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Crockpot Beef Chili Mac with Cheese

Elina James
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 hours
Total Time 5 hours 15 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 300 kcal

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

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Brown the Beef (Optional but Recommended) : In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic until beef is browned. Drain excess fat. Transfer beef mixture to the slow cooker.
  • Step 2: Add Chili Ingredients : Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, drained beans, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  • Step 3: Slow Cook : 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 : Cook macaroni until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Step 5: Add Cheese : Stir cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar, and mozzarella into the slow cooker. Add cooked pasta and mix thoroughly until pasta is coated with creamy, cheesy chili sauce.
  • Step 6: Adjust and Serve : Taste and adjust seasonings. Serve warm with optional toppings like sour cream, green onions, jalapeños, or crushed tortilla chips.