Crockpot Chili Mac And Cheese Recipe

If you're a fan of comfort food and crave a hearty meal that’s packed with flavor, then you’re in the right place. This Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese recipe is an irresistible blend of savory chili, cheesy goodness, and tender pasta – all made conveniently in your slow cooker! Whether you're cooking for your family or looking for an easy weeknight dinner that requires minimal prep, this recipe will become a favorite in your home. So, keep reading to learn all the steps and tips to perfect this delicious dish!

What is Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese?

Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese is a fusion dish that combines two classic comfort foods: chili and macaroni and cheese. The recipe brings together the hearty, spicy flavors of chili and the creamy, cheesy texture of mac and cheese in a slow-cooked masterpiece. The beauty of using a crockpot (or slow cooker) is that it lets the ingredients meld together over time, enhancing the flavors without you having to constantly monitor the stove. This dish is perfect for cozy nights or feeding a crowd with minimal effort.

Ingredients List for Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese

Before diving into the recipe, gather all your ingredients. Here's everything you need to make the perfect Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese:

For the Chili:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed (or kidney beans)
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies (optional, for extra heat)
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup beef broth (or chicken broth)

For the Mac and Cheese:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni (or other short pasta)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or mozzarella)
• 1 cup milk (whole milk for creaminess)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for thickening)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese recipe is its flexibility. You can easily adapt it based on your taste preferences or dietary restrictions. Here are some common substitutions and variations you can try:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat altogether and add more beans (like pinto or kidney beans) or include plant-based meat alternatives for extra protein.
• Spicier Chili: If you like your chili spicy, add more diced green chilies, jalapeños, or even a dash of hot sauce.
• Different Pasta Shapes: While elbow macaroni is the classic choice, you can experiment with other types of short pasta like rotini, penne, or shells.
• Cheese Choices: Feel free to get creative with the cheese. Gouda, pepper jack, or even a bit of cream cheese can add unique flavors and textures to your dish.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour with a gluten-free thickener.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients and substitutions in mind, it's time to start cooking! Follow these steps for a flawless Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese.

Step 1: Prepare the Chili

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it's browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they are softened and fragrant.
3. Combine Ingredients in Crockpot: Transfer the cooked meat and veggies to your crockpot. Stir in the diced tomatoes, black beans, tomato sauce, diced green chilies, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and beef broth. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Cook the Chili: Set your crockpot on low heat and cook for 4 to 5 hours, allowing all the flavors to meld together.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil the Macaroni: About 30 minutes before the chili is ready, cook your elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to create a roux, and cook for 1-2 minutes. Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Once the sauce thickens, stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and smooth.

Step 3: Combine and Finish

1. Add Pasta to the Chili: Once the chili is done cooking in the crockpot, stir in the cooked pasta.
2. Mix in Cheese Sauce: Pour the cheese sauce over the chili and pasta mixture, stirring gently to combine all the ingredients.
3. Final Cooking: Let the entire dish cook for an additional 10-15 minutes on low heat, allowing the cheese to melt through the dish.

How to Cook Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese: A Step-by-Step Guide

For a more concise version of the instructions:

1. Brown the ground beef, then sauté the onions, peppers, and garlic.
2. Add the cooked meat and veggies, tomatoes, beans, and spices to the crockpot. Cook on low for 4-5 hours.
3. Boil the pasta and prepare the cheese sauce.
4. Combine the chili, pasta, and cheese sauce in the crockpot, and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Pasta: Avoid cooking your pasta to mush. Make sure it's al dente (slightly firm) since it will continue cooking once added to the chili.
• Not Draining the Meat: Be sure to drain the fat after browning your ground beef to prevent an overly greasy dish.
• Skipping the Cheese Sauce: Simply dumping cheese into the crockpot can result in clumpy, uneven melting. Making a cheese sauce ensures a smooth and creamy texture.
• Using Low-Fat Cheese: Low-fat cheese may not melt as well as full-fat varieties. Opt for full-fat cheese for the best consistency and flavor.

Serving and Presentation Tips

When it comes to serving Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese, presentation is key to making it even more appetizing. Here are a few tips to elevate your dish:

• Top with Garnishes: Add a handful of chopped green onions, sliced jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream to bring extra flavor and color to your plate.
• Sprinkle Extra Cheese: For cheese lovers, sprinkle extra shredded cheddar on top and allow it to melt slightly before serving.
• Serve with Bread: Pair your chili mac and cheese with crusty garlic bread or warm cornbread to complement the rich flavors.

How to Serve Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese

This dish is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for casual dinners, game day gatherings, or even potlucks. Serve it as a hearty main course alongside a simple side salad or enjoy it as a stand-alone meal. To keep things interesting, you can also serve it in individual ramekins or bowls for a more elegant touch.

Presentation Ideas for Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese

Presentation goes beyond just taste. Here are a few creative ideas for presenting your Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese:

• Layered Casserole Dish: For a party or family gathering, transfer the dish to a casserole dish, sprinkle with extra cheese, and broil for a few minutes to get a bubbly, golden top.
• Serve in Bread Bowls: For a unique twist, serve the chili mac and cheese inside hollowed-out bread bowls.
• Garnish Generously: Don't forget toppings like sour cream, avocado slices, and fresh cilantro for a colorful and vibrant finish.

Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: This dish can easily be prepared a day in advance. Simply store it in the fridge and reheat in the crockpot before serving.
• Freezing: Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months, and reheat when needed.
• Adjust Spices: The level of spiciness can be adjusted to suit your taste. Feel free to add extra chili powder or hot sauce if you like it fiery.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I cook the pasta in the crockpot instead of separately? Yes, you can add uncooked pasta in the last 30 minutes of cooking, but it may get softer than boiling it separately.
2. Can I use pre-shredded cheese? It's better to shred your own cheese as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents, which can affect the texture.
3. Can I make this recipe without beans? Yes, you can leave out the beans if you prefer a more traditional mac and cheese.
4. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, any short pasta like rotini or penne works well in this recipe.

Conclusion

Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese is a surefire way to satisfy your craving for something hearty, cheesy, and comforting. With its bold flavors and easy preparation, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. So, give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to get creative with the variations! Happy cooking!

Print