A Bold and Cozy One-Pot Comfort Classic
Slow Cooker Chili Mac and Cheese blends the hearty flavor of classic chili with the creamy richness of mac and cheese. This comforting mash-up delivers bold spices, tender pasta, savory beef, and lots of melted cheddar. It’s the perfect warm dinner for busy weeknights, game day gatherings, or relaxed nights at home. With both slow cooker and Instant Pot directions, this recipe stays easy, versatile, and incredibly satisfying.
Why This Chili Mac Recipe Hits the Spot
This dish brings together two comfort staples into one effortless meal. The slow cooker builds deep flavor as the beef, broth, tomatoes, and spices simmer together. The pasta cooks right in the sauce, soaking up all the chili goodness. Cheese melts into the mixture and creates an irresistible creamy texture. Every bite is rich, hearty, and full of chili-spiced warmth.
Simple Ingredients That Create Big Flavor
Ground beef forms a savory base. Pinto beans add heartiness and protein. Elbow macaroni brings classic mac and cheese comfort. Onion, garlic, and bell pepper add fragrance and depth. Chili powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano build bold flavor. Beef broth and tomatoes create a rich sauce. Cheddar cheese finishes the dish with creamy, cheesy goodness.
Easy Slow Cooker Instructions
Brown the beef with vegetables first to build flavor. Transfer the mixture to your slow cooker and stir in beans, tomatoes, broth, and spices. After slow cooking, add macaroni and cheddar cheese. Let the pasta soften and the cheese melt. Serve warm with extra cheese or fresh herbs.
Instant Pot Instructions Included
For quicker cooking, sauté the beef and aromatics directly in the pressure cooker. Add beans, spices, pasta, tomatoes, and broth. Pressure cook for 5 minutes. Quick release the pressure and stir in cheddar cheese until creamy. Both methods make a comforting meal with little effort.
The Perfect Dish for Cozy Nights
Serve Slow Cooker Chili Mac with crusty bread, cornbread, or a fresh green salad. It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep. This family-friendly dish always gets rave reviews and is sure to earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.
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Slow Cooker Chili Mac and Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Meal
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A hearty Slow Cooker Chili Mac and Cheese made with seasoned beef, beans, tomatoes, pasta, and cheddar cheese. A bold, creamy one-pot comfort food dish perfect for busy nights.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef, seasoned with salt and pepper
8 ounces uncooked elbow macaroni
Two 15-ounce cans pinto beans, drained and rinsed
3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
24 ounces diced or crushed tomatoes
2 cups beef broth
1/2 cup diced onion
1 diced bell pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chili powder
2 teaspoons cumin
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 tablespoon oil
Instructions
1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add ground beef, onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
3. Cook 3-5 minutes until beef is browned. Drain grease.
4. Transfer mixture to a slow cooker.
5. Add pinto beans, tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, paprika, oregano, and pepper. Stir well.
6. Cook on HIGH for 3-4 hours or LOW for 6-8 hours.
7. Stir in uncooked macaroni and 2 cups cheddar cheese.
8. Cook an additional 10-20 minutes until pasta is tender.
9. Top with remaining 1 cup of cheese before serving.
Notes
Use crushed or diced tomatoes based on your preferred texture.
Add jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat.
Instant Pot instructions can also be used for quicker cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
Keywords: chili mac and cheese, slow cooker chili mac, crockpot chili mac, cheesy chili mac