Chili Mac In The Crock Pot The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

What Is Chili Mac In The Crock Pot?

Chili mac in the crock pot has always been one of my favorite recipes to create, because it tells the story of who I am as a cook. My passion for food was born in my family’s kitchen, surrounded by sizzling pans, vibrant spices, and the comforting smell of slow-cooked meals like this hearty chili mac. I grew up learning how to make food that nourishes the soul and brings people together around the table.

Over the years, I trained professionally, cooked across different cultures, and gathered recipes, stories, and techniques that shaped my unique style. But no matter where I’ve cooked – whether in bustling restaurant kitchens or my tiny apartment stove – I always come back to one simple idea: food made with love is the best kind. That’s why chili mac in the crock pot remains close to my heart. It combines the deep, bold flavors of a homemade beef chili with creamy, cheesy macaroni, creating the ultimate comfort food mash-up for any occasion.

Chili Mac In The Crock Pot

"Chili mac in the crock pot combines beefy chili flavors with creamy mac and cheese for the ultimate comfort food dinner

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 4 hours hrs

Total Time 4 hours hrs 10 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Ingredients

  

• “Ground Beef”
• “Elbow Macaroni”
• “Crushed or Diced Tomatoes”
• “Beef Broth”
• “Green Bell Pepper”
• “Onion”
• “Garlic”
• “Pinto Beans”
• “Cheddar Cheese”
• “Chili powder”
• “Cumin”
• “Salt”
• “Paprika”
• “Oregano”
• “Pepper”

Instructions

 

• “Brown ground beef with onion, bell pepper, and garlic.”,
• “Add mixture to slow cooker with beans, tomatoes, broth, and seasonings.”,
• “Cook on HIGH 3-4 hours or LOW 6-8 hours.”,
• “Add pasta and cheese, cook 10-20 minutes until pasta is tender.”,
• “Top with remaining cheese before serving.”

Keyword Chili Mac In The Crock Pot

Why Make Slow Cooker Chili Mac And Cheese?

When you need an easy, filling dinner that warms your kitchen and your heart, chili mac in the crock pot is the answer. Whether it’s a busy weeknight, a cozy date night, or game day with friends, this one-pot meal delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Packed with ground beef, pinto beans, diced tomatoes, tender elbow macaroni, and melted cheddar cheese, each bite feels like a comforting hug after a long day.

Cooking chili mac in the crock pot also fills your home with the incredible aroma of slow-cooked beef, garlic, peppers, and chili spices. As someone who believes food made with love is always the best kind, I created Chili Meal to share recipes like this – easy, flavorful, and guaranteed to bring joy to your table.

Ingredients For Crockpot Chili Mac Recipe

Essential Ingredients Breakdown

To make the best chili mac in the crock pot, gather these staple ingredients. Each brings its own depth of flavor and texture, turning a simple crockpot meal into a rich, creamy comfort food dinner:

• Ground Beef: The hearty base of this recipe. Choose lean beef for less grease or regular ground beef for deeper flavor. Brown it first for the best results.
• Elbow Macaroni: The classic pasta for chili mac. Its curved shape holds onto the cheesy sauce beautifully.
• Crushed or Diced Tomatoes: Adds acidity and rich tomato flavor. Crushed tomatoes create a thicker sauce, while diced tomatoes keep small tomato chunks in every bite.
• Beef Broth: Infuses the pasta with a savory, meaty depth as it cooks in the crock pot.
• Green Bell Pepper: Brings a subtle sweetness and crunch that balance the richness of the beef and cheese.
• Onion: A flavor foundation. Yellow onions work best for their mild sweetness when slow cooked.
• Garlic: Essential for that robust chili aroma.
• Pinto Beans: Adds creaminess and protein, making the meal filling and satisfying.
• Cheddar Cheese: The final touch. Melty cheddar ties the chili and macaroni together into a creamy, cheesy masterpiece.
• Seasonings: Chili powder, cumin, salt, paprika, oregano, and pepper – a simple homemade chili seasoning mix that packs serious flavor without needing a store-bought packet.

Looking for inspiration? Try this Easy Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake for another comforting weeknight dinner.

Substitution Ideas For Ingredients

Don’t worry if you’re missing an ingredient – here are easy swaps to keep your chili mac in the crock pot delicious:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Lighten up the dish with leaner protein options without losing flavor.
• Different Beans: Use black beans or kidney beans instead of pinto beans for variation.
• Rotini or Penne Pasta: If you’re out of elbow macaroni, these shapes work just as well.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the beef and add more beans or plant-based crumbles for a meatless chili mac.
• Cheese Variations: Mix cheddar with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a creamier and spicier result.

These simple swaps ensure you can always whip up chili mac in the crock pot with what you already have in your pantry. Plus, it keeps the dish exciting every time you make it.

