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When preparing your Cheesy Crockpot Chili Mac with Corn, you have two primary cooking methods to choose from: low and slow or quick and high. Each method has its own advantages and can significantly impact the final flavor and texture of your dish.

Cheesy Crockpot Chili Mac with Corn

Discover the heartwarming flavors of Cheesy Crockpot Chili Mac with Corn, a perfect one-pot meal that brings comfort to any table. This dish combines ground beef, beans, corn, and elbow macaroni in a rich, creamy cheese sauce, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or gatherings. With simple ingredients and easy step-by-step instructions, you can customize it to suit your family's tastes while enjoying a delicious culinary experience that warms the soul.
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Ingredients
  

1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter alternative)

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth if preferred)

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 (undrained)

1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce

1 cup corn kernels (frozen or canned, drained)

2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)

1 tablespoon chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions
 

Brown the Meat: In a large skillet set over medium heat, add the ground beef (or turkey) along with the diced onion. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is browned and the onion is tender. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. If there is excess fat, drain it away.

    Combine Ingredients in Crockpot: Carefully transfer the browned meat mixture into the crockpot. Add the beef broth, kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes (including their juices), tomato sauce, corn, and uncooked elbow macaroni. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and season generously with salt and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

      Cook: Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The dish is ready when the macaroni is tender and the flavors have melded beautifully.

        Add the Cheese: About 30 minutes before the cooking time is complete, stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Cover the crockpot and continue to cook until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the chili mac.

          Taste and Serve: Once cooking is complete, taste the chili mac and adjust the seasonings if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro, if desired.

            Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 7 hrs (on low) or 4 hrs (on high) | 6 servings

              - Presentation Tips: For a vibrant presentation, serve the chili mac in bowls, topping each serving with a sprinkle of extra cheese and cilantro. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a few slices of jalapeños for some extra flair!