Name: Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-487722H11M21S
Total time: PT-487722H11M21S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups elbow macaroni; 1 lb ground beef (or turkey); 1 can (15 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tbsp chili powder; 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 green bell pepper, chopped; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup sour cream

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking for the ultimate cozy comfort food that’s as easy as it is satisfying, Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac will be your new go-to! Imagine tender macaroni noodles swirled in a robust, chili-spiced beef and tomato sauce, finished with a luscious swirl of melting cheddar and a dollop of sour cream. It’s bold, cheesy, and plenty hearty—a soul-warming dish guaranteed to win over family and friends, and all with the magic of your slow cooker.

Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac recipe brings big flavors from a simple list of kitchen staples. Each ingredient lends something special: heartiness, heat, color, or creamy bliss, making every bite unforgettable.

Elbow macaroni: The classic shape is perfect for holding all that rich, cheesy chili sauce.
Ground beef (or turkey): Gives the dish its savory depth; choose turkey for a leaner twist.
Fire-roasted diced tomatoes: These add a smoky, slightly sweet kick to the sauce.
Kidney beans: For pops of texture and extra protein—don’t forget to drain and rinse.
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Melts into the dish, bringing tangy creaminess to every bite.
Chili powder: The spice that gives the dish its signature chili flavor (adjust for heat preference!).
Onion, chopped: Builds a fragrant base for the whole recipe.
Garlic cloves, minced: Adds aromatic depth—nothing beats that classic combo of onion and garlic.
Low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps everything juicy and flavorful without overpowering saltiness.
Red bell pepper, chopped: Bright pops of color and a sweet crunch.
Green bell pepper, chopped: Earthy, slightly bitter notes for balance and freshness.
Sour cream: Swirled in at the finish, it turns the sauce extra creamy and tangy.

How to Make Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by firing up a skillet on medium heat and add a splash of oil. Toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic, letting them sizzle and become fragrant for about 3–4 minutes. This simple step draws out their natural sweetness and sets the flavor base for your Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

Add your ground beef or turkey to the same skillet. Break it apart and cook until it’s beautifully browned, about 5–7 minutes. Don’t forget to drain off any excess fat so your chili mac tastes rich but not greasy.

Step 3: Layer and Mix in the Crock Pot

Transfer the sautéed onions, garlic, and browned meat straight into your crock pot. Sprinkle in the dry macaroni, pour in the fire-roasted diced tomatoes (juice and all), kidney beans, both bell peppers, and chili powder. Season with salt and pepper, then pour over the chicken broth. Stir everything together so the flavors can mingle as they cook.

Step 4: Set It and Forget It

Cover your crock pot and cook on low for 4–5 hours, or crank it up to high if you need dinner sooner—2–3 hours will do the trick. You’ll know it’s ready when the pasta is gorgeously tender and everything smells irresistible.

Step 5: Add the Cheddar and Sour Cream

About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle in the cheddar cheese. Give it a stir until perfectly melted and smooth. Finally, fold in the sour cream for a luxurious creamy finish. This last-minute touch really makes Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac shine.

Step 6: Serve and Savor

Ladle the steaming hot chili mac into bowls, grab your favorite spoon, and enjoy immediately while the flavors are at their best!

How to Serve Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac

Garnishes

Elevate each bowl of Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac with a little flourish! Scatter extra cheddar on top for gooey drama, add sliced green onions, a handful of chopped cilantro, or a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips for crunch. A dollop of sour cream never hurts either—some even like a kick of hot sauce!

Side Dishes

This dish is a total meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or classic cornbread to soak up every last drop. For extra color, try roasted veggies like broccoli or a tray of roasted sweet potatoes.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting, serve Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac in mini soup crocks for a fun twist or pile it high on baked potatoes for an epic comfort food mash-up. For game day, set up a chili mac bar with assorted toppings and let guests make it their own.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let leftovers cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers. Store them in the fridge, where they’ll stay delicious for up to 4 days. Perfect for quick lunches or midweek dinners!

Freezing

Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac freezes like a dream. Cool completely before portioning into freezer-safe containers. It’ll keep well for up to 2 months; just be aware that the pasta might soften a bit after thawing, but the flavors only get deeper.

Reheating

To reheat, microwave individual portions covered until piping hot, stirring halfway through. Or gently warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or milk if it needs loosening up. Stir in a pinch of fresh cheese or a dab of sour cream just before serving to bring back that rich, just-made texture.

FAQs

Can I use different types of beans in Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac?

Absolutely! Black beans or pinto beans both make fantastic substitutes if you want to switch things up or use what’s on hand. Each brings its own unique twist to the dish.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, just leave out the ground meat and add extra beans or even crumbled tofu. Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth, and you’ve got a hearty, meatless Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac.

Do I need to cook the macaroni before adding it to the crock pot?

Nope, the beauty of this recipe is that the dry macaroni cooks right in the sauce, soaking up all the chili flavors and making for very little cleanup!

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Definitely—this recipe doubles easily! Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough, and you may need to increase the cooking time slightly. Give it a gentle stir halfway through so everything cooks evenly.

How spicy is Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac, and can I adjust the heat?

It’s mild to medium as written, with warmth from the chili powder. For more spice, add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne, or keep it gentle for younger eaters. Taste and adjust as you go!

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about a bubbling pot of Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac waiting for you after a long day—it’s pure comfort in a bowl and couldn’t be easier to pull together. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it your own. Dig in, share it, and get ready for lots of happy smiles around your table!

Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 8 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (on low) or 2 hours 15 minutes (on high)
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac recipe combines the flavors of hearty chili with creamy cheddar cheese and tender macaroni, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker.

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant (3-4 minutes).
Cook the Meat: Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet and cook until browned (5-7 minutes); drain excess fat.
Layer Ingredients in the Crock Pot: In the slow cooker, layer cooked meat, elbow macaroni, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, bell peppers, chicken broth, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours until pasta is tender.
Add Cheese and Cream: About 15 minutes before serving, stir in grated cheddar cheese until melted; mix in sour cream for extra creaminess.
Serve: Serve hot and enjoy!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours on low or 2 hours on high
Category: Main Dish
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American