Slow Cooker Chili Mac and Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Meal
A hearty Slow Cooker Chili Mac and Cheese made with seasoned beef, beans, tomatoes, pasta, and cheddar cheese. A bold, creamy one-pot comfort food dish perfect for busy nights.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef, seasoned with salt and pepper
8 ounces uncooked elbow macaroni
Two 15-ounce cans pinto beans, drained and rinsed
3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
24 ounces diced or crushed tomatoes
2 cups beef broth
1/2 cup diced onion
1 diced bell pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chili powder
2 teaspoons cumin
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 tablespoon oil
Instructions
1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add ground beef, onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
3. Cook 3-5 minutes until beef is browned. Drain grease.
4. Transfer mixture to a slow cooker.
5. Add pinto beans, tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, paprika, oregano, and pepper. Stir well.
6. Cook on HIGH for 3-4 hours or LOW for 6-8 hours.
7. Stir in uncooked macaroni and 2 cups cheddar cheese.
8. Cook an additional 10-20 minutes until pasta is tender.
9. Top with remaining 1 cup of cheese before serving.
Notes
Use crushed or diced tomatoes based on your preferred texture.
Add jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat.
Instant Pot instructions can also be used for quicker cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving