Crockpot Chili Mac Recipe: Cheesy & Comforting

Craving a one-pot wonder that’s cheesy, hearty, and kid-approved? This Crockpot Chili Mac Recipe combines ground beef, pasta, beans, and bold chili spices in a creamy, melty cheese sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or game days, this gluten-free (with GF pasta) dish is ready in 4–6 hours and serves 6–8. Let’s dump, stir, and devour.

Isla Marie

Crockpot Chili Mac Recipe

This Crockpot Chili Mac Recipe features ground beef, elbow pasta, kidney beans, tomatoes, and cheddar cheese slow-cooked into a creamy, cheesy chili mac. Ready in 4–6 hours with 15 minutes of prep, it serves 6–8. Below, you’ll find ingredients, equipment, instructions, and tips for the ultimate comfort meal.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 4 hours hrs

0 minutes mins

Total Time 4 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Servings: 6

Course: Comfort Food, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb ground beef: 80/20 or lean.
• 8 oz elbow macaroni: Uncooked use gluten-free if needed.
• 1 15 oz can kidney beans: Drained and rinsed.
• 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes: With juices.
• 1 8 oz can tomato sauce: For richness.
• 1 medium onion: Diced.
• 1 green bell pepper: Diced.
• 3 cloves garlic: Minced.
• 2 tbsp chili powder: Adjust for heat.
• 1 tsp ground cumin: For depth.
• 1 tsp smoked paprika: For smokiness.
• 1/2 tsp salt: To taste.
• 1/4 tsp black pepper: Freshly ground.
• 2 cups beef broth: Low-sodium.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Divided 1.5 cups in, 0.5 cup for topping.
• Optional: 1/4 tsp cayenne for kick.
• Garnish: Green onions sour cream, crushed tortilla chips.

Equipment

• Crockpot/Slow Cooker: 6-quart.
• Large Skillet: For browning beef.
• Cutting Board and Knife: For onion, pepper, and garlic.
• Can Opener: For beans and tomatoes.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accuracy.
• Wooden Spoon: For stirring.
• Ladle for serving

Method

 

1. Brown Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned (5–7 minutes). Drain fat. Transfer to crockpot.
2. Add Ingredients: Add onion, bell pepper, garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using). Stir in kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, beef broth, and uncooked pasta.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until pasta is tender. Stir halfway to prevent sticking.
4. Add Cheese: Stir in 1.5 cups cheddar until melted and creamy (about 10 minutes on low).
5. Serve: Top with remaining 0.5 cup cheese. Ladle into bowls and garnish with green onions, sour cream, or chips.

Notes

Pasta Timing: Add pasta uncooked; it absorbs broth and cooks perfectly.

Gluten-Free: Use certified GF pasta and broth.

Make-Ahead: Brown beef and chop veggies the night before.

Creamier Version: Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream with cheese.

No Beans: Skip kidney beans for a simpler mac.

Chef’s Tips

• Stir Mid-Cook: Prevent pasta clumping with a quick stir at 2 hours (low).
• Cheese Melt: Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother melting.
• Thicken: If too soupy, cook uncovered on high last 30 minutes.
• Flavor Boost: Add 1 tsp Worcestershire or hot sauce.
• Kid-Friendly: Reduce chili powder to 1 tbsp.

Serving Suggestions

• Family Style: Serve straight from crockpot with toppings bar.
• With Sides: Pair with garlic bread or salad.
• Game Day: Keep warm on “warm” setting.
• Meal Prep: Portion with extra cheese for reheating.
• Toppings: Crushed Doritos or Fritos add crunch.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store in airtight container for 3–4 days. Reheat with splash of milk.
• Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight.
• Reheat: Microwave or stovetop; add broth if dry.
• Best Fresh: Cheese may separate if frozen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use ground turkey?
A: Yes, substitute 1:1; drain fat.

Q: Can I cook pasta separately?
A: Yes, add cooked pasta in last 30 minutes.

Q: How do I make it spicier?
A: Add 1 diced jalapeño or 1/2 tsp cayenne.

Q: Can I use different pasta?
A: Shells or rotini work; adjust broth if needed.

Q: Is it gluten-free?
A: Yes with GF pasta and broth.