There’s something magical about combining two beloved classics—chili and mac and cheese—into one hearty, delicious dish. Enter Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese: the ultimate comfort food that’s as cozy as your favorite sweater and as easy as setting it and forgetting it. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing game-day meal, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Oh, and did I mention it all comes together in your slow cooker? That means minimal effort, maximum flavor, and fewer dishes to clean. If you’re a fan of creamy cheese, tender pasta, and that savory chili kick, you’ve come to the right place!

So, grab your crockpot and let’s dive into this recipe that’s guaranteed to become a staple in your home. Don’t forget to subscribe to my email list for more recipes like this sent straight to your inbox. You won’t want to miss out!

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe

This dish brings together the bold, hearty flavors of chili and the creamy comfort of mac and cheese. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Flavor Explosion: Every bite is packed with smoky chili spices, savory ground beef, tangy tomatoes, and gooey cheese. It’s a perfect marriage of bold and creamy!
• One-Pot Wonder: Your crockpot does all the heavy lifting, leaving you free to relax or tackle your to-do list.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will devour this dish. It’s comforting, familiar, and oh-so-satisfying.
• Customizable: Make it spicy, mild, vegetarian, or add extra toppings—this recipe is super versatile!
• Meal Prep Star: It stores beautifully, making it a great option for leftovers or meal prepping.

What Does Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese Taste Like?

Imagine the savory, slightly smoky flavors of chili meeting the creamy, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese. It’s hearty, rich, and satisfying. The tender pasta soaks up the robust chili flavors, while the melted cheese pulls everything together into a gooey, comforting masterpiece. Serve it up with a side of cornbread or tortilla chips, and you’ve got yourself a meal that’s anything but boring!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese:

For the Chili Base:

• 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup beef broth (or chicken broth for lighter flavor)
• 1 ½ tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Mac and Cheese:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar works best!)
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra creaminess)

Optional Toppings:

• Chopped green onions
• Sour cream
• Sliced jalapeños
• Crushed tortilla chips

Tools You’ll Need

• A 6-quart crockpot or larger
• A skillet for browning the meat
• A wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Measuring cups and spoons

How to Make Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese

Making this recipe couldn’t be easier! Follow these simple steps:

1. Brown the Meat
   In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Drain any excess grease and transfer the mixture to your crockpot.
2. Build the Chili Base
   Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, black beans, beef broth, and all the spices (chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper) to the crockpot. Stir everything together until well combined.
3. Cook the Chili
   Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
4. Add the Pasta
   About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Cover and continue cooking on low for 20-30 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
5. Add the Cheese
   Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, milk, and butter. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and creamy.
6. Serve and Enjoy
   Ladle the chili mac and cheese into bowls and top with your favorite toppings like green onions, sour cream, or jalapeños. Dig in and enjoy the ultimate comfort food!

What to Serve with Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese

This dish is a meal on its own, but if you’re looking to round it out, here are some great options:

• Cornbread: Sweet, buttery cornbread pairs beautifully with the bold chili flavors.
• Salad: A fresh green salad adds a nice contrast to the rich, creamy dish.
• Tortilla Chips: Scoop up the chili mac like a dip—it’s addictive!
• Roasted Veggies: A side of roasted broccoli or Brussels sprouts is a great way to sneak in some greens.

Tips for Perfect Chili Mac and Cheese

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep an eye on the pasta to ensure it doesn’t turn mushy. Add it toward the end of the cooking time for best results.
• Make It Spicy: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper if you love some heat.
• Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese can have a coating that prevents it from melting smoothly, so shred your own for the creamiest texture.
• Make It Vegetarian: Skip the ground beef and add extra beans or a meat substitute like crumbled tofu or plant-based “ground meat.”
• Double the Recipe: This dish freezes well, so make a big batch and save some for later!

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Let the chili mac cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Short pasta shapes like penne, shells, or rotini work well. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely. Use your favorite dairy-free cheese and milk substitutes. A creamy coconut milk base can also work well for added richness.

What if I don’t have a crockpot?
You can make this recipe on the stovetop! Simmer the chili in a large pot for 1-2 hours, then add the pasta and cheese as directed.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the elbow macaroni for gluten-free pasta.

A Final Word on Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese

This Crockpot Chili Mac and Cheese is everything you want in a comfort food: hearty, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying. It’s a meal that brings people together and keeps them coming back for seconds (or thirds!). Plus, with its easy prep and customizable options, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to time and time again.

Looking for more hearty, family-friendly meals? Try these recipes next:

• Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe
• Beefy Onion Crockpot Meatballs Recipe
• Crockpot Sloppy Joes Recipe: A Comfort Food Classic Made Easy

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your crockpot, give this recipe a try, and let me know how it turns out! Don’t forget to share your photos and tag me on Pinterest—I’d love to see your creations and hear your thoughts.

Nutrition Information (per serving):

• Calories: 430
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 21g
• Fiber: 8g

Happy cooking! ❤️

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