Introduction
Welcome to the ultimate comfort food experience with our Family-Friendly Slow Cooker Chili Mac and Cheese! This delightful dish combines the rich, hearty flavors of classic chili with the creamy, cheesy goodness of macaroni and cheese, making it a sure hit for both kids and adults alike. It’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, as it requires minimal prep time and cooks up effortlessly in your slow cooker.
Imagine coming home after a long day to the enticing aroma of savory chili wafting through your home, ready to be served up with a side of cheesy, gooey goodness. This recipe not only satisfies those craving comfort food but also packs in plenty of protein and fiber, thanks to the beans and ground meat. Plus, you can easily customize this dish to suit your family’s tastes—add extra veggies, swap in different types of cheese, or adjust the spice level to keep everyone happy at the dinner table.
So gather your ingredients, dust off that slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy a warm and hearty bowl of chili mac and cheese that will have everyone asking for seconds! Let’s dive into the recipe and make mealtime a breeze!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (any variety)
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with their juices)
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 2 cups low-sodium beef or chicken broth
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 lb elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (reserve some for topping)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnishing)
Instructions
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- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey thoroughly, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain off any excess fat if needed.
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- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
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- Move the cooked meat and vegetable combination to the slow cooker.
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- Incorporate the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and broth, mixing well.
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- Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper, ensuring all spices are well distributed.
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- Cover and set to cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours.
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- Approximately 30 minutes prior to serving, stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Cover and cook until the pasta reaches tenderness.
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- After the pasta is cooked, mix in the shredded cheddar cheese until it is melted and gooey. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.
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- Serve while hot, topped with extra cheese and chopped parsley for garnish.
- Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 4 hours 30 min | Servings: 6
Key Ingredients
- Ground Beef or Turkey – 1 pound for a hearty protein base.
- Chopped Onion – 1 medium onion, diced for flavor and texture.
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced for an aromatic kick.
- Bell Peppers – 1 cup, chopped (any color) for sweetness and color.
- Diced Tomatoes – 1 can (14.5 ounces) to add moisture and acidity.
- Tomato Sauce – 1 can (15 ounces) for a rich tomato flavor.
- Kidney Beans – 1 can (15 ounces), drained and rinsed, for additional protein and fiber.
- Beef or Vegetable Broth – 2 cups for the base of the chili.
- Chili Powder – 2 tablespoons for a classic chili flavor.
- Cumin – 1 teaspoon for warmth and earthiness.
- Paprika – 1 teaspoon for a smoky hint.
- Macaroni Pasta – 2 cups for the comforting grain addition.
- Cheddar Cheese – 2 cups, shredded for the ultimate cheesy goodness.
- Salt and Pepper – To taste for seasoning.
Optional Toppings:
– Sour cream or Greek yogurt
– Chopped green onions
– Fresh cilantro
– Sliced jalapeños
Baking Process for Family-Friendly Slow Cooker Chili Mac and Cheese
Cooking your Family-Friendly Slow Cooker Chili Mac and Cheese in a slow cooker simplifies the process and enhances the flavors. Here’s how to get it just right:
Ingredients Preparation
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Gather Ingredients: Ensure you have all your ingredients ready: elbow macaroni, ground beef or turkey, canned diced tomatoes, kidney beans, chili beans, tomato sauce, broth, and spices like chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Don’t forget your cheese!
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Brown the Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, brown your ground meat until it’s fully cooked. This step adds depth to your dish and ensures your meat is well-seasoned before going into the slow cooker. Once done, drain any excess fat.
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Chop Vegetables: Although optional for a smoother texture, diced onions, bell peppers, and garlic can be added for extra flavor. Sauté them briefly in your skillet for a few minutes to soften before adding them to the slow cooker alongside the browned meat.
Layering in the Slow Cooker
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Combine Ingredients: In your slow cooker, combine the cooked meat, sautéed vegetables, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, chili beans, tomato sauce, broth, and spices. Stir well to mix everything together evenly.
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Add the Pasta: Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. It’s important to add the pasta at this stage, so it absorbs the flavors and provides that comforting texture.
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Adjust Liquid: If needed, ensure there is enough liquid in the slow cooker to prevent the pasta from drying out. You can adjust with additional broth or water; however, be cautious, as overdoing it can lead to a watery chili mac.
Slow Cooking
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Set the Temperature: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors will meld together.
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Stir Occasionally: If you’re home, give it a stir once or twice during cooking. This helps prevent the pasta from settling at the bottom and ensures even cooking.
Adding Cheese
- Incorporate Cheese: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in your shredded cheese (cheddar is a popular choice). Cover the slow cooker again to let the cheese melt into the chili mac mixture.
Final Touches
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Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste your chili mac. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or spices according to your preference.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once everything is perfectly cooked and deliciously cheesy, spoon the chili mac into bowls. Garnish with fresh herbs, sour cream, or additional cheese if desired.
This Family-Friendly Slow Cooker Chili Mac and Cheese is sure to be a hit at the dinner table, combining the comforting flavors of chili with the creamy goodness of mac and cheese. Enjoy your meal!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying your Family-Friendly Slow Cooker Chili Mac and Cheese, there are plenty of delicious ways to elevate your meal experience. Here are some serving suggestions that will complement the dish perfectly:
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Toppings Bar: Set up a toppings bar with a variety of options such as shredded cheese, diced green onions, sour cream, chopped fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, and crushed tortilla chips for added crunch.
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Fresh Side Salad: Serve with a light and refreshing side salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a zesty vinaigrette to balance the richness of the chili mac.
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Cornbread: A warm, buttery cornbread pairs wonderfully with chili mac. You can serve it on the side or even crumble it on top for added texture.
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Garlic Bread: For a hearty twist, serve slices of garlic bread or breadsticks on the side, which are perfect for soaking up any extra sauce in your bowl.
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Avocado Slices: Adding some sliced or diced avocado brings a creamy element that complements the spices in the chili, creating a delicious contrast.
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Pickled Veggies: Serve alongside a small dish of quick-pickled red onions or jalapeños for a tangy crunch to brighten up the flavors.
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Hot Sauce: For those who like a bit of heat, provide a selection of hot sauces so everyone can customize their bowls to their preferred spice level.
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Fruit Salad: A simple fruit salad or skewers with seasonal fruit can provide a refreshing and sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the chili mac.
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Beverage Pairings: Consider serving with a chilled glass of lemonade, iced tea, or a light lager beer to help cleanse the palate and enhance the meal.
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Dessert Finish: Round off the meal with a light dessert such as brownies, fruit sorbet, or apple pie to satisfy the sweet tooth without overwhelming the savory flavors.
By incorporating some of these serving suggestions, you can create a fun and interactive dining experience that the whole family will love. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Conclusion
This Family-Friendly Slow Cooker Chili Mac and Cheese is the perfect dish for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. With its rich, cheesy flavor and hearty ingredients, it’s a one-pot wonder that everyone in the family will love. The convenience of the slow cooker allows for a hands-off cooking experience, making it easy to prepare and enjoy without the fuss. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies and protein while satisfying those carb cravings!
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your family’s favorite toppings, such as jalapeños, sour cream, or extra cheese. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a game day gathering, or a potluck, this dish is sure to be a hit. So grab your slow cooker, gather the ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a hearty, comforting meal that’s simple to make and bursting with flavor. Happy cooking!
