Chili Mac Casserole is a delightful dish that combines the comforting flavors of chili with the simplicity of macaroni and cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish is not only hearty but also incredibly satisfying. You’ll find that the vibrant mix of ingredients creates a rich, savory experience that leaves everyone wanting more. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be made in one pan, making cleanup a breeze!
Why We Love This Chili Mac Casserole Recipe
This Chili Mac Casserole is a family favorite for several reasons. Firstly, it is a one-pot meal that is both filling and nutritious. The combination of ground beef, beans, and rich tomatoes provides a protein-packed meal that keeps you energized. Additionally, the creamy, cheesy topping creates a mouthwatering finish that appeals to the whole family, making it a surefire hit at the dinner table. This dish is versatile—you can tweak the ingredients to suit your taste, and it’s great for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this casserole is sure to impress.
Ingredients about Chili Mac Casserole
- 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
- 2 pounds lean ground beef (90% lean)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (16 ounces) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
- 1 can (4 ounces) chopped green chiles
- 1-1/4 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 2 cups shredded reduced-fat Mexican cheese blend
- Thinly sliced green onions, optional for garnish
How to Make Chili Mac Casserole Directions
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Make sure to drain it well and set it aside, allowing it to cool slightly while you prepare the savory filling.
Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook it, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s well browned. This usually takes around 5 to 7 minutes. You can then add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, stirring to incorporate them into the beef. The aroma of the onion and garlic will elevate the flavors of your casserole, so be sure to let them cook until the onion becomes translucent.
Once the beef mixture is completely cooked, carefully drain any excess fat. This will help keep the dish from becoming greasy and ensures a cleaner taste. Now, it’s time to add in the heart of the dish: the diced tomatoes, rinsed kidney beans, tomato paste, separated green chiles, salt, chili powder, ground cumin, and pepper. Stir everything together until it is thoroughly mixed. Let this mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
After your filling has simmered, fold in the cooked elbow macaroni and half of the shredded cheese. This will create a delicious blend that is packed with flavor. Now, transfer this hearty mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top to create a bubbly, golden crust as it bakes. Place the dish in the preheated oven and allow it to bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly.
If you’d like, garnish the finished casserole with thinly sliced green onions before serving. This adds a nice freshness to the dish and elevates its presentation.
How to Serve Chili Mac Casserole
Chili Mac Casserole is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. You can dish it up directly from the baking dish family-style, allowing everyone to help themselves. For a touch of elegance, consider serving the casserole in individual ramekins, especially if you’re entertaining guests. This not only looks great but also makes it easy for everyone to enjoy their own portion.
Pair the casserole with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. The freshness of the salad complements the rich flavors of the casserole beautifully. If you want to elevate the flavor profile even more, provide toppings such as sour cream, salsa, or sliced jalapeños on the side. This way, guests can customize their bowls according to their tastes.
Expert Tips: Chili Mac Casserole
To ensure your Chili Mac Casserole turns out perfectly every time, keep these expert tips in mind. First, choose lean ground beef to avoid excessive grease. This will help keep your dish from becoming too oily and will create a nicer texture. If you prefer a spicier version, consider adding additional chili powder or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture.
Second, don’t skip the step of allowing the flavors to simmer. This is where the magic happens—the ingredients meld together to create a harmonious taste that is key to this dish. Third, if you have any leftovers, don’t hesitate to experiment! Adding different vegetables or even leftover proteins can breathe new life into the dish.
Finally, consider using gluten-free elbow macaroni if you’re accommodating dietary restrictions. Most importantly, keep it fun—cooking should be enjoyable!
How to Store Chili Mac Casserole
If you happen to have leftovers (which is often the case since this dish is so hearty), storing Chili Mac Casserole is simple. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This ensures that it stays fresh and maintains its flavors. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to three to four days.
If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a viable option. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it can last for about two to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven or microwave. The flavors will remain wonderfully intact, making it just as delightful as when it was freshly baked!
Variation of Chili Mac Casserole
There are countless ways to make this Chili Mac Casserole your own. One popular variation is to swap out the ground beef for turkey or even a meat alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option. You might also experiment with different types of beans such as black beans or pinto beans instead of kidney beans.
For a vegetarian twist, you can leave out the meat entirely and load the casserole up with various vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or zucchini. Adding spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can give it an exciting kick.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try different types of cheese. A sharp cheddar or pepper jack can add a delightful zing. You can mix and match based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences.
FAQ
What is Chili Mac Casserole? Chili Mac Casserole is a comforting dish that combines pasta, seasoned ground beef, beans, and cheese in a baked casserole. It’s filling and full of flavor.
Can I make Chili Mac Casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it in advance. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
How long does leftover Chili Mac Casserole last? Stored properly in the refrigerator, it can last for three to four days. If frozen, it can last for two to three months.
Can I make Chili Mac Casserole vegetarian? Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with meat substitutes or additional vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.
What can I serve with Chili Mac Casserole? Simple sides like a fresh garden salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair wonderfully with this casserole. You can also provide a variety of toppings for guests to customize their servings.
Chili Mac Casserole
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni Cook according to package instructions.
Meat and Vegetables
- 2 pounds lean ground beef (90% lean) Use lean ground beef to reduce grease.
- 1 medium onion, chopped Adds flavor to the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances the overall flavor.
Canned Goods
- 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained Provides moisture and flavor.
- 1 can (16 ounces) kidney beans, rinsed and drained Packed with protein.
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste Thickens the sauce.
- 1 can (4 ounces) chopped green chiles Adds mild heat.
Seasonings
- 1.25 teaspoons salt Adjust to taste.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder Adds flavor and spice.
- 0.5 teaspoon ground cumin Enhances dish complexity.
- 0.5 teaspoon pepper To taste.
Toppings
- 2 cups shredded reduced-fat Mexican cheese blend For a cheesy top layer.
- Thinly sliced green onions Optional for garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
Cooking
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook until well browned, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- Drain any excess fat from the beef mixture.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, kidney beans, tomato paste, chopped green chiles, salt, chili powder, ground cumin, and pepper. Let simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Fold in the cooked elbow macaroni and half of the shredded cheese.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread evenly and top with remaining cheese.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving
- Garnish with sliced green onions before serving. Serve directly from the baking dish or in individual ramekins.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!