When the weather turns chilly or you find yourself in need of a hearty, satisfying meal, nothing beats the comforting embrace of a good chili mac. Slow Cooker Chili Mac is not just a meal; it’s an experience that warms you from the inside out. With its robust flavors and creamy texture, this dish promises to be your new go-to comfort food. Gather your ingredients and let the slow cooker work its magic while you relax or prepare for your day ahead.
Why We Love This Slow Cooker Chili Mac
This Slow Cooker Chili Mac is a delightful blend of classic chili flavors and the beloved pasta dish, creating a unique combination that tantalizes your taste buds. The slow cooking process allows all the ingredients to meld together beautifully, resulting in a rich, savory dish that feels like a warm hug on a cold day. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to prepare. You can set it, forget it, and come back to a meal that’s ready to serve. Even better, it’s versatile enough for anyone to enjoy, whether you’re a meat lover or looking for a healthier twist. It also gives you the chance to customize each bowl with your favorite toppings!
Ingredients about Slow Cooker Chili Mac
To whip up this delightful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef or chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional toppings: sour cream, green onions, jalapeños
How to Make Slow Cooker Chili Mac Directions
Creating this blissful dish is a straightforward process. Start by cooking the ground beef (or turkey) in a skillet over medium heat. Add in the diced onion and cook until everything is browned—around 6 to 8 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Once done, drain any excess fat to ensure you’re left with a nice, lean meat mixture.
After that, transfer this cooked mixture into your slow cooker. This next step is where the flavors really begin to shine—add the kidney beans, undrained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and your choice of beef or chicken broth. Then comes the seasoning! Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. The aromas will start to blend, creating a mouthwatering scent that will whet your appetite.
Now that everything is combined, cover your slow cooker and set it to cook. If you’re short on time, you can opt for the high setting and let it simmer for around 2 to 3 hours. For those more leisurely afternoons, the low setting is perfect for a slow cook of 4 to 5 hours.
About 20-25 minutes before you plan to enjoy your chili mac, stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. This timing allows the pasta to cook perfectly without getting mushy. Cover the slow cooker again and continue cooking on high until the pasta is tender. Just a few minutes before serving, add in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it melts and turns everything creamy and delightful.
Finally, you can serve this warm dish right from the slow cooker. Don’t forget to set out optional toppings like sour cream, sliced green onions, or jalapeños to let everyone customize their bowl just the way they like!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Chili Mac
Serving Slow Cooker Chili Mac is as enjoyable as making it. You want each bowl to be inviting, so start with a generous scoop of the warm chili mac straight from the slow cooker. Present it in wide, shallow bowls to allow for easy topping.
Create a fun topping station if you’re dining with family or friends. Set out ingredients such as sour cream for creaminess, chopped green onions for a fresh crunch, and slices of jalapeños for those who crave some heat. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also add a vibrant look to each bowl, making mealtime moreinteractive.
Pair the chili mac with crusty bread or buttery rolls on the side. This will perfectly complement the hearty flavors of the dish and allow you to soak up every last bit of that delicious sauce. Drinks such as iced tea or sparkling water can balance the meal wonderfully.
Expert Tips: Slow Cooker Chili Mac
To take your Slow Cooker Chili Mac to the next level, here are some expert tips:
- Meat Alternatives: If you’re avoiding red meat, ground turkey or even a meat substitute can work just as well. You’ll still maintain that hearty flavor.
- Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your preference. If you enjoy heat, consider adding chopped serrano peppers or using a hotter chili powder.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh cilantro or parsley at the end can provide a lovely fresh note to the dish.
- Cheese Variety: While cheddar is a classic choice, experimenting with Monterey Jack or pepper jack can add exciting flavors and a bit of heat.
- Add Veggies: Want to incorporate more vegetables? Diced bell peppers, carrots, or corn can be tossed in along with the other ingredients without altering the cooking time significantly.
- Thicker Consistency: If you prefer your chili mac even thicker, reduce the broth by half a cup or add an extra 1/2 cup of elbow macaroni.
By following these tips, you can make this dish truly your own.
How to Store Slow Cooker Chili Mac
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare given how delicious it is!), storing your Slow Cooker Chili Mac is simple. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. An important tip is to store it in single servings if you prefer to reheat just a portion at a time.
Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. If you feel that it has thickened, you can add a splash of broth or water while reheating to get the desired consistency.
For longer storage, consider freezing your Slow Cooker Chili Mac. Once cooled, place it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It should keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before warming it up.
Variation of Slow Cooker Chili Mac
One of the best things about Slow Cooker Chili Mac is how easily it adapts. Consider trying out some variations to keep your meals exciting:
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the meat with a mix of black beans, kidney beans, and bell peppers. You can add cubed zucchini or mushrooms to enhance the texture.
- Cheesy Chili Mac: For an even cheesier version, add additional cheese types, like cream cheese during the last phase of cooking, for extra creaminess.
- Southwestern Style: Add corn, diced green chilies, and top with avocado for a fresh twist.
- Baked Version: If you want that baked feel, transfer the cooked dish to a casserole dish after adding the cheese. Sprinkle more cheese on top and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
- One-Pot Chili Mac: If you’re looking to save on cleanup, consider making this dish entirely on the stovetop. Brown the meat, then add everything else and cook until the pasta is tender, following the normal cooking times.
These variations allow you to enjoy the flavors of chili mac in many delightful ways, keeping it fresh and exciting for your family at every meal.
FAQ
What is Slow Cooker Chili Mac?
Slow Cooker Chili Mac is a comforting dish that combines ground meat, beans, tomatoes, macaroni, and cheese, all cooked together in a slow cooker for rich flavors and creamy texture.
How long does it take to make Slow Cooker Chili Mac?
The cooking time varies between 2 to 3 hours on high or 4 to 5 hours on low in your slow cooker, making it a perfect meal that can be set and forgotten!
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just swap out the meat for beans or lentils and add extra vegetables for a hearty vegetarian alternative.
What toppings go well with Slow Cooker Chili Mac?
You can top your chili mac with sour cream, green onions, jalapeños, or even avocado for a tasty finish!
How do I store leftovers?
Once cooled, store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months. Reheat when ready to serve!
Slow Cooker Chili Mac
Ingredients
Meat and Base Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey) For a leaner option
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef or chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- to taste Salt and pepper
Toppings
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- sour cream, green onions, jalapeños Optional toppings
Instructions
Preparation
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef (or turkey) until browned (about 6-8 minutes).
- Add diced onion and cook until softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Drain excess fat and transfer the mixture to the slow cooker.
Cooking
- Add kidney beans, undrained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth to the slow cooker.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and set the slow cooker on high for 2-3 hours or low for 4-5 hours.
- About 20-25 minutes prior to serving, stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni.
- Cover and continue cooking on high until the pasta is tender.
- Just before serving, add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted.
Serving
- Serve warm, allowing individuals to customize with sour cream, green onions, jalapeños, or avocado.
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