Slow Cooker Chili Mac with Cheddar and Kidney Beans Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting, hearty dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this Slow Cooker Chili Mac with Cheddar and Kidney Beans Recipe. It combines the best of two worlds—the rich, spiced goodness of chili with the fun, cheesy heartiness of macaroni—delivered effortlessly from your slow cooker. This dish is the perfect go-to for busy days when you want something satisfying without the hassle, and it’s guaranteed to bring smiles around the table with its vibrant flavors, creamy textures, and that irresistible layer of melted cheddar cheese.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, straightforward ingredients is key to making this Slow Cooker Chili Mac with Cheddar and Kidney Beans Recipe a breeze. Each item plays an essential role, from the lean ground beef that offers protein and flavor, to the kidney beans adding a creamy bite and a pop of color. The sweet baby peppers give the dish a subtle sweetness and crunch, while the sharp cheddar cheese melts into a luscious, cheesy finish.

• 1 lb. ground beef (lean): Provides a hearty and flavorful base without excess grease.
• 1/2 cup chopped sweet baby peppers: Adds a gentle sweetness and vibrant color to balance the spices.
• 1 29 oz can tomato sauce: Creates a rich and tangy chili base that coats every bite.
• 1 10 oz can Rotel tomatoes: Infuses the dish with a mild kick and fresh tomato flavor.
• 2 15 oz. cans red kidney beans (drained): Brings creaminess and makes the meal extra filling.
• 1 1 oz. envelope chili seasoning: The spice blend that awakens the palate with classic chili notes.
• 1 1 oz. envelope ranch seasoning: Adds a unique, zesty twist that amplifies the overall taste.
• 2 cups water: Helps everything meld together perfectly during the slow cooking process.
• 3 cups elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape that soaks up all the flavors beautifully.
• 16 oz. sharp cheddar cheese (shredded): For that irresistible gooey, cheesy goodness you won’t want to miss.
• Parsley (for topping): A fresh, colorful garnish that makes the dish look as good as it tastes.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chili Mac with Cheddar and Kidney Beans Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef and Peppers

Start by heating a medium skillet over medium-high heat and browning your lean ground beef alongside the chopped sweet baby peppers. This step builds a rich flavor foundation and softens the peppers to bring a gentle sweetness right from the start.

Step 2: Drain Excess Grease

Once browned and perfectly cooked, drain off any excess grease from the beef and peppers. This keeps your chili mac hearty without becoming greasy, ensuring a clean and balanced taste.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Transfer the beef and peppers to your slow cooker, then pour in the tomato sauce, Rotel tomatoes, drained kidney beans, chili seasoning, ranch seasoning, and water. Stir everything gently to combine, so every component melds together in the slow cooker’s cozy warmth.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Set your slow cooker on low for 6 hours or high for 4 hours. This slow simmer lets all the flavors develop deeply and the beans soften to just the right tenderness, turning your kitchen into a fragrant haven.

Step 5: Add Elbow Macaroni

About 45 minutes before serving, stir in the elbow macaroni. This timing is crucial to ensure the pasta cooks perfectly without becoming mushy, soaking in all those robust chili flavors.

Step 6: Stir in Half of the Cheddar Cheese

Once the macaroni is tender, mix in half of your shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Watch as it melts smoothly into the dish, adding a creamy, cheesy layer that brings everything together.

Step 7: Top with Remaining Cheese and Melt

Sprinkle the rest of the cheddar evenly over the top. Then cover the slow cooker for a few minutes until the cheese beautifully melts into a gooey finish that’s almost too good to resist.

Step 8: Garnish with Fresh Parsley

For a pop of bright green and a touch of freshness, sprinkle chopped parsley over your Slow Cooker Chili Mac with Cheddar and Kidney Beans Recipe just before serving.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!

Grab your favorite spoon and dive in. This is comfort food at its most delicious, with layers of flavor that keep you coming back for just one more bite.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chili Mac with Cheddar and Kidney Beans Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a burst of color to your dish but also cuts through the richness, giving you a light, herbal note in every forkful. For extra flair, try dolloping with sour cream or a few sliced green onions.

Side Dishes

This hearty dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad to balance its richness or a warm corn bread muffin that soaks up every last drop of sauce. Roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli also make excellent, simple sides.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve it in individual mini cast iron skillets for a rustic presentation or layer it in a casserole dish topped with extra cheese and breadcrumbs, then bake briefly for a crunchy twist. You can also stuff it into baked bell peppers for a fun and colorful variation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Slow Cooker Chili Mac with Cheddar and Kidney Beans Recipe stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep it chilled until you’re ready to reheat for a quick and tasty meal.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully, making it a perfect freezer-friendly meal. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your leftovers on the stove over low-medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even warmth. You might want to add a splash of water or broth to refresh the sauce and keep the macaroni from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative that works well in this recipe. Just brown it the same way and proceed with the rest of the steps for equally delicious results.

What if I don’t have ranch seasoning?

If ranch seasoning is missing from your pantry, you can substitute with a mix of dried parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and dill for a similar zing. It won’t be exactly the same, but it adds a lovely flavor boost.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply skip the ground beef and add extra beans or vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of water if you want more depth, and keep the rest of the spices for that signature chili mac taste.

What type of cheddar cheese is best?

Sharp cheddar cheese is perfect here because it melts nicely and delivers bold flavor. You can mix in milder cheeses like Monterey Jack if you want a creamier, less tangy finish.

How spicy is the dish?

This recipe has a mild to medium heat level thanks to the chili seasoning and Rotel tomatoes. If you prefer it spicier, add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to turn up the heat.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend the Slow Cooker Chili Mac with Cheddar and Kidney Beans Recipe enough for those times you want a fuss-free yet deeply satisfying meal. It’s the kind of dish that feels like an instant classic—easy to make, full of layers of flavor, and loved by everyone at the table. Give it a try and discover a new favorite you’ll want to make again and again!

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