Introduction

Game day is all about bringing friends and family together, and what better way to fuel the excitement than with a hearty, delicious meal? Enter the Family-Friendly One-Pan Slow Cooker Chili Mac! This comforting dish combines the best of two worlds: the rich, savory flavors of classic chili and the creamy, cheesy goodness of macaroni and cheese. It’s the perfect crowd-pleaser that can be easily prepared in your slow cooker, allowing you to spend more time cheering for your team and less time in the kitchen.

Jump to Recipe

Whether you’re hosting a football party or simply looking for a cozy meal to enjoy while binge-watching your favorite series, this chili mac is both satisfying and easy to make. Packed with protein, veggies, and hearty pasta, it’s a complete meal in one pot, making cleanup a breeze! Plus, it can be customized for picky eaters or dietary restrictions, ensuring that everyone at your table will find something to love.

So grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a delicious dish that will have your guests raving long after the final whistle blows!

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (or turkey if preferred)
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
3 cups beef broth
2 cups elbow macaroni
2 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup frozen corn (optional)
Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and transfer the meat to the slow cooker.
1. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the slow cooker along with the cooked meat. Stir to combine.
1. Pour in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
1. Stir in the elbow macaroni, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. If you’re adding corn, toss it in now as well.
1. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally (if possible) for best results.
1. About 30 minutes before serving, add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir gently until the cheese has melted and everything is nice and gooey.
1. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or green onions if desired. Enjoy this perfect game day meal with your family and friends!
Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 5 hrs | Servings: 6

Key Ingredients

Ground Beef or Turkey: 1 pound, for a hearty protein base.
Medium Onion: 1, diced, to add sweetness and depth of flavor.
Garlic Cloves: 2, minced, for an aromatic kick.
Bell Peppers: 1-2 (red, green, or yellow), diced, for color and crunch.
Chili Powder: 2 tablespoons, to bring on the bold, zesty flavor.
Cumin: 1 teaspoon, which adds warmth and earthiness to the dish.
Canned Diced Tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 ounces), with juices, for a tangy base.
Tomato Sauce: 1 can (15 ounces) for richness and smoothness.
Kidney Beans: 1 can (15 ounces), drained and rinsed, for added texture and protein.
Macaroni Pasta: 2 cups, uncooked, to create that classic chili mac experience.
Beef or Chicken Broth: 2 cups, to cook the pasta and enhance flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: 1-2 cups, shredded, for melty topping goodness.
Salt and Pepper: To taste, for basic seasoning.
Optional Toppings: Sour cream, green onions, jalapeños, or avocado for serving.

This comforting and delicious chili mac is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for sharing with family and friends during game day!

Baking Process

Preparing your Family-Friendly One-Pan Slow Cooker Chili Mac for Game Day is a simple yet rewarding endeavor. This dish is not only easy to make but also combines the comforting flavors of chili and mac and cheese in a way that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. Here’s how to bring everything together:

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Ground beef or turkey
Onion and garlic
Bell peppers (optional)
Canned diced tomatoes
Tomato sauce
Kid-friendly chili beans
Elbow macaroni
Beef broth or water
Cheddar cheese (shredded)
Spices: chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper
Optional toppings: sour cream, green onions, diced avocado

Instructions:

Sauté the Base:
In the slow cooker, set to the sauté function (if available), or use a skillet on the stovetop. Brown the ground meat and add chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook until the meat is no longer pink and the onions are translucent.
Add Veggies:
If using, add diced bell peppers to the mixture. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until they’re slightly softened.
Combine Ingredients:
Stir in the canned diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and drained chili beans. Mix well to combine.
Incorporate Pasta:
Add the uncooked elbow macaroni directly to the slow cooker, followed by enough beef broth to cover the ingredients—about 2-3 cups, depending on your desired consistency. Stir in your spices: chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Slow Cook:
Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. If you’re using a slow cooker with a sauté function, you can skip to the next step after browning the meat.
Cheesy Goodness:
Near the end of the cooking time, gently stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt into the chili mac. For an extra cheesy topping, reserve some cheese to sprinkle on top before serving.
Final Touches:
Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. If your chili mac seems too thick, you can add a splash more broth or water until you reach the desired consistency.
Serve:
Portion out the chili mac into bowls and serve hot. Add your favorite toppings, such as a dollop of sour cream, sliced green onions, or diced avocado for an additional layer of flavor.

Tips for Success:

Make-Ahead: This dish can be made a day in advance. Just reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash more broth to keep it from drying out.
Dietary Adjustments: Substitute with ground turkey or a plant-based protein for a lighter version. For gluten-free options, replace elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta.
Kick Up the Spice: If your family enjoys a little heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix before cooking.

Enjoy your deliciously comforting Family-Friendly One-Pan Slow Cooker Chili Mac while cheering for your favorite team! 🏈🍲

Serving Suggestions

To make the most of your Family-Friendly One-Pan Slow Cooker Chili Mac for Game Day, consider these serving suggestions that will elevate your dish and cater to your guests’ preferences:

Toppings Bar: Set up a toppings station where guests can customize their chili mac. Offer a variety of options such as:
Shredded cheddar cheese
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Sliced jalapeños for some heat
Chopped green onions
Crushed tortilla chips for added crunch
Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Side Dishes: Complement the chili mac with easy-to-manage side dishes that fit the festive vibe:
Cornbread or mini cornbread muffins
A simple side salad with a tangy dressing
Vegetable platter with ranch or hummus dip
Bread Choices: Serve with different types of bread for dipping and pairing:
Savory garlic breadsticks
Soft dinner rolls or slider buns
Tortilla chips for scooping up the chili mac
Beverages: Pair your dish with refreshing drinks to quench thirst during the game:
A crisp lager or ale for adult guests
Sparkling water with citrus slices for a non-alcoholic option
Homemade lemonade or iced tea for a refreshing touch
Dessert Options: Round out the meal with some game day-friendly desserts:
Individual-sized brownies or blondies for a sweet treat
Mini cupcakes decorated in team colors
A fruit platter for a healthier option

With these serving suggestions, your Family-Friendly One-Pan Slow Cooker Chili Mac will not only be a hit on its own but will also harmonize beautifully with the entire game day spread! Enjoy the flavors and the fun of the day!

Conclusion

Family-Friendly One-Pan Slow Cooker Chili Mac is the ultimate comfort food that brings everyone together for game day. With its rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and convenient one-pot cooking method, this dish is perfect for busy schedules and big gatherings alike. The combination of tender pasta, savory chili, and melty cheese creates a satisfying meal that will please both kids and adults. Plus, with the simplicity of a slow cooker, you can enjoy more time with your friends and family while the chili mac cooks to perfection.

As you gather around to cheer for your favorite team, this easy-to-make chili mac is sure to steal the spotlight. Don’t forget to customize it with your favorite toppings—sour cream, green onions, or a sprinkle of jalapeños can take it to the next level! So grab your cups of chili mac, settle in, and enjoy a scrumptious dish that reflects the warmth and joy of togetherness. Cheers to delicious food and unforgettable moments!