How long does it take to make Slow Cooker Chili Mac?

Based on our recipe instructions, it takes about 6-8 hours on a low setting or 3-4 hours on a high setting in the slow cooker. You’ll need to add the dry pasta 20 minutes before serving time if cooking on low, or just before serving if the pasta is pre-cooked.

What ingredients do I need for Slow Cooker Chili Mac?

You'll need the following ingredients: extra lean ground beef or lean ground chicken, a yellow onion, garlic cloves, bay leaf, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, sea salt, pepper, optional cayenne pepper, diced green chiles, diced tomatoes, low-sodium beef broth, beef bouillon, beans, tomato paste, small elbow macaroni, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream.

Can I use pre-cooked pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked pasta. Simply add it right before serving to ensure it doesn't become overly soft. If you're using dry pasta, add it to the slow cooker about 20 minutes before the dish is done cooking on a low setting.

What can I substitute for beef bouillon?

If you don't have beef bouillon, you can use a vegetable bouillon for a similar depth of flavor. Just make sure it's well incorporated with the beef broth and other ingredients to maintain the savory taste profile of the dish.

How do I adjust the spice level in this recipe?

To adjust the spice level, you can modify the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether for a milder dish. If you prefer more heat, increase the cayenne pepper slightly. Remember, it's always wise to taste and adjust gradually.

What toppings go well with Slow Cooker Chili Mac?

Some great toppings include shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced onions, corn chips, avocado slices, and fresh cilantro. These add both texture and flavor, enhancing the overall experience of the chili mac.

Slow Cooker Chili Mac: Ultimate Comfort Food for Cozy Nights

Name: Slow Cooker Chili Mac
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-490604H32M50S
Total time: PT-490604H32M50S
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: – 1 lb (454 g) Extra Lean Ground Beef or Lean Ground Chicken (93%-97% lean); – 1 Yellow Onion, diced; – 4 lg Garlic Cloves, pressed or finely minced; – 1 Bay Leaf; – 2 Tablespoons (30 ml) Chili Powder (mild); – 1 Tablespoon (15 ml) Cumin; – 2 teaspoons (10 ml) Smoked Paprika; – 1 teaspoon (5 ml) Oregano; – ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) Sea Salt (or ¼ tsp table salt); – ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) Pepper; – ¼ teaspoon (1.25 ml) Cayenne Pepper (optional); – 1 can Diced Green Chiles, mild; – 1 (14 oz (397 g)) can Diced Tomatoes (with juice); – 3 cups (720 ml) Beef Broth** (low sodium); – 2 teaspoons (10 ml) Beef Bouillon (such as Better Than Bouillon®); – 2 (14 oz (397 g)) cans Beans (red kidney, black, or pinto) drained & rinsed; – 1 (6 oz (170 g)) can Tomato Paste; – 2 cups (480 ml) Small Elbow Macaroni (or 8 oz other pasta) dry; – Shredded Cheddar Cheese; – Sour Cream

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Finding the perfect slow cooker chili mac recipe always reminds me of weekend family gatherings at my grandmother’s house. We would gather around the kitchen, the aroma of spices filling the air, as she prepared her signature dishes. It wasn’t just about the food; it was about the warmth and love that each meal brought to our table. The simplicity and comfort of slow-cooked meals have always been a cherished tradition in my family.

Cooking slow cooker chili mac transports me back to those cherished moments. The blend of flavors simmering together creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also rich in tradition. I remember watching, fascinated, as my grandmother added each ingredient with care, creating layers of taste that made every bite memorable. This recipe captures that essence, bringing together the heartiness of chili with the comfort of mac and cheese, all in one pot.

In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to craft a meal that brings people together can be challenging. That’s why slow cooker chili mac has become a staple in my kitchen. It’s a dish that requires minimal effort yet delivers maximum flavor. The slow cooker does all the hard work, allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully over time. The result is a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends.

My hope is that this recipe becomes a part of your family’s traditions, just as it has for mine. Cooking should be about creating memories and connecting with loved ones. As you dive into this slow cooker chili mac recipe, I invite you to embrace the joy and simplicity of cooking. Let it be a reminder of the warmth and love that food can bring to our lives.

Slow Cooker Chili Mac

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Author: Chloe
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
Total Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
Yield: 6 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: Mexican

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Description

Discover how to make delicious Slow Cooker Chili Mac with this easy recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights, this hearty dish is sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients

– 1 lb (454 g) Extra Lean Ground Beef or Lean Ground Chicken (93%-97% lean)
– 1 Yellow Onion, diced
– 4 lg Garlic Cloves, pressed or finely minced
– 1 Bay Leaf
– 2 Tablespoons (30 ml) Chili Powder (mild)
– 1 Tablespoon (15 ml) Cumin
– 2 teaspoons (10 ml) Smoked Paprika
– 1 teaspoon (5 ml) Oregano
– ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) Sea Salt (or ¼ tsp table salt)
– ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) Pepper
– ¼ teaspoon (1.25 ml) Cayenne Pepper (optional)
– 1 can Diced Green Chiles, mild
– 1 (14 oz (397 g)) can Diced Tomatoes (with juice)
– 3 cups (720 ml) Beef Broth** (low sodium)
– 2 teaspoons (10 ml) Beef Bouillon (such as Better Than Bouillon®)
– 2 (14 oz (397 g)) cans Beans (red kidney, black, or pinto) drained & rinsed
– 1 (6 oz (170 g)) can Tomato Paste
– 2 cups (480 ml) Small Elbow Macaroni (or 8 oz other pasta) dry
– Shredded Cheddar Cheese
– Sour Cream

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Instructions

Incorporate the meat, diced onion, minced garlic, bay leaf, and all the spices including chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and optional cayenne pepper. Mix thoroughly. If using ground beef that is not lean, brown it first and remove excess fat before combining.
Introduce the diced green chiles, canned diced tomatoes with their juice, beef broth, beef bouillon, drained beans, and tomato paste into the mixture. Combine all ingredients well.
Set the slow cooker to a low setting for 6-8 hours or a high setting for 3-4 hours to cook.
For dry pasta, add it 20 minutes before the dish is ready to serve and continue cooking on low. If using pre-cooked pasta, incorporate it just before serving.
Sample the dish and adjust the salt as necessary. Serve with toppings of your preference such as sour cream, shredded cheese, avocado, diced onion, corn chips, cilantro, and more.

