Chili Mac Casserole
Chili Mac Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that brings together the richness of chili and the warmth of macaroni. This hearty dish merges tender elbow macaroni with a robust chili mixture, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. If you’re looking for a quick, simple, and filling dinner solution, this casserole is perfect for a family gathering or a cozy night in.
Why We Love This Chili Mac Casserole Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Chili Mac Casserole. First and foremost, it combines two beloved comfort foods—chili and macaroni and cheese—into one delightful dish. It’s perfect for the whole family, delighting kids and adults alike. The recipe is straightforward and quick, allowing you to whip it up even on the busiest weeknights. Additionally, its versatility means you can customize it to your taste, whether you like it spicier or prefer a classic milder version. Each bite offers a burst of flavor, making it a satisfying meal that warms your heart and fills your belly.
Ingredients about Chili Mac Casserole
To create this mouthwatering Chili Mac Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 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
How to Make Chili Mac Casserole Directions
Making Chili Mac Casserole is both easy and fun. You can start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. This typically means boiling it in salted water until tender, then draining and setting it aside.
Next, grab a large skillet and cook the lean ground beef over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. Stir everything together until the meat is browned and the onions become tender; this process usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once your meat mixture is ready, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming too greasy.
Now it’s time to jazz up the party! Add the can of diced tomatoes (with juice), kidney beans, tomato paste, and chopped green chiles to the skillet. Sprinkle in the salt, chili powder, ground cumin, and pepper, then stir everything together. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing those flavors to meld together beautifully.
Once the sauce is simmered, gently fold in the cooked macaroni and half of the shredded cheese. This is where the two components of your dish become one harmonious blend. After mixing everything thoroughly, transfer the prepared mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Don’t forget to sprinkle the remaining cheese generously on top to create a cheesy crust.
Now, place the baking dish in your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The aroma from your oven will be irresistible, and your family will likely come running to see what’s cooking! Finally, if you like, garnish your casserole with thinly sliced green onions before serving. This adds a fresh touch of flavor and a pop of color.
How to Serve Chili Mac Casserole
Serving Chili Mac Casserole is as easy as pie! Once it’s out of the oven and has slightly cooled, you can slice it into portions. Serve each helping warm on a plate or in a bowl. If you’re feeling fancy, you can accompany the casserole with sides, such as a crisp garden salad or some homemade cornbread that complements the rich flavors of the dish.
What’s wonderful about this recipe is its flexibility. You can set up a toppings bar with sour cream, additional diced green chiles, or sliced jalapeños for those who prefer their food on the spicier side. You might also want to provide some additional shredded cheese for those cheese lovers in your household. The casserole can be a stand-alone meal but feels complete with simple sides that allow for more flavors and textures to enjoy.
Expert Tips: Chili Mac Casserole
To elevate your Chili Mac Casserole experience, consider these expert tips:
Use high-quality, lean ground beef to keep the dish flavorful and health-conscious. You might also explore ground turkey or chicken as lighter alternatives.
Don’t rush the simmering stage. Allow the pasta and chili mixture to blend and absorb the flavors. The longer you simmer, the richer your casserole will taste.
Experiment with different types of cheese! While the recipe calls for a Mexican cheese blend, feel free to try cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a zesty kick.
Want to make it spicier? Add more chili powder or some diced jalapeños when mixing in your ingredients.
If you’re short on time but still want to enjoy this dish, consider preparing it in advance. Just assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. You can also freeze it for a later date, letting it thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
How to Store Chili Mac Casserole
Storing your Chili Mac Casserole is simple and straightforward. Once the leftovers have cooled down, transfer them to an airtight container. This will keep them fresh and stop any unwanted odors from seeping in. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to three to four days.
If you want to enjoy it at a later date, consider freezing individual portions. Transfer the cooled casserole into freezer-safe containers, ensuring you leave space at the top as it may expand when frozen. When you’re ready to eat it again, just thaw the portions overnight in the fridge and reheat them in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Variation of Chili Mac Casserole
One of the best things about Chili Mac Casserole is its versatility. Here are some variations to customize it just how you like:
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with lentils, tempeh, or black beans for a hearty vegetarian meal.
Add Veggies: Boost the nutritional value by adding chopped bell peppers, corn, or even spinach to the meat mixture.
Different Pastas: While elbow macaroni is traditional, feel free to use other pasta shapes. Penne, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta work just as well.
Cheesy Bliss: Mix in some cream cheese or sour cream with the macaroni and chili for a creamier casserole.
International Flavors: Spice things up with taco seasoning to give your casserole a distinct Mexican twist. You could also try adding curry spices for an interesting take!
FAQ
What is Chili Mac Casserole?
Chili Mac Casserole is a delicious comfort food dish combining macaroni pasta, a hearty chili mix, and cheese, baked together for a satisfying meal.
How long does it take to make Chili Mac Casserole?
From start to finish, it generally takes about 45 minutes to prepare and bake your Chili Mac Casserole.
Can I make Chili Mac Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it when ready to serve.
How do I store leftovers of Chili Mac Casserole?
Once cooled, store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days, or freeze them for longer storage.
Can I customize the flavors of Chili Mac Casserole?
Absolutely! You can add different veggies, change the type of cheese, or adjust the spices to meet your taste preferences. Experiment and find what you love!
Chili Mac Casserole
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni Cook according to package instructions
Meat & Veggies
- 2 pounds lean ground beef (90% lean) Can substitute with ground turkey or chicken
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Canned Goods
- 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
Spices
- 1.25 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 0.5 teaspoon ground cumin
- 0.5 teaspoon pepper
Cheese
- 2 cups shredded reduced-fat Mexican cheese blend Reserve half for topping
Garnish
- Thinly sliced green onions, optional For serving
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until tender, then drain and set aside.
Cooking
- In a large skillet, cook the lean ground beef over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; stir until the meat is browned and the onions become tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Add the diced tomatoes (with juice), kidney beans, tomato paste, and chopped green chiles to the skillet.
- Sprinkle in the salt, chili powder, ground cumin, and pepper; stir well.
- Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Fold in the cooked macaroni and half of the shredded cheese, mixing thoroughly.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with sliced green onions before serving, if desired.
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