Warm up with this hearty Slow Cooker Chili Mac recipe—easy, comforting, and perfect for cozy weeknight dinners. This one-pot wonder combines tender pasta, rich chili flavors, and melted cheese, making it an effortless meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re meal prepping or feeding a hungry crowd, Slow Cooker Chili Mac has you covered with minimal hands-on time and maximum deliciousness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hands-off cooking: Toss everything in your slow cooker and let it work its magic while you relax or tackle other tasks.
- Comfort food classic: Combines two favorites—chili and macaroni—into one satisfying, cheesy dish.
- Budget-friendly ingredients: Uses pantry staples that won’t break the bank but deliver big, bold flavor.
- Family-friendly: Mild yet flavorful, it’s a recipe that everyone from kids to adults will enjoy.
- Perfect for leftovers: Tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Slow Cooker Chili Mac lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each component adds a layer of flavor, texture, or color, making the final dish irresistibly delicious without complicated prep.
- Ground beef or turkey: Adds protein and a hearty base; turkey is a great lean option.
- Onion and garlic: Fresh aromatics that build depth and warmth in every bite.
- Canned diced tomatoes: Provide acidity and brightness to balance the richness.
- Kidney beans or black beans: Boost protein and add a creamy texture to each spoonful.
- Beef broth or stock: Keeps the chili mac juicy and infuses savory flavor.
- Elbow macaroni: The star pasta choice for classic chili mac, holding sauce perfectly.
- Chili powder and spices: Warm, smoky notes that define the chili flavor.
- Cheddar cheese: Melts into the dish for creamy texture and sharp taste.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance all the natural flavors.
Variations for Slow Cooker Chili Mac
This recipe is incredibly flexible, inviting you to customize based on what you have on hand or your dietary needs. Experimenting is half the fun, and you can easily tweak ingredients to make this your own.
- Vegetarian twist: Swap ground meat for extra beans, lentils, or plant-based crumbles for a meat-free option.
- Spicy upgrade: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a kick of heat.
- Cheese variations: Try pepper jack, mozzarella, or a blend for different cheesy profiles.
- Different pasta shapes: Use shells, rotini, or penne if you prefer a change from elbow macaroni.
- Slow cooker to stovetop: Make it quicker by cooking in a large pot if you’re short on time.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chili Mac
Step 1: Brown the Meat and Aromatics
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and browning the ground beef or turkey with chopped onion and minced garlic. Cooking these separately intensifies their flavors before adding them to the slow cooker.
Step 2: Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker
Transfer the browned meat and aromatics into your slow cooker. Pour in canned diced tomatoes, beans, beef broth, and sprinkle in chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything to combine evenly.
Step 3: Add Pasta and Cook
Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni, ensuring it’s submerged in liquid. Set your slow cooker on low and cook for 3 to 4 hours until the pasta is tender and the chili is thickened.
Step 4: Stir in Cheese and Serve
About 10 minutes before serving, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese into the slow cooker and stir until melted and creamy. Serve hot, garnished as desired.
Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Chili Mac
- Use quality beef broth: It enhances the chili’s savory depth more than water or bouillon cubes.
- Add pasta later: Wait until the last few hours of cooking to add macaroni to avoid mushy noodles.
- Don’t skip browning: Searing meat and aromatics adds a rich, caramelized flavor that slow cooking alone can’t replicate.
- Adjust thickness: If too thick, stir in extra broth; if too thin, cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to reduce liquid.
- Cheese variety: Mixing mild and sharp cheese can create a balanced creaminess with a little tang.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chili Mac
Garnishes
Top your Slow Cooker Chili Mac with fresh chopped cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, sliced green onions, or diced avocados to add brightness and complementary textures.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside a crisp green salad, buttery cornbread, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, spoon your chili mac into hollowed-out bell peppers or stuff it inside baked potatoes for hearty, eye-catching presentations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Slow Cooker Chili Mac in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days for convenient, ready-to-go meals.
Freezing
This dish freezes wonderfully—portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick to restore the creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use different kinds of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, other pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne work well and hold the chili sauce nicely.
Is Slow Cooker Chili Mac gluten-free?
It can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and ensuring all canned ingredients are labeled gluten-free.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the meat with extra beans, lentils, or plant-based protein substitutes for a delicious vegetarian version.
How long can I leave it in the slow cooker?
Cooking on low for 3 to 4 hours is ideal; longer cooking can over-soften the pasta and alter texture.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Cheddar is classic and melts well, but feel free to experiment with pepper jack, mozzarella, or a cheese blend for varying flavors.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a cozy, fuss-free meal that delivers on flavor and warmth, Slow Cooker Chili Mac is your go-to. With its unbeatable combination of comforting ingredients and effortless prep, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite in your dinner rotation. Don’t wait for a chilly evening—try it out and enjoy that cozy, hearty feeling in every bite.