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Looking for a hearty and delicious meal that practically cooks itself? Look no further than this Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac recipe! Trust me, this dish is a game-changer, especially during those hectic weeks when time seems to slip through your fingers. Picture tender ground beef, al dente macaroni, zesty chili beans, and gooey cheddar cheese all mingling together in your slow cooker, creating a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds dancing.
The beauty of this Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac is that it’s not just about convenience—it’s about pure comfort and satisfaction. Imagine coming home to the mouthwatering aroma of this comforting dish, ready to warm you up from the inside out. Even the pickiest eaters in my household couldn’t resist seconds of this flavorful mashup, proving that sometimes the best recipes are the simplest ones. So, whether you’re juggling a chaotic schedule or just craving a cozy meal that hits all the right notes, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen rotation.
Quick Benefits
- Convenience: Perfect for hectic days when you need a meal that practically cooks itself while you’re on-the-go.
- Versatility: Easily customizable with different beans, vegetables, and meats to suit your preferences.
- Make-ahead and Freezer-friendly: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months, making it a great make-ahead option for busy days.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Crockpot Cheddar Chili Mac Recipe Recipe
- Convenience: Perfect for busy nights when you need a hands-off dinner option that cooks itself in the slow cooker.
- Family-approved: Even picky eaters like teenagers and mother-in-laws will love this comforting and flavorful dish.
- Flavorful mashup: A delicious combination of chili and mac and cheese flavors in one satisfying meal.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable with different types of beans, vegetables, or protein options to suit personal preferences.
- Make-ahead: Tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.
- Freezer-friendly: Can be frozen for up to 3 months, offering a quick and convenient meal option for future busy days.
- Minimal effort, maximum satisfaction: Proves that simple one-pot meals can be incredibly delicious and satisfying without a lot of work.
Ingredients for Creamy Crockpot Cheddar Chili Mac Recipe
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup uncooked macaroni, cooked al dente
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 10.5 oz can diced tomatoes with green chiles, drained
- 1 lb lean ground beef, browned and drained
- 15 oz can mild chili beans, undrained
How to Make Creamy Crockpot Cheddar Chili Mac Recipe
Step 1: Combine ingredients
Combine all ingredients, excluding the shredded cheddar cheese, in a 4-quart slow cooker and mix well.
Step 2: Add cheese topping
Evenly distribute the cheddar cheese on top of the mixture.
Step 3: Cook in slow cooker
Cook covered on low for 2 hours or high for 1-1.5 hours, turning the insert halfway through if needed for even cooking.
Storage Tips
Once the Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac is cooked and you have enjoyed your meal, it is essential to store any leftovers properly to maintain freshness and flavor. You can store the finished dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to meld together, often making it even more delicious the next day. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or on low in the slow cooker until warmed through.
If you have more than you can consume within 4 days, the Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Freezing can slightly alter the texture of the pasta, but it remains a convenient option for preserving the dish for future meals. When freezing, place the cooled chili mac in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, ensuring to remove any excess air before sealing. To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm in the microwave or on the stovetop. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this easy one-pot meal whenever you need a quick and satisfying dinner option.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want to switch up the beans in this Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac recipe, consider using black beans or kidney beans for a different flavor profile. These beans will still provide that hearty texture and protein content while adding a unique twist to the dish. If you want to incorporate more vegetables, try adding corn or diced bell peppers for extra color and nutrients. These additions will complement the flavors of the dish and add a bit of freshness to the overall meal.
For those who enjoy a bit more heat in their dishes, consider using hot diced tomatoes or adding some jalapeños to the mix. This will give the dish a spicy kick and elevate the flavor profile for those who prefer their meals on the spicier side. Additionally, if you prefer to use a leaner protein option, you can easily substitute the ground beef with ground turkey. Ground turkey works well in this recipe and provides a lighter alternative without compromising on taste. These ingredient substitutions offer versatility and allow you to customize the dish to suit your preferences and dietary needs.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate the presentation of your Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac, consider serving it in individual bread bowls. Hollow out small round bread loaves, such as sourdough, and ladle the cheesy chili mac into each bowl for a hearty and visually appealing dish. Top each bread bowl with a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar cheese and fresh chopped parsley for a touch of freshness.
For a fun twist on presentation, try assembling mini Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac sliders. Toast slider buns, spoon a generous portion of the chili mac onto the bottom half of each bun, and top with the other half. Secure with toothpicks and serve as a delightful appetizer or a creative main course for a casual gathering. Optionally, add a slice of pickled jalapeño on top for a spicy kick and a pop of color.
FAQs for Creamy Crockpot Cheddar Chili Mac Recipe
Can I use a different type of beans in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can experiment with using black beans, kidney beans, or any other beans of your choice to add variety and flavor to the dish.
How long should I cook the pasta before adding it to the slow cooker?
It’s recommended to cook the macaroni al dente before adding it to the slow cooker. This way, the pasta will finish cooking in the slow cooker without becoming mushy.
Can I freeze the leftovers of this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the crock pot cheddar chili mac for up to 3 months. However, note that the texture of the pasta may slightly change after freezing.
Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add diced bell peppers, corn, or even jalapeños for extra vegetables and flavors. Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal that practically cooks itself, look no further than this Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac. It’s a dish that brings together the best of chili and mac and cheese in one comforting bowl. The slow cooker truly works its magic, allowing you to focus on what truly matters while it simmers away, filling your home with delicious aromas.
Don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own by experimenting with different beans, vegetables, or protein options. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your personal touch, the beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and versatility. So next time you need a reliable meal for your busy weeknights, remember the ease and satisfaction that come with making this Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac.
Creamy Crockpot Cheddar Chili Mac Recipe
“Effortlessly delicious Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac combines the best of chili and mac and cheese in one comforting, easy slow cooker meal.”
Prep Time12 Minutes
Cook Time60 Minutes
Total Time72 Minutes
CuisineAmerican
Skill LevelEasy
Servings5 Servings
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup uncooked macaroni, cooked al dente
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 10.5 oz can diced tomatoes with green chiles, drained
- 1 lb lean ground beef, browned and drained
- 15 oz can mild chili beans, undrained
Instructions
-
Combine ingredients: Combine all ingredients, excluding the shredded cheddar cheese, in a 4-quart slow cooker and mix well.
-
Add cheese topping: Evenly distribute the cheddar cheese on top of the mixture.
-
Cook in slow cooker: Cook covered on low for 2 hours or high for 1-1.5 hours, turning the insert halfway through if needed for even cooking.
