This Slow Cooker 6-Ingredient Beef and Macaroni is a clever one-pot version of classic American goulash (often known as chili mac). By layering raw ground beef with dry elbow macaroni and a savory mix of marinara and beef broth, everything cooks together in a single slow process. The beef simmers directly in the sauce, releasing rich juices that flavor the pasta as it softens, while cheddar cheese melts in at the end to create a creamy, unified dish. Slow Cooker 6-Ingredient Beef and Macaroni Ingredients 1 1\/2 lbs ground beef (raw, 80\u201390% lean) 2 cups dry elbow macaroni 1 can\u2026<\/p>\n
This Slow Cooker 6-Ingredient Beef and Macaroni is a clever one-pot version of classic American goulash (often known as chili mac). By layering raw ground beef with dry elbow macaroni and a savory mix of marinara and beef broth, everything cooks together in a single slow process. The beef simmers directly in the sauce, releasing rich juices that flavor the pasta as it softens, while cheddar cheese melts in at the end to create a creamy, unified dish.<\/p>\n
Slow Cooker 6-Ingredient Beef and Macaroni<\/p>\n
Ingredients<\/p>\n
1 1\/2 lbs ground beef (raw, 80\u201390% lean)
\n2 cups dry elbow macaroni
\n1 can (24\u201326 oz) pasta sauce (marinara)
\n2 cups beef broth
\n1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
\n1 tsp kosher salt
\nStep-by-Step Directions<\/p>\n
Step 1: Create the base
\nLightly grease a 5\u20136 quart slow cooker. Break up the raw ground beef and spread it evenly across the bottom. Add the dry macaroni on top in an even layer\u2014do not stir.<\/p>\n
Tip: Keeping the beef on the bottom helps it cook properly while its juices rise to flavor the pasta.<\/p>\n
Step 2: Add the liquids
\nCombine the marinara sauce, beef broth, and salt. Pour evenly over the pasta, making sure it is mostly covered or gently pressed into the liquid.<\/p>\n
Step 3: Cook
\nCover and cook on HIGH for 2\u20132\u00bd hours or LOW for 4\u20134\u00bd hours.<\/p>\n
Important: Stir once halfway through cooking to break up the beef and prevent sticking.<\/p>\n
Step 4: Add cheese
\nWhen the pasta is tender and the beef is fully cooked, switch the slow cooker to WARM. Stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.<\/p>\n
Tip: The cheese helps thicken the sauce and create a creamy coating on the pasta.<\/p>\n
Step 5: Rest before serving
\nCover and let it sit for 5\u201310 minutes so the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors settle into a hearty, cohesive dish.<\/p>\n
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