One-pot comfort food that's easy, cheesy, and perfect for any occasion!
This crockpot chili mac cheese recipe is the ultimate comfort food! Savory ground beef, hearty beans, tender pasta, and melted cheese cook in one pot for easy cleanup. Ready in 4 hours, it's perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd.
This one-pot wonder combines the best of chili and macaroni and cheese in a rich, cheesy, beefy dish that's perfect for cold evenings. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it's a crowd-pleaser that's easy to customize.
The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly while you focus on other tasks. Top with sour cream and green onions for a fresh finish.
Whether you're feeding a family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress with its hearty texture and comforting taste.
Let's dive into why this recipe is a must-try and how to make it your own!
Why This Recipe Works
One-Pot Convenience
All ingredients cook together in the crockpot, reducing cleanup to just one pot. No need to switch pans or worry about burning!
Budget-Friendly
Uses affordable staples like ground beef, beans, and pasta to create a hearty, satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
Family-Friendly
Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy, beefy flavor. The texture is perfect for picky eaters too!
Make-Ahead Friendly
Prep ingredients in advance and store in the fridge until cooking day. The crockpot handles the rest!
Crockpot Chili Mac & Cheese
Hearty, cheesy, and ready in 4 hours!
Ingredients
- - 1 lb ground beef
- - 2 (15 oz) cans chili beans, drained
- - 2 cups elbow macaroni
- - 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- - 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- - 2 tbsp chili powder
- - 1 tbsp cumin
- - 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- - Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Brown Beef: In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
💡 Tip: Use a non-stick skillet for easier cleanup.
Combine Ingredients: Add cooked beef, beans, macaroni, tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to the crockpot.
💡 Tip: Add the pasta last to prevent it from becoming too soft.
Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
💡 Tip: Low setting gives the flavors more time to develop.
Add Cheese: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
💡 Tip: Add cheese earlier if you prefer a creamier texture.
Serve: Garnish with sour cream and green onions. Serve warm.
💡 Tip: Let sit for 5 minutes before serving for cleaner portions.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Ground Beef
Provides rich flavor and hearty texture. For a leaner version, use ground turkey or chicken.
Substitutions: Ground turkey, plant-based meat, or extra firm tofu.
Chili Beans
Adds protein and depth. Black beans or kidney beans work equally well.
Substitutions: Additional ground beef, lentils, or navy beans.
Cheddar Cheese
Melts smoothly for a creamy texture. Sharp cheddar provides more flavor than mild.
Substitutions: Colby-Jack, Gouda, or a cheese blend.
Macaroni
Elbow macaroni holds sauce well. Can substitute with penne or ziti.
Substitutions: Rotini, rigatoni, or gluten-free pasta.
Pro Tips for Perfect Crockpot Chili Mac
Flavor Boost
Add a splash of beer or broth for extra richness and moisture.
Texture Tip
Stir the mixture occasionally during cooking to prevent pasta from sticking.
Make-Ahead Tip
Prepare ingredients up to a day in advance and store in the fridge.
Storage Tip
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.
Variations & Customizations
Vegetarian Version
Replace ground beef with 1 cup of lentils or crumbled tofu. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
Spicy Kick
Add 1-2 tsp of hot sauce or a diced jalapeño for extra heat.
Cheesy Upgrade
Top with extra cheese or a layer of melted mozzarella before serving.
Low-Carb Option
Use zucchini noodles or shirataki pasta instead of regular macaroni.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Warm cornbread for a classic comfort food combo
- Garlic bread for a crispy texture contrast
- Steamed green beans for a fresh side
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a hoppy beer like an IPA.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare the crockpot ingredients up to a day in advance and store in the fridge. Cook as directed when ready.
Refrigerator Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave.
Freezer Storage
Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating Instructions
Stir well before reheating. Add a splash of broth or milk to restore moisture if needed.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: Why is my chili mac too dry?
A: Add more broth or water. The crockpot may have evaporated excess liquid.
Q: Can I use fresh pasta?
A: Yes, but cook it 1-2 minutes less to prevent overcooking in the crockpot.
Q: How to prevent cheese from clumping?
A: Stir frequently when adding cheese. Pre-shred cheese for better distribution.
Q: Can I use a slow cooker liner?
A: Yes! It makes cleanup easier and prevents sticking.
Final Thoughts
This crockpot chili mac cheese is the ultimate comfort food that brings the whole family to the table. With its rich, cheesy flavor and hearty texture, it's perfect for any occasion. The one-pot convenience makes it ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to impress. Don't forget to share your creations on Pinterest and tag us for a chance to be featured!