Preparing Chili Mac In The Crock Pot

Cooking The Beef Mixture

To begin making chili mac in the crock pot, the first step is preparing the flavorful beef mixture. This creates a rich, hearty base that makes every bite irresistible.

Start by adding a drizzle of oil to a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the ground beef, diced onion, chopped green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook everything together for about 3 to 5 minutes until the beef is browned and crumbly. While cooking, use a spatula to crumble the beef and make sure there are no big pieces remaining. Browning the beef before adding it to the slow cooker builds a deeper, richer flavor that will soak into the pasta and beans later.

When the beef is fully cooked, carefully drain off any excess grease to avoid an oily finished dish. Then, transfer the beef, onion, bell pepper, and garlic mixture directly into your slow cooker insert.

Check out our Easy Taco Meat Recipe to learn more beef browning techniques for quick dinners.

Adding Beans, Broth, And Seasonings

Next, it’s time to add the rest of the ingredients to turn your beef mixture into a delicious chili base. Pour in the pinto beans, crushed or diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Combine all the components together until they are fully integrated.

Sprinkle in your homemade chili seasoning blend – chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir again to evenly distribute all the spices into the mixture. This combination creates that signature chili mac flavor you crave.

Finally, cover the slow cooker with its lid. If you want dinner ready sooner, cook on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours. For an easy all-day meal, cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours. The longer it cooks, the deeper and richer the flavors become, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that makes everyone hungry.

Cooking the beef and combining it with beans, broth, and seasonings in your crockpot is what turns simple pantry staples into a creamy, cheesy, deeply satisfying chili mac in the slow cooker recipe you’ll want to repeat over and over.

How To Make Chili Mac And Cheese In Slow Cooker

Step By Step Slow Cooker Instructions

Making chili mac in the crock pot is surprisingly easy and perfect for busy days. Once your beef mixture, beans, broth, and seasonings are in the slow cooker, cover it with the lid and choose your cooking time:

• Cook on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours if you’re short on time and need dinner ready quickly.
• Cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours if you want the flavors to meld slowly all day while you work or run errands.

About 20 minutes before serving, stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Make sure the pasta is fully submerged in the chili broth to ensure even cooking in your crock pot chili mac. Place the lid back on and let it cook for 10 to 20 minutes, or until the pasta becomes tender and perfectly cooked.

Finally, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese on top just before serving. It will melt into a gooey, cheesy layer that makes this chili mac in the crock pot recipe so comforting and delicious.

Tips For Perfect Chili Mac Texture

To keep your chili mac in the crock pot creamy and avoid mushy pasta, follow these simple tips:

• Use elbow macaroni or similar short pasta shapes that cook evenly in the slow cooker chili mac.
• Don’t add pasta too early. To avoid overcooking, make sure to add it at the end of the cooking process.
• Stir before serving. This distributes the melted cheese evenly for maximum creaminess in your chili mac crockpot dinner.
• Add extra broth if needed. If your chili mac in the crock pot looks too thick after adding pasta, pour in a splash of beef broth to loosen it up.

Following these simple steps ensures your chili mac in the crock pot is flavorful, creamy, and perfectly cooked every single time.

Instant Pot Chili Mac Instructions

Preparing Ingredients For Instant Pot

If you’re short on time but still craving chili mac in the crock pot flavors, using an Instant Pot is a quick and efficient alternative. Start by prepping your ingredients just as you would for the slow cooker version:

• Ground beef, onion, bell pepper, and garlic should be chopped and ready to go.
• Measure out your pinto beans, crushed or diced tomatoes, beef broth, elbow macaroni, and cheddar cheese.
• Keep your seasoning mix – chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper – close by to layer flavors effectively.

Cooking Steps For Instant Pot Chili Mac

To make chili mac in the crock pot style but in your Instant Pot, follow these simple steps:

1. Turn on sauté mode on your Instant Pot. Add a drizzle of oil and let it heat for a minute.
2. Toss in the ground beef, diced onion, chopped green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, crumbling the beef as it browns. Drain excess grease if needed.
3. Sprinkle in your seasonings – chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper – and stir to combine.
4. Add the uncooked elbow macaroni directly on top of the beef mixture. Do not stir.
5. Pour the crushed or diced tomatoes and beef broth over the pasta layer. Again, do not stir to avoid the burn warning on your Instant Pot.
6. Seal the lid and set your Instant Pot to high pressure for 5 minutes.
7. When cooking is complete, quick release the pressure carefully.
8. Stir everything together, then add the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.

This method creates a creamy, cheesy, flavorful chili mac in minutes. It’s ideal when you want the taste of chili mac in the crock pot but don’t have hours to wait. Plus, cleanup is minimal since everything cooks in one pot.

