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Bowl of cozy slow cooker chili mac topped with cheese and herbs

Cozy Slow Cooker Chili Mac

A heartwarming chili mac recipe made effortlessly in a slow cooker, combining tender noodles, ground turkey, and a creamy cheese sauce for a comforting dish perfect for gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 7 hours
Total Time 7 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground turkey A lean alternative to beef.
  • 15 oz canned light red kidney beans, drained and rinsed Opt for black beans or pinto beans for variety.
  • 28 oz canned diced tomatoes Use fire-roasted for depth.
  • 15 oz tomato sauce
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ancho chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder Omit for a milder version.
  • 2 teaspoons cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried cilantro
  • 12 oz dried elbow noodles Add just before serving.
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 1.5 cups milk Use plant-based for a vegan version.
  • 1 cup shredded colby jack or cheddar jack cheese Can substitute with mozzarella or pepper jack.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground turkey until fully cooked, ensuring it’s nicely crumbled.
  2. Transfer the browned turkey into the slow cooker.
  3. Add the drained beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and all the seasonings, and stir until well combined.
Cooking
  1. Cover the slow cooker and let it simmer on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours.
  2. About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, cook the elbow noodles according to package directions, then drain thoroughly.
  3. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth, then slowly pour in the milk while whisking. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
  4. Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
  5. Mix the cooked noodles into the chili mixture and pour the cheesy sauce over it. Stir well to combine.
  6. Cover and let it sit on low or warm for about 20 minutes before serving.

Notes

Brown the turkey thoroughly for deeper flavor. Simmer longer for richer taste. Mix noodles gently to avoid mushy texture.