cooking time. The dish is ready when the cheese is completely melted and the edges are slightly bubbling.

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The mild chili beans are truly the secret ingredient in this recipe. My grandmother always said good chili was about finding the right beans, and after testing countless varieties, these mild chili beans provide that perfect balance of flavor without requiring additional seasoning work. Every time I open a can, I think of her kitchen and how she'd approve of this modern twist on comfort food.

Serving Suggestions

This Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac is a meal in itself, but adding a few simple sides can elevate the dining experience. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides refreshing contrast to the hearty main dish. Cornbread makes an excellent accompaniment soaking up the savory sauce beautifully. For a complete comfort food experience, serve with garlic bread for scooping up every last bite.

Make It Your Own

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Swap ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version with minimal flavor difference. Vegetarians can substitute a plant based crumble or an extra can of beans for the meat. Spice lovers can increase the heat by adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. For extra vegetables, mix in diced bell peppers, corn, or zucchini. The recipe maintains its integrity while accommodating dietary preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually develop and improve overnight, making this an excellent make ahead option. To reheat, microwave individual portions covered with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. For family servings, reheat in a covered casserole dish in a 350°F oven until warmed through. Add a sprinkle of fresh cheese before reheating for that freshly made experience.

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Kid Friendly Variations

This dish naturally appeals to children with its familiar pasta and cheese combination. For extremely picky eaters, consider using regular diced tomatoes instead of those with green chiles. Let kids customize their own bowls with toppings like extra cheese, sour cream, or even crushed tortilla chips for added texture. Creating a toppings bar allows everyone to personalize their serving while still enjoying the same base meal perfect for families with varying preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute macaroni with any short pasta like penne or rotini. Just ensure it's cooked al dente before adding it to the crock pot.

→ What kind of ground beef works best?

Lean ground beef (around 85-90% lean) is ideal as it reduces excess grease while adding rich flavor.

→ Can I make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! Use medium or hot chili beans, add extra chili powder, or include sliced jalapeños for extra heat.

→ What’s the best cheese to use?

Shredded cheddar works great, but you can mix in pepper jack or mozzarella for a flavorful twist.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.