Crock Pot Chili Mac
Crock Pot Chili Mac
This crock pot chili mac is the ultimate comfort food dinner. It combines hearty chili with tender macaroni and plenty of melted cheese, all made easy in the slow cooker. It’s filling, family-friendly, and perfect for busy days when you want something warm and satisfying without a lot of work.
This is one of those dinners everyone gets excited about — simple ingredients, big flavor, and lots of leftovers.
There’s something especially comforting about chili mac because it combines two classic dinners into one bowl. The chili brings that rich, slow-simmered flavor, while the pasta makes it extra filling and satisfying. It’s the kind of meal that feels familiar and cozy from the very first bite.
This crock pot chili mac is perfect for days when you don’t have time to think about dinner. Once everything is in the slow cooker, there’s very little hands-on work. You can go about your day knowing dinner will be warm, hearty, and ready when everyone’s hungry.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy slow cooker meal – Minimal prep and hands-off cooking
- Hearty and filling – Chili and pasta in one cozy bowl
- Family favorite – Mild, comforting flavors everyone loves
- Great for leftovers – Reheats beautifully the next day
- Perfect comfort food – Ideal for busy weeknights or cold evenings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (15 oz) cans chili beans (do not drain)
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
1. Brown the Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease.
Add the onion and garlic and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
2. Add to Crock Pot
Transfer the beef mixture to the crock pot.
Add:
- Chili beans
- Kidney beans
- Diced tomatoes
- Tomato sauce
- Tomato paste
- Beef broth
- All seasonings
Stir well to combine.
3. Slow Cook
Cover and cook on:
- Low for 6–7 hours, or
- High for 3–4 hours
4. Add the Macaroni
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni.
Cover and continue cooking until the pasta is tender.
5. Add Cheese & Serve
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
Serve hot.
Topping Ideas
- Extra shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped green onions
- Crushed crackers
- Hot sauce
Jennie’s Thoughts
Crock pot chili mac is one of those meals that always hits the spot. It’s warm, filling, and incredibly comforting — especially on busy nights when you want dinner to feel cozy without spending hours in the kitchen.
I love how this recipe brings everything together in one slow cooker, and the leftovers are just as good the next day.
Tips for the Best Chili Mac
- Stir the pasta in during the last 30 minutes so it doesn’t get mushy
- If it thickens too much, add a splash of broth
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt
- Adjust spice level to your taste
Storage & Leftovers
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
- Reheat on the stovetop or microwave
- Add a splash of broth when reheating if needed
This crock pot chili mac is a simple, hearty dinner that’s perfect for busy families. It’s easy to make, comforting, and always a crowd-pleaser. If you’re looking for a cozy meal that everyone will love, this one belongs on your regular rotation.
