introduction
Creamy Crockpot Ground Beef Chili Mac combines the comfort of chili and macaroni and cheese into one mouthwatering dish. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends when you want something warm and filling without spending too much time in the kitchen.
why make this recipe
This recipe is great because it’s easy to prepare and requires minimal hands-on time. Cooking in a crockpot means you can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal that is hearty enough to satisfy the whole family.
how to make Creamy Crockpot Ground Beef Chili Mac
Ingredients:
- 1 pound lean ground beef (85/15)
- 2 cups elbow macaroni pasta (about 200 g)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, preferably fire-roasted
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 to 1.5 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh cilantro or green onions, chopped (optional)
Directions:
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat (optional but recommended).
- Transfer the browned beef to the crockpot. Add macaroni pasta, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, or until the pasta is tender but not mushy.
- About 15 minutes before serving, soften the cream cheese and drop spoonfuls over the chili mac. Gently swirl with a spoon or spatula without fully mixing to create pockets of creamy goodness.
- If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, cover, and let melt for 10 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm, garnished with chopped cilantro or green onions if desired.
how to serve Creamy Crockpot Ground Beef Chili Mac
You can serve Creamy Crockpot Ground Beef Chili Mac in bowls. It pairs well with a side of cornbread or crusty bread for dipping. For added flavor, you can top it with additional cheese, chopped cilantro, or green onions.
how to store Creamy Crockpot Ground Beef Chili Mac
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the mixture is too thick, add a little beef broth or water while reheating.
tips to make Creamy Crockpot Ground Beef Chili Mac
- Use lean ground beef to keep the dish lighter, but you can substitute with ground turkey for a different flavor.
- Experiment with the spices. If you like it spicy, add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- For a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for plant-based ground meat or use beans instead.
variations
You can easily switch up ingredients to fit your taste. Try adding different types of cheese for more flavor, or mix in vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or black beans.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you like, but make sure it cooks in a similar amount of time as elbow macaroni.
How spicy is this chili mac?
This recipe has a mild spice level due to chili powder. If you prefer more heat, feel free to increase the amount of chili powder or add hot sauce.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them in the fridge. Just add everything to the crockpot and cook when you’re ready.
