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Chili Cheese Mac Bliss is the ultimate comfort food that perfectly marries the creamy richness of macaroni and cheese with the hearty, zesty flavors of chili. This delightful dish not only satisfies the hunger pangs of a busy family but also serves as a crowd-pleaser during gatherings and potlucks, making it a staple in many households. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; it requires minimal preparation while delivering maximum flavor. With the perfect blend of spices, tender pasta, and gooey cheese, Chili Cheese Mac Bliss promises to be a hit at any dining table.

Slow Cooked Chili Cheese Macaroni

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with Chili Cheese Mac Bliss, a delicious blend of creamy macaroni and zesty chili. Perfect for busy families or gatherings, this recipe combines simple ingredients like elbow macaroni, ground meat, beans, and gooey cheddar cheese for a heartwarming dish. Discover step-by-step instructions, tips for flavor enhancement, and creative serving suggestions that will make this dish a beloved staple in your home. Enjoy the warm, satisfying experience of this classic comfort food.
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Ingredients
  

2 cups elbow macaroni

1 pound ground beef or turkey

1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies

1 can (10 oz) tomato sauce

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1 tablespoon chili powder

1 teaspoon cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

2 cups beef or vegetable broth

Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped green onions, sliced jalapeños, and additional cheese

Instructions
 

Sauté the Aromatics: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for an additional minute, until fragrant. Once done, transfer the onion and garlic mixture into a slow cooker.

    Brown the Meat: In the same skillet, add the ground beef or turkey. Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook the meat while breaking it apart with a spatula until it is browned and fully cooked, roughly 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess grease and add the meat to the slow cooker.

      Combine Ingredients: To the slow cooker with the meat and aromatics, add in the elbow macaroni, kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato sauce, and the broth. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined and evenly distributed.

        Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The goal is to achieve tender pasta and allow all the flavors to meld beautifully.

          Add Cheese: About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in 1.5 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese into the mixture. Allow the cheese to melt and become creamy. If you find the dish too thick, add a splash of broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.

            Serve: Once everything is cooked and creamy, ladle generous portions of Chili Cheese Mac into bowls. Top each serving with the remaining cheese and adorn with any optional toppings you desire, such as sour cream, chopped green onions, sliced jalapeños, or extra cheese for added indulgence.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 5 hours | 6 servings

                Presentation Tips: Serve in colorful bowls to provide a vibrant contrast against the rich hues of the dish. Garnish with a sprinkle of green onions on top for a fresh flourish, and a dollop of sour cream in the center for added richness.