Chili Mac in a Slow Cooker: A Simple, Satisfying Dinner

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Slow-Cooker Chili Mac is a comforting dish made easy! Best of both worlds – Mac & Cheese + Chili. Looking for delicious side dishes? Try this Red Cabbage & Kale Coleslaw and Tomato & English Cucumber Salad.

Slow-Cooker Chili Mac

Slow-Cooker Chili Mac is comforting dish made easy! Best of both worlds -Mac & Cheese + Chili.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6

Equipment

  • Slow cooker

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
  • 28 ounces diced tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 2 tablespoon fresh basil or 2 teaspoons dry
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or 1 teaspoons dry
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 small yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 8 ounces elbow mac, uncooked

Instructions
 

  • Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, drain and add to the slow cooker. Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the same pan. Cook onions over medium heat for 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
    Transfer mixture to slow cooker. Add all additional ingredients except elbow mac and cheese. Stir well and cook on HIGH for 4-5 hours or LOW for 6-7.
    When ready, turn the slow cooker to high, stir in dry pasta, and cook for 15 minutes. When pasta is tender, stir in cheese. Allow cheese to fully melt.
    Garnish with scallions, if desired.