Introduction

Imagine the heartiness of chili, the comfort of creamy macaroni and cheese, and the ease of slow-cooking all in one dish — that’s exactly what Crockpot Beef Chili Mac with Cheese delivers. This dish combines tender ground beef, rich tomato-based chili, aromatic spices, and perfectly cooked pasta coated in a cheesy sauce.

Cooking it in a crockpot allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a creamy, savory, and slightly spicy meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, casual family meals, or game-day gatherings. The slow cooker makes this a set-it-and-forget-it recipe while producing layers of bold, comforting flavors.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s an all-in-one comfort meal that pleases everyone. The combination of chili and cheesy pasta is indulgent yet familiar, and cooking it in the crockpot makes it practically effortless. The dish is hearty, flavorful, and filling, with the perfect balance of spice, savory beef, and creamy cheese. It’s the kind of meal that warms the soul, perfect for colder days or when you want a cozy, satisfying dinner without constant monitoring.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• All-in-one comfort: Chili and mac & cheese in a single dish.
• Hands-off cooking: Slow cooker allows flavors to meld effortlessly.
• Family-friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
• Customizable spice: Adjust chili powder and hot sauce to taste.
• Rich and creamy: The cheese sauce adds indulgence to a hearty chili base.

Recipe Information

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 4–5 hours on LOW or 2–3 hours on HIGH
• Total Time: 4–5 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 6–8
• Calories: ~550 kcal per serving
• Course: Main Course / Comfort Food
• Cuisine: American / Southwestern-Inspired

Ingredients

Chili Base

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Mac and Cheese

• 8 oz (225 g) elbow macaroni or cavatappi
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup sour cream

Optional Toppings

• Sliced jalapeños
• Sour cream
• Chopped green onions
• Crushed tortilla chips

Cooking Directions

Step 1: Brown the Beef (Optional but Recommended)

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic until beef is browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Transfer beef mixture to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Add Chili Ingredients

1. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, drained beans, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Slow Cook

1. Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until flavors meld and vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Cook Pasta Separately

1. Cook macaroni until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Add Cheese

1. Stir cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar, and mozzarella into the slow cooker.
2. Add cooked pasta and mix thoroughly until pasta is coated with creamy, cheesy chili sauce.

Step 6: Adjust and Serve

1. Taste and adjust seasonings.
2. Serve warm with optional toppings like sour cream, green onions, jalapeños, or crushed tortilla chips.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Brown ground beef with onion, pepper, and garlic.
2. Transfer to slow cooker and add tomatoes, tomato sauce, beans, broth, and spices.
3. Cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours.
4. Cook pasta separately until al dente.
5. Stir in cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar, and mozzarella.
6. Mix in cooked pasta.
7. Adjust seasoning, serve with toppings.

How to Serve

• Serve directly from the slow cooker or transfer to a large serving dish.
• Garnish with sour cream, chopped green onions, jalapeños, or tortilla chips for extra texture and flavor.
• Pairs well with cornbread, garlic bread, or a fresh side salad.

Recipe Tips

• Slightly undercook pasta to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with chili.
• Use a mix of cheeses for maximum creaminess and flavor.
• Brown beef for added depth, but you can skip for convenience.
• Adjust chili powder and cayenne to control spiciness.
• Stir occasionally toward the end to ensure cheese melts evenly.

Variations

1. Vegetarian Version: Replace beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils.
2. Extra Spicy: Add diced jalapeños, chipotle in adobo, or hot sauce.
3. Southwest Twist: Mix in corn kernels and chopped green chilies.
4. Cheesy Overload: Add pepper jack or Monterey Jack cheeses.
5. Baked Option: After combining pasta and chili, top with extra cheese and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes for a bubbly crust.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months (best without pasta).
• Reheating: Reheat on stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen sauce if needed.

Special Equipment Needed

• Crockpot / slow cooker
• Skillet (for browning beef, optional)
• Saucepan (for pasta)
• Spoon or spatula for stirring

FAQ

Q: Can I cook pasta directly in the slow cooker?
A: You can, but it may become mushy. Cooking pasta separately ensures perfect texture.

Q: Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
A: Yes, use the “Sauté” function to brown beef, then cook chili on high pressure for 15 minutes. Add pasta and cheese after releasing pressure.

Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
A: Yes, cook chili base in advance and store in the fridge. Add pasta and cheese before serving.

Q: Can I make this milder for kids?
A: Reduce chili powder and cayenne, or omit them entirely.

Q: Can I use different beans?
A: Absolutely! Black beans, pinto beans, or a mix of your favorites work well.

Conclusion

Crockpot Beef Chili Mac with Cheese is the ultimate comfort meal: hearty, cheesy, and full of bold, savory flavors. It combines the best of chili and macaroni and cheese in one convenient, slow-cooked dish. Perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or meal prepping, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy both kids and adults.

Once you try it, it will quickly become a favorite in your rotation of cozy, hearty meals.