When it comes to cozy, comforting meals that check all the boxes—easy, hearty, cheesy, and absolutely irresistible—my go-to is always Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac. This recipe combines the rich, savory flavors of classic chili with tender macaroni and a generous blanket of melty cheddar, all bubbling together in your slow cooker. The result is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with smiles, perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or anytime you just want something deliciously familiar with a little zippy twist.

Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part about making Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac is that the ingredient list is straightforward, but each element adds something essential—whether that’s bold flavor, lush texture, or vibrant color. Don’t skip a thing; together, these ingredients create the magic!

Lean ground beef (450 g): Browned and drained, this adds protein and hearty, savory richness to every bite.
Uncooked macaroni (240 g): Cook just to al dente; it soaks up all those chili flavors without getting mushy.
Canned mild chili beans (425 g, undrained): Their zesty sauce infuses the whole dish with a gentle kick and creamy texture.
Canned diced tomatoes with green chiles (298 g, drained): These bring a pop of freshness and subtle heat that makes the mac sing.
Chili powder (1.5 teaspoons): For that unmistakable chili warmth and depth—don’t be afraid to add a pinch more if you love spice!
Garlic salt (1 teaspoon): This simple seasoning ensures every bite is packed with savory flavor and complements the cheese perfectly.
Shredded cheddar cheese (120 g): For that ooey-gooey melt and sharp cheddar tang; freshly shredded melts best!

How to Make Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by browning your lean ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Make sure you cook it until it’s no longer pink, then drain off any excess fat. This little bit of extra effort delivers loads of flavor and a satisfying, meaty texture that forms the base of your chili mac.

Step 2: Cook the Macaroni

While the beef browns, get your macaroni going in a pot of salted, boiling water. Aim for al dente—firm yet tender—since the noodles will spend more time softening up with the other ingredients in your Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac. Drain well and set aside.

Step 3: Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker

Now, it’s time for the big mix! Add the browned beef, cooked macaroni, undrained chili beans, diced tomatoes with green chiles (drain them first), chili powder, and garlic salt into your 4-liter slow cooker. Stir everything together so the spices and sauces coat every bit of noodle and meat. This step sets the stage for all those flavors to meld blissfully.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle your shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the chili mac mixture. (If you’re a true cheese lover, feel free to sneak in an extra handful!) This layer will melt into a glorious, golden blanket, crowning your Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac with irresistible gooeyness.

Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover your slow cooker and set it to low for 2 hours, or high for about 1 to 1.5 hours. If your slow cooker tends to have hot spots, rotate the insert halfway through cooking. When the time’s up, you’ll have a bubbling, creamy, and deeply satisfying pot of comfort just waiting to be devoured.

How to Serve Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac

Garnishes

A few well-chosen garnishes can take Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac over the top! Try a scattering of fresh chopped scallions for brightness, a dollop of sour cream for creaminess, or even some pickled jalapeños if you love a bit of kick. A final sprinkle of extra cheddar never hurt either.

Side Dishes

This dish is totally satisfying on its own, but it pairs beautifully with cornbread, a fresh green salad, or roasted veggies. The mildly spicy, cheesy chili flavors welcome anything cool and crisp alongside.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, try serving your Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac in individual cups or ramekins, topped with crushed tortilla chips for crunch. Or, scoop it into bell peppers and bake for a fun, edible bowl. It’s also amazing ladled over baked potatoes or spooned with tortilla chips as a hearty dip.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers keep incredibly well! Cool the Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac completely, then transfer it to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors get even more delicious as they meld together.

Freezing

For longer storage, portion cooled chili mac into freezer-safe bags or containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Tip: Undercook your macaroni slightly more if you plan to freeze, which helps prevent mushiness when reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave, stirring halfway through for even heat. For larger amounts, use a saucepan on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water if it looks too thick. Top with fresh cheese if desired for that straight-from-the-Crockpot vibe!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of macaroni?

Absolutely! Shells, penne, or rotini would all work well in Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac. Just remember to cook your chosen pasta shape al dente so it holds up beautifully during slow cooking.

What’s the best way to make this dish vegetarian?

You can swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or even use extra beans (like black beans or kidney beans) to boost the protein. Be sure to use veggie-based chili beans and check for vegetarian-friendly cheese if needed.

Can I make Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac spicier?

Go for it! Increase the chili powder, add a few dashes of hot sauce, or use a hot variety of diced tomatoes with chiles. A sprinkle of cayenne or chopped fresh jalapeño stirred in at the end also brings fiery fun.

Is it okay to assemble everything the night before?

Yes! You can brown the beef, prep the pasta, and combine all the ingredients except the cheese in your Crock Pot insert and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, just pop it straight in the slow cooker, add cheese, and cook as directed.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Definitely! As long as your slow cooker is large enough, Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac is easy to double. Just add a bit more cooking time (another 30 minutes or so) and give everything a good stir before serving so it’s evenly heated.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dish that’s guaranteed to please a crowd and warm you from the inside out, make Crock Pot Cheddar Chili Mac your next dinner star. It’s easy, flexible, and absolutely packed with flavor and gooey cheddar goodness. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to keep it in steady rotation!