Table of Contents
Introduction
Crockpot Chili Mac is the ultimate comfort food, combining the rich, hearty flavors of classic chili with the cheesy goodness of mac and cheese. This easy, slow-cooked Crockpot Chilli Mac Recipe is packed with seasoned ground beef, tender beans, tangy tomatoes, and creamy cheddar cheese, all mixed with perfectly cooked elbow macaroni. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or feeding a crowd.
What Is Crockpot Chili Mac?
Crockpot Chili Mac is a delicious fusion of two classic dishes: chili and macaroni. The slow cooker does all the work, letting the flavors meld together while creating a thick and flavorful sauce. Unlike traditional stovetop chili, this version has the bonus of pasta, making it a complete and satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Effortless & Hands-Off Cooking – Just toss the ingredients into the crockpot and let it do the work.
Packed with Bold Flavors – The perfect blend of spices, beef, beans, and tomatoes creates a rich and satisfying dish.
Great for Meal Prep – It reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers or batch cooking.
Kid-Friendly & Family Approved – The creamy cheese and mild spice level make it a hit with all ages.
Ingredients
- Ground beef= 1 pound
- Diced yellow onion= 1
- Diced green pepper= 1
- Packet chili seasoning= 1 ounce
- kidney beans (drained and rinsed)= 2 (15 ounce) can
- Rotel tomatoes= 1 (10 ounce) can
- Tomato sauce= 1 (29 ounce) can
- Tomato paste= 3 tablespoons
- Water= 2 cups
- Elbow macaroni (uncooked)= 3 cups
- Cheddar cheese (shredded)= 2 cups
Step-by-Step Method For Making Crockpot Chilli Mac
Step 1
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned, about 6–7 minutes. Drain any excess fat and transfer the beef to a 6-quart slow cooker.
Step 2
To the slow cooker, add the onion, green pepper, chili seasoning, kidney beans, Rotel tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and water. Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 3
Cover and cook on high for 4 hours or on low for 6 hours.
Step 4
About 45 minutes before the cooking time is up, stir in the pasta and continue cooking.
Step 5
Once the pasta is tender, stir in 1 cup of cheddar cheese. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
Step 6
Serve the chili hot, garnished with extra cheese or your favorite toppings.
Tips for the Best Crockpot Chili Mac
To ensure your Crockpot Chili Mac turns out flavorful, rich, and perfectly cooked every time, follow these expert tips!
How to Make It Extra Flavorful
Brown the Meat First – While you could add raw ground beef to the slow cooker, browning it beforehand with onions and garlic enhances the depth of flavor.
Use Fire-Roasted Tomatoes – Fire-roasted tomatoes add a smoky, slightly sweet taste that elevates the chili base.
Layer Your Seasonings – Instead of just using a chili seasoning packet, add extra garlic powder, cumin, smoked paprika, or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for a more robust taste.
Simmer Low & Slow – Letting the chili cook for at least 6 hours on low allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Stir in Cheese at the End – Mixing in cheddar cheese after cooking makes the dish creamy and prevents it from getting grainy.
Adjusting the Spice Level
Mild Version: Use mild chili seasoning, skip the Rotel tomatoes (or use plain diced tomatoes), and leave out the chili powder or red pepper flakes.
Medium Heat: Follow the recipe as is, or add a pinch of cayenne for a little extra kick.
Extra Spicy: Add diced jalapeños, an extra teaspoon of chili powder, and a few dashes of hot sauce. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicier twist!
Final Thoughts
Crockpot Chili Mac is the perfect balance of hearty, cheesy, and comforting flavors—all made effortlessly in a slow cooker. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or serving a crowd, this dish is sure to be a hit. With its bold chili flavors, creamy cheese, and tender pasta, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again.
I hope this Crockpot Chili Mac becomes a go-to favorite in your kitchen. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings, spice levels, or cheese blends to make it your own. Enjoy every bite, and happy cooking!
More Recipes:
Pokeworks Classic Sauce Recipe
Crockpot Chilli Mac Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound Ground beef
- 1 Diced yellow onion
- 1 Diced green pepper
- 1 ounce Packet chili seasoning
- 2 (15 ounce) can kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 (10 ounce) can Rotel tomatoes
- 1 (29 ounce) can Tomato sauce
- 3 tablespoons Tomato paste
- 2 cups Water
- 3 cups Elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 2 cups Cheddar cheese (shredded)
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned, about 6–7 minutes. Drain any excess fat and transfer the beef to a 6-quart slow cooker.
- To the slow cooker, add the onion, green pepper, chili seasoning, kidney beans, Rotel tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and water. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Cover and cook on high for 4 hours or on low for 6 hours.
- About 45 minutes before the cooking time is up, stir in the pasta and continue cooking.
- Once the pasta is tender, stir in 1 cup of cheddar cheese. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Serve the chili hot, garnished with extra cheese or your favorite toppings.
Norma Parker is a recipe creator at Nomqom.com. She shares simple, tasty, and easy home-cooking ideas for everyday meals. Her goal is to help home cooks make delicious food with confidence.