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In a world that seems to move faster every day, the significance of comfort food has never been more pronounced. Comfort food transcends mere sustenance; it embodies warmth, nostalgia, and a sense of belonging. It’s the dish you turn to after a long day, the meal that wraps around you like a cozy blanket, and the recipe that brings families together around the dinner table. Among these beloved dishes, the Cheesy Comfort in a Bowl recipe stands out as a hearty, satisfying option that combines the rich flavors of chili with the creamy goodness of mac and cheese. This recipe is not just about indulgence; it’s about creating a meal that evokes happiness and satisfaction with every spoonful.

Slow Cooked Cheesy Chili Mac

Looking for a comforting dish that warms the heart? Try this Cheesy Comfort in a Bowl recipe! It's a delightful mix of chili and creamy mac and cheese, bringing together flavors of ground beef or turkey, fresh vegetables, beans, and a melty blend of cheeses. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this versatile recipe allows you to tailor ingredients to your taste. Cozy up with a bowl of this satisfying meal that promises to delight the whole family.
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Ingredients
  

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

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 bell pepper, diced (any color you prefer)

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

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

1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes (with their juice)

2 cups beef or vegetable broth

2 tablespoons tomato paste

2 tablespoons chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 lb elbow macaroni

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

¼ cup sliced green onions (optional, for garnish)

Sour cream (optional, for serving)

Instructions
 

Brown the Meat: In a large skillet set over medium heat, add the ground beef (or turkey). Cook, using a spatula to break up the meat into smaller pieces, until it is well-browned. Drain any excess fat from the skillet and set aside.

    Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper to the skillet with the browned meat. Sauté the mixture for approximately 5 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened and become fragrant.

      Combine Ingredients: In a large slow cooker, combine the browned meat and sautéed vegetables. Stir in the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes (along with their juice), beef or vegetable broth, tomato paste, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until well mixed.

        Cook: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 4 hours, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully.

          Add Macaroni: After 4 hours of cooking, add the elbow macaroni to the slow cooker. Stir gently to incorporate, cover again, and continue cooking on low for an additional 30 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. If the mixture appears too thick, feel free to add a splash more broth to achieve your desired consistency.

            Cheesy Finish: Once the macaroni is cooked through, add the shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese to the pot. Stir well until all the cheese is melted and the dish turns creamy and inviting.

              Serve: Ladle the cheesy chili mac into individual bowls. Garnish with chopped cilantro and sliced green onions if you wish. For an extra layer of richness, top each serving with a dollop of sour cream.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                  - 15 mins | 4 hrs 30 mins | 6 servings

                    Presentation Tips:

                      For a delightful touch, serve the chili mac in colorful bowls and consider topping with an extra sprinkle of cheese or a few fresh cilantro leaves to enhance the visual appeal. Enjoy your comforting bowl of cheesy goodness!