Serving Suggestions For Crockpot Chili Mac

Best Toppings And Garnishes

Once your chili mac in the crock pot is ready, elevate it with toppings that add texture, color, and fresh flavor. Here are the best garnishes to serve with your cheesy chili mac:

• Sour Cream: Offers a soothing, creamy complement to the warm, zesty chili.
• Chopped Fresh Cilantro or Parsley: Brightens the dish and adds a pop of green.
• Sliced Green Onions: Gives a mild crunch and subtle sharpness.
• Smashed Tortilla Chips: Delivers a salty crunch that pairs excellently with cheesy pasta.
• Ultra Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Ideal for a perfectly gooey, melted cheese layer.
• Diced or Pickled Jalapeños: Ideal for those who enjoy a fiery flavor boost.

Check out our Creamy Jalapeno Ranch Dressing to drizzle over your chili mac for extra zest.

Side Dishes That Pair Well

Although chili mac in the crock pot is a filling meal on its own, pairing it with a light side dish balances out the richness. Try serving it with:

• Simple Garden Salad: Crisp lettuce, cucumbers, and tomatoes tossed in a light vinaigrette.
• Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans: Adds a healthy vegetable boost.
• Cornbread Muffins: The sugary notes of cornbread complement the heat of chili wonderfully.
• Garlic Bread: Great for gathering up each cheesy piece.

Looking for inspiration? Try this Quick Honey Butter Cornbread recipe for the perfect sweet-savory side.

These serving ideas make your chili mac in the crock pot dinner feel complete and restaurant-worthy, whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy weeknight or feeding a hungry game day crowd.

Storage, Freezing, And Reheating Tips

How To Store And Reheat Leftovers

If you have leftover chili mac in the crock pot, storing and reheating it properly keeps it tasting just as delicious the next day. Here’s how:

• Storage: Let your chili mac cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.Refrigerate for no longer than 4 days.
• Heating Again: For reheating, use a microwave-safe container. Add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen up the sauce and keep it creamy. Cover and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through until heated evenly.
• Stovetop Method for Reheating: Alternatively, you can reheat it on the stovetop at medium-low heat, incorporating a splash of broth if needed to prevent it from sticking.

Don’t miss our Leftover Ground Beef Recipes for more delicious ways to use extra cooked beef.

Can You Freeze Chili Mac?

Yes, you can freeze chili mac in the crock pot for a quick future meal. However, keep these tips in mind to maintain texture:

• Ensure it is completely cooled prior to freezing to avoid the development of condensation and ice crystals.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little space for expansion.
• Indicate the date and keep frozen for as long as 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop with extra beef broth to keep the pasta from drying out.

Looking for inspiration? Explore this Freezer-Friendly Chili Recipe for your meal prep needs.

Proper storage and reheating ensure your chili mac in the crock pot stays creamy, flavorful, and satisfying whether eaten fresh or as a quick leftover dinner.

Common Mistakes And Troubleshooting

Why Is My Chili Mac Too Watery?

If your chili mac in the crock pot turns out watery, don’t worry – it’s an easy fix. This often happens when:

• The lid stays on the entire time. Unlike stovetop cooking, slow cookers retain all liquid, so your chili mac may need thickening.
• Solution: Remove the lid during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking to let excess moisture evaporate. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Too much broth added: Always measure your broth carefully. If it’s still thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then stir it into your chili mac. Let it cook for a few extra minutes until it thickens.

Learn more about thickening tips in our Slow Cooker Soups Guide here.

How To Fix Overcooked Pasta In Crockpot

Overcooked pasta can make your chili mac in the crock pot mushy instead of creamy and tender. Here’s how to avoid this:

• Add pasta towards the end. Always stir in your uncooked elbow macaroni during the last 10-20 minutes of cooking.
• Use the right pasta type. Stick to sturdy pastas like elbow macaroni, rotini, or penne.
• If it’s already overcooked: Unfortunately, mushy pasta can’t be fixed, but you can balance the texture by adding extra shredded cheddar cheese or topping each serving with crushed tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast.

Looking for inspiration? Try this Crockpot Beef and Shells Pasta for another cheesy slow cooker dinner with perfect pasta texture.

Following these troubleshooting tips ensures your chili mac in the crock pot turns out creamy, cheesy, and perfectly cooked every single time.

Conclusion

Final Thoughts On Making Chili Mac In The Crock Pot

Chili mac in the crock pot is the ultimate comfort food mash-up that combines everything you love about chili and creamy mac and cheese into one easy, hearty dinner. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight, hosting a game day gathering, or simply craving a warm, cheesy meal after a long day, this recipe never disappoints.

With its rich ground beef, pinto beans, tender elbow macaroni, and gooey melted cheddar, each spoonful feels like a hug for your soul. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile – you can swap ingredients, adjust spices, or make it vegetarian while still keeping it flavorful and satisfying.

If you loved this recipe, explore more of our comforting crockpot meals to fill your kitchen with delicious aromas and easy dinners.

Don’t miss our collection of Slow Cooker Recipes to inspire your next weeknight dinner here.

Thank you for joining me on this flavorful journey. Remember, food made with love is always the best kind.

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