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Welcome to the ultimate comfort food experience! If you're searching for a dish that combines hearty chili with creamy, cheesy goodness, then look no further than this Family-Friendly Slow Cooker Chili Mac and Cheese. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want to feed the whole family without spending hours in the kitchen.

Family-Friendly Slow Cooker Chili Mac and Cheese

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Family-Friendly Slow Cooker Chili Mac and Cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines rich chili flavors with creamy, gooey cheese and tender pasta. Simply toss your ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do all the work while you enjoy time with your loved ones. Customizable with your favorite proteins and veggies, this hearty meal is bound to please everyone at the table. Get ready for a delicious family favorite!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb ground beef or turkey

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 bell pepper, diced (any color)

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

1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)

1 can (6 oz) tomato paste

2 cups low-sodium beef or chicken broth

1 tbsp chili powder

1 tsp cumin

1 tsp smoked paprika

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/2 lb elbow macaroni (uncooked)

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions
 

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

    Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until vegetables are softened.

      Transfer the cooked meat and vegetable mixture to the slow cooker.

        Stir in the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and broth until well combined.

          Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper, mixing well to incorporate all the spices.

            Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours.

              About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Cover and continue to cook until the pasta is tender.

                Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and gooey. Adjust seasoning as needed.

                  Serve hot, garnished with additional cheese and chopped parsley on top.

                    Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 4 hours 30 min | Servings: 6