Serves: 6
- Brown the Meat:
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey until fully cooked. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper about halfway through and sauté until they are soft.
- Drain any excess fat and transfer the meat and vegetable mixture to the crockpot.
- Add the Chili Ingredients:
- To the crockpot with the browned meat, add the kidney beans, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Stir everything together to ensure it is well mixed.
- Cook the Chili:
- Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 7 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
- Cook the Macaroni:
- About 30 minutes before the end of the cooking time, boil the macaroni in a pot according to package instructions until just al dente.
- Drain the macaroni and stir it into the chili in the crockpot.
- Add Cheese and Milk:
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese and milk to the crockpot. Stir well until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Final Cook:
- Cover the crockpot again and let it cook on high for another 15 to 30 minutes, or until everything is heated through and creamy.
- Serve:
- Serve the Cheddar Chili Mac hot, garnished with additional cheese, chopped onions, or sour cream if desired.
Tips and Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the ground meat and add an extra can of beans or some cooked quinoa for protein.
- Spicier Version: Add some chopped jalapeños or increase the chili powder.
- Extra Creaminess: For a richer taste, you can mix in a dollop of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream along with the cheddar cheese.
Nutritional Information
Chili mac is not only delicious but also offers a good balance of protein, carbs, and fiber, making it a fulfilling meal that can easily be adjusted to fit dietary needs or preferences.
This Crockpot Cheddar Chili Mac recipe is the epitome of comfort cooking with minimal effort. It’s ideal for a chilly day or any time you crave a warm, comforting meal that’s both filling and flavorful. Enjoy the ease and deliciousness of this slow-cooker classic!