Notes

Mastering Slow Cooker Chili Mac

Fundamentals

At the core of a great slow cooker chili mac are fresh ingredients and balanced flavors. This dish combines extra lean ground beef or lean ground chicken with a medley of spices, including chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. These spices create a robust base, while the addition of diced tomatoes and green chiles introduces a subtle tang and heat.

Beans add heartiness and texture, making this chili mac both filling and satisfying. Opt for canned beans like red kidney, black, or pinto for convenience. Rinsing them removes excess sodium and prepares them for the slow-cooking process. The inclusion of elbow macaroni ties everything together, absorbing the rich flavors throughout the cooking process.

Preparation/setup

Begin by preparing your ingredients. Dice the yellow onion and mince the garlic cloves, setting them aside. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground meat with the spices, ensuring even distribution. If using non-lean meat, brown it first and drain excess fat for a healthier dish.

Transfer the seasoned meat and vegetables into your slow cooker. Add the diced green chiles, canned diced tomatoes with juice, and beef broth. Enhance the flavor with beef bouillon, mixing until well combined. Introduce the drained beans and tomato paste, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Set your slow cooker to the desired setting: low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This allows the flavors to meld and develop, creating a rich and hearty chili mac. Add the pasta 20 minutes before serving if dry, or just before serving if pre-cooked. This ensures the pasta maintains its texture and doesn’t become mushy.

Crafting the Perfect Chili Mac

Technique

The key to a successful slow cooker chili mac lies in layering flavors. Start with the aromatics: garlic and onion create a savory base that enhances the meat and spices. Sautéing these ingredients before adding them to the slow cooker can deepen their flavor, but it’s optional for those short on time.

Choosing the right meat is also crucial. Whether you opt for extra lean ground beef or lean ground chicken, ensure it’s well seasoned. The spices should coat the meat thoroughly, infusing it with flavor as it cooks. Adjust the cayenne pepper based on your preferred spice level, keeping in mind that a little goes a long way.

Tips/tricks

To intensify the flavors, consider allowing the meat and spices to marinate for a few hours before cooking. This step is optional but can make a noticeable difference. Additionally, using low-sodium beef broth and adjusting the salt to taste ensures the dish isn’t overly salty.

If you love creative comfort food, you’ll definitely want to try these BBQ Bacon Mac N Cheese Stuffed Burger — a fun twist on classic flavors. For those who prefer a bit of crunch, top your chili mac with corn chips or crushed tortilla chips before serving.

For a touch of freshness, garnish with cilantro or diced avocado. These toppings add a burst of flavor and color, elevating the presentation. Experiment with your favorite toppings to make the dish your own.

Perfecting the Chili Mac

Perfecting results

Consistency is key when perfecting your slow cooker chili mac. The right balance of liquid is crucial to achieving a creamy yet thick texture. If the chili mac appears too thin towards the end of cooking, remove the lid and let it simmer until it thickens to your liking.

Adjusting the seasoning is another important step. Taste the dish before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and spices as needed. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor. For a smokier taste, increase the smoked paprika slightly, but be cautious not to overpower the dish.

Troubleshooting/variations

If your chili mac lacks depth, consider adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce or a spoonful of brown sugar for sweetness. These additions can balance the acidity of the tomatoes and enhance the overall flavor profile.

For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and increase the amount of beans or add hearty vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. This variation provides a similar texture and flavor while catering to different dietary preferences.

For more recipe inspiration, check out these chili mac variations or explore other comforting dishes like deep-fried mac and cheese roll-ups.

Serving and Storing Chili Mac

Serving/presentation

To serve, ladle the chili mac into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream. These toppings add creaminess and a tangy contrast to the rich, savory base. For added texture, sprinkle with diced onions or jalapeños.

For a unique twist, serve alongside loaded bacon cheeseburger mac for a delightful meal combo. The combination of flavors will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

Pairings/storage

Pair your slow cooker chili mac with a side of crusty bread or cornbread for a complete meal. These sides soak up the delicious sauce and complement the hearty flavors. Avoid pairing with wine; instead, serve with a refreshing iced tea or lemonade.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to three months, ensuring the dish maintains its quality and flavor.

For more slow cooker inspiration, explore recipes like slow cooker brown sugar pineapple turkey ham or enjoy a sweet treat with slow cooker Cracker Barrel fried apples.

Conclusion

Slow cooker chili mac is a delightful combination of hearty and comforting flavors, perfect for any occasion. Its simplicity and versatility make it a go-to recipe for busy families and those seeking a comforting meal. The ability to customize with different toppings and variations ensures it suits everyone’s taste.

This dish brings together the best of chili and mac and cheese, delivering a satisfying meal that warms the soul. Its ease of preparation and the use of common pantry ingredients make it a favorite among home cooks. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, slow cooker chili mac is sure to please.