There’s something magical about the aroma of Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac wafting through your home. Picture this: creamy cheddar cheese, zesty chili, and perfectly cooked macaroni all mingling together in one glorious pot. The moment you lift the lid, your senses explode with warmth and comfort that can only come from a dish made with love. For more inspiration, check out this Green Chile Macaroni Delight recipe.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use different types of cheese in the Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac?
- How long does it take to cook Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac?
- Can I prepare it ahead of time?
- 📖 Recipe Card
This recipe holds a special place in my heart, often reminding me of family gatherings where laughter echoes around the dinner table. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you need to impress friends with minimal effort. Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers Get ready for an explosion of flavors that will bring everyone to the table faster than you can say “Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac.”
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac is incredibly easy to prepare and requires minimal cleanup
- The rich flavor profile combines savory cheese and spices, making it irresistible
- Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing, ensuring it stands out on any table
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve as a hearty main dish or a sideshow star at parties
Every time I whip up this deliciousness, my family dives right in—it’s like I’ve summoned their inner mac-and-cheese-loving beasts!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Macaroni Pasta: Use medium shells or elbow macaroni for the best texture; they hold onto the sauce beautifully.
- Canned Chili: Choose your favorite brand or homemade variety; it adds richness and depth to the dish.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Go for sharp cheddar for a tangy kick that elevates every bite; feel free to mix cheeses.
- Onion: Diced onions provide sweetness; sauté until translucent before adding them to the pot.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances flavor—just a few cloves minced will do wonders.
- Bell Pepper: Use any color you prefer; they add crunch and vibrancy to your mac.
- Chicken Broth: A flavorful base that keeps everything moist and delicious throughout cooking.
- Spices (Chili Powder, Cumin): These spices are essential for that smoky chili taste; adjust according to your heat preference.
- Sour Cream (Optional): A dollop on top adds creaminess and balances the flavors nicely.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the countertop. Chop onions and bell peppers into small pieces while enjoying their fresh aromas filling your kitchen.
Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté diced onions and garlic until translucent and fragrant. This step builds a solid flavor foundation for your mac.
Add Everything to the Crock Pot: Transfer cooked aromatics into your crock pot. Then, add macaroni pasta, canned chili, bell peppers, chicken broth, and spices.
Mix It Up: Stir everything together thoroughly so that each piece of pasta is coated in cheesy goodness. Don’t be shy—get in there with your spoon! For more inspiration, check out this Cheesy Beef Wraps recipe.
Cover & Cook: Set your crock pot on low heat for 4 hours. As it cooks, resist the temptation to lift the lid too often; let those flavors meld!
Add Cheese: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and bubbly. The cheese should ooze into every nook and cranny of your mac.
Once you’ve followed these steps, you’re just moments away from digging into a bowl of pure comfort food bliss!
Enjoy every bit of this delightful Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac with family or friends—you might want to double the recipe because leftovers will vanish faster than you can say “seconds!”
You Must Know
- Mastering the Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac can elevate your family dinners and game-day parties
- The rich aroma fills your kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around the table
- This dish is not just hearty; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for any occasion
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To make the Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac perfectly, layer ingredients wisely: start with meat, add beans and spices, then top with pasta and cheese. One Pot French Onion Pasta This ensures everything cooks evenly and flavors meld beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or use gluten-free pasta for dietary needs. Toss in some jalapeños or bell peppers for an extra kick of flavor that suits your taste buds. Chinese Ground Beef Stir Fry Ground Beef Orzo Recipe.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on low heat on the stove or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Remember to sauté onions and garlic first for deeper flavor before adding them to the slow cooker
- Avoid overcooking pasta; it should be al dente since it will continue cooking in the pot
- Don’t forget fresh herbs as a bright finishing touch!
Cooking this dish takes me back to my college days when late-night study sessions called for easy comfort food that delighted friends and fueled our caffeine-fueled debates.
FAQ
Can I use different types of cheese in the Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac?
Absolutely! Mixing cheddar with Monterey Jack or pepper jack adds exciting flavors.
How long does it take to cook Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac?
It typically takes about 3-4 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low heat.
Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble all ingredients and refrigerate overnight before cooking.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac is a comforting, one-pot meal that combines creamy cheddar cheese, zesty chili, and tender macaroni for a dish that warms the soul. Perfect for chilly evenings or gatherings, this easy-to-make recipe delivers rich flavors with minimal effort. Just set it and forget it while the slow cooker works its magic, ensuring every bite is filled with deliciousness. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cans (15 oz each) chili (your choice)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- Optional: Sour cream for serving
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients by chopping onions and bell peppers.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onions and garlic until translucent.
- Transfer sautéed mixture to the crock pot; add macaroni, chili, bell peppers, chicken broth, and spices.
- Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cheddar cheese until melted.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
