Introduction
There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty bowl of chili mac, especially when it’s made in a slow cooker. This dish combines the bold flavors of chili with the creamy, satisfying goodness of macaroni and cheese, creating a meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for your week ahead, this slow cooker chili mac is a game changer.
With minimal effort, you can enjoy a rich and hearty bowlful that warms you from the inside out. Just toss your ingredients into the slow cooker, set it, and let it do the work while you focus on other tasks — or simply unwind at the end of the day. Not only is this recipe a fantastic way to use pantry staples, but it’s also versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite proteins, beans, and spices.
Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and discover how to create the ultimate weeknight warm-up that your family will crave again and again!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 2 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups macaroni pasta
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for serving)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef (or turkey) until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and transfer the meat to the slow cooker.
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- Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper to the slow cooker with the meat. Stir to combine.
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- Pour in the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and beef broth. Mix everything together well.
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- Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to evenly distribute the spices throughout the mixture.
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- Set the slow cooker to low heat and cook for 6 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the macaroni pasta. If the chili is too thick, add a bit more broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
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- Once the pasta is cooked and tender, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the chili mac. Mix well until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated.
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- Serve hot, garnishing with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired, and sprinkle additional cheese on top for an extra cheesy finish.
- Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 6 hr 30 min | Servings: 6
Key Ingredients
- Ground Meat: 1 pound of ground beef, turkey, or plant-based meat for a hearty base.
- Pasta: 2 cups of elbow macaroni or any pasta shape of your choice for that classic chili mac texture.
- Beans: 1 can (15 oz) of kidney beans and 1 can (15 oz) of black beans, drained and rinsed for added protein and fiber.
- Tomatoes: 1 can (28 oz) of diced tomatoes for a rich, flavorful sauce.
- Chili Sauce: 1 can (15 oz) of chili sauce or 2 tablespoons of chili powder for that signature chili flavor.
- Vegetables: 1 medium onion, chopped, and 1 bell pepper, diced for sweetness and crunch.
- Garlic: 2-3 cloves minced for aromatic depth.
- Broth: 2 cups of beef or vegetable broth to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
- Cheese: 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, reserved for topping before serving.
- Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, and optional spices such as cumin or paprika for additional flavor nuances.
Baking Process
While Slow Cooker Chili Mac is best made in a slow cooker, you can also enjoy a delicious baked version if you’d like to finish it off in the oven for that extra comforting touch. Here’s how to bake it once you’ve prepped your hearty mixture:
Ingredients:
- Prepared Slow Cooker Chili Mac mixture (from slow cooking process)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your choice of cheese)
- Optional toppings: sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, or sour cream
Instructions:
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the ideal temperature for a baked casserole.
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Transfer to a Baking Dish: Once your Slow Cooker Chili Mac is ready, carefully transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch (or equivalent) baking dish. Make sure to spread it out evenly to ensure even baking.
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Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the chili mac. If you’re feeling adventurous, feel free to mix in some mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for an extra flavor kick!
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Cover (Optional): If you prefer a softer top, you can cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This will help retain moisture. However, for a crispy cheese topping, opt to leave it uncovered.
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Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. If you covered it, you may want to remove the foil halfway through to allow the cheese to become golden and bubbly.
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Broil for Extra Crispiness: For that irresistible crunchy top, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close watch to prevent burning.
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Check for Doneness: Ensure that the chili mac is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can insert a thermometer into the center to check for at least 165°F (74°C).
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Serve and Garnish: Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish your baked chili mac with sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream, if desired.
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Enjoy: Spoon the hearty chili mac into bowls and enjoy a warm, comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
Tips:
- Enhance the flavor by stirring in some spices like cumin, paprika, or even a dash of hot sauce before transferring to the baking dish.
- This dish is versatile! Add your favorite veggies, like diced bell peppers or corn, for added nutrition.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, and they reheat beautifully in the oven or microwave.
Enjoy your deliciously baked Slow Cooker Chili Mac—a perfect blend of hearty flavors that’s ideal for busy weeknights!
Serving Suggestions
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Toppings Galore: Elevate your Slow Cooker Chili Mac by offering a variety of toppings. Consider traditional accompaniments like shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced green onions, or fresh cilantro. For an extra kick, add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes.
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Side Salads: Pair your hearty chili mac with a crisp side salad. A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
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Cornbread or Garlic Bread: Serve your chili mac with a warm slice of cornbread or garlic bread. Both options are perfect for scooping up chili and add a satisfying crunch to each bite.
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Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices or a scoop of guacamole can complement the flavors of your chili mac and add a refreshing texture to the dish.
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Pickled Jalapeños: For those who love an extra kick, serve pickled jalapeños on the side. They can brighten the dish and provide a nice tanginess.
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Pairs Well with Beverages: A cold brew or a refreshing iced tea can wash down the richness of the chili mac beautifully. For something non-alcoholic, try sparkling water with a wedge of lime or lemon for a refreshing touch.
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Leftover Heaven: Don’t forget that leftovers can be just as delicious! Serve the chili mac in a baked potato for a new twist, or use it as a filling for quesadillas for a fun lunch option.
Enjoy customizing and personalizing your chili mac experience to suit your taste and cravings!
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Chili Mac is the perfect weeknight meal that combines convenience with hearty flavors, making it a go-to recipe for busy families or anyone looking to enjoy a comforting bowl of food without a lot of fuss. The tender pasta, rich chili, and melty cheese meld together to create a dish that’s not just satisfying but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite toppings, like sour cream, jalapeños, or fresh cilantro, to make it truly your own. Best of all, this recipe sets you up for an effortless dinner – simply toss the ingredients in your slow cooker, and let it do its magic while you take care of other tasks.
So the next time you need a warm and inviting meal that will please both kids and adults alike, look no further than this chili mac. Say goodbye to complicated recipes and hello to an easy, tasty dinner that’s sure to become a family favorite! Happy cooking!
