Picture this: a warm, bubbling casserole fresh out of the oven, its savory aromas wafting through the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. That’s exactly what my Chili Mac Casserole brings—a comforting blend of flavors that feels like a warm hug on a cold day.
I discovered this delightful dish during one of those hectic weeknights when takeaway seemed too tempting, yet I craved something homemade. With just a handful of ingredients, it came together effortlessly and quickly became a family favorite. The juicy ground beef melds perfectly with the hearty macaroni, while the spices and melted cheese elevate the entire experience to a new level of deliciousness.
Whether you’re looking for a satisfying meal to impress guests or simply want to break free from the fast-food rut, this casserole is not just easy to prepare—it’s also a hearty crowd-pleaser that appeals to both young and old alike. Grab your apron, and let’s whip up this comforting Chili Mac Casserole that’s sure to create lasting memories around your dinner table!
Why love this Chili Mac Casserole?
Packed with flavor, this Chili Mac Casserole delivers a savory punch combining ground beef, zesty spices, and gooey cheese for an irresistible experience. Effortless preparation means you can whip this up in under an hour, fitting easily into your busy week. Heartwarming and familial, it serves as the perfect dish for gatherings, beautifully bridging generations. Versatile enough to customize with your favorite toppings, from jalapeños to sour cream, it keeps mealtime exciting. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a way to bring everyone together, making it a must-try on your culinary journey!
Chili Mac Casserole Ingredients
For the Casserole
• Uncooked elbow macaroni – This serves as the comforting base that brings everything together.
• Lean ground beef (90% lean) – Choosing lean beef helps keep the casserole hearty yet not overly greasy.
• Medium onion, chopped – Adds a natural sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.
• Garlic cloves, minced – Infuses the casserole with aromatic goodness, making it even more inviting.
• Diced tomatoes (28 ounces), undrained – Provides moisture and a tangy richness that complements the dish.
• Kidney beans (16 ounces), rinsed and drained – Adds a hearty texture and protein boost for extra satisfaction.
• Tomato paste (6 ounces) – Thickens the casserole and deepens the tomato flavor, creating a robust sauce.
• Chopped green chiles (4 ounces) – Brings a mild kick that elevates the overall taste without overwhelming.
• Salt (1-1/4 teaspoons) – Essential for enhancing and balancing the flavors in the casserole.
• Chili powder (1 teaspoon) – Infuses warmth and a bit of spice, making it the perfect chili base for this Chili Mac Casserole.
• Ground cumin (1/2 teaspoon) – Adds an earthy note that beautifully complements the chili flavors.
• Pepper (1/2 teaspoon) – A sprinkle of pepper brightens the overall flavor profile.
• Shredded reduced-fat Mexican cheese blend (2 cups) – Melts beautifully on top, creating a deliciously gooey layer.
Optional Topping
• Thinly sliced green onions – Adds a fresh crunch and a pop of color to your final dish.
How to Make Chili Mac Casserole
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Cook macaroni: Boil the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly while preparing the beef mixture.
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Sauté beef: In a large nonstick skillet, cook the lean ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic over medium heat. Stir frequently until the meat is no longer pink and crumbled; drain the excess fat afterward.
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Combine ingredients: Add the undrained diced tomatoes, kidney beans, tomato paste, green chiles, and seasonings to the beef mixture. Stir well and let simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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Mix in macaroni: Gently fold the drained macaroni into the beef mixture until everything is evenly incorporated and the pasta is coated in the savory sauce.
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Prepare baking dish: Transfer the entire mixture into a 13×9-inch baking dish that you’ve lightly coated with cooking spray, ensuring it’s evenly spread.
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Bake covered: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and heated through.
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Add cheese: Remove the foil and sprinkle the Mexican cheese blend evenly over the top. Return it to the oven, baking for an additional 5-8 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
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Garnish (optional): If desired, top with thinly sliced green onions for a burst of color and freshness before serving.
Optional: Serve with a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Chili Mac Casserole
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Quality Meat: Use lean ground beef to keep the dish hearty without being greasy. Avoid higher fat blends to keep your casserole light yet satisfying.
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Cooking Pasta: Be sure to cook the macaroni just until al dente; it will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooked pasta can turn mushy in your Chili Mac Casserole.
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Seasoning Balance: Always taste your beef mixture after adding spices. Adjust chili powder and cumin to fit your family’s spice preferences, ensuring a well-seasoned dish.
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Cheese Layer: For an even melt, use a good quality shredded cheese. If you prefer a cheesier casserole, feel free to add additional cheese on top before the final baking step.
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Baking Tips: Cover the casserole with foil for the first part of baking to retain moisture, ensuring a perfect blend of flavors. Remove the foil later for that delicious golden-brown cheese topping.
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Storage Advice: Leftover Chili Mac Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It reheats beautifully in the oven or microwave!
What to Serve with Chili Mac Casserole?
Picture the comforting aroma filling your home, as you gather around the table to enjoy this hearty meal.
- Garlic Bread: This warm, crusty delight adds a satisfying crunch and perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your casserole.
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole.
- Corn on the Cob: The sweet, crunchy kernels play beautifully against the savory flavors of the chili mac, making each bite delightful.
- Sautéed Vegetables: Stir-fried zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots provide vibrant colors and nutrients, complementing the hearty dish nicely.
- Coleslaw: Creamy, tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the casserole’s warmth with a delightful texture.
- Black Bean Salsa: A zesty salsa made with black beans, corn, and diced avocado introduces fresh flavors that excite the palate without overshadowing the casserole.
- Fruit Salad: End the meal with a light fruit salad, offering a sweet, refreshing finish to the comforting richness of the casserole.
- Iced Tea: A tall glass of iced tea, whether sweetened or unsweetened, quenches your thirst while enhancing the comforting vibes of the meal.
- Chocolate Brownies: For dessert, fudgy brownies serve as the perfect sweet ending, leaving everyone satisfied and smiling after the savory feast.
Storage Tips for Chili Mac Casserole
Room Temperature: Chill leftovers within 2 hours if left out to prevent bacterial growth; however, it’s best for short-term storage.
Fridge: Store leftover Chili Mac Casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving, ensuring it’s hot all the way through.
Freezer: Freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake until heated through.
Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven, covered, at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
Make Ahead Options
These Chili Mac Casserole preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the entire casserole (except for the cheese topping) up to 24 hours in advance; simply assemble the dish before covering it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerating. To maintain the best quality, avoid baking until you’re ready to serve. When you’re set to indulge, bake the casserole covered at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, removing the foil to add cheese for the final 5-8 minutes to achieve that perfect melt. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort, making dinner time feel like a cherished occasion.
Chili Mac Casserole Variations
Make this comforting Chili Mac Casserole uniquely yours with these fun twists and swaps!
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Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or meat alternatives for a hearty plant-based option. You’ll still enjoy the rich flavors with your favorite legumes.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper in the beef mixture for an extra layer of warmth. Spice lovers will relish the heat that elevates the dish!
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Cheesy Delight: Switch to a blend of sharp cheddar and pepper jack cheese for a zesty, bold cheese layer. The combination will melt beautifully, resulting in a gorgeous top.
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Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free macaroni or even zucchini noodles to make this casserole suitable for gluten-sensitive eaters. You’ll keep the comforting essence while accommodating dietary needs.
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Beans Galore: Mix in black beans or pinto beans alongside kidney beans for an added texture and flavor boost. The more beans, the merrier in terms of heartiness!
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Creamy Layer: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream before baking for a rich, creamy texture. This added element makes each bite luscious and comforting.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the beef mixture for a fresh pop of flavor. Herbs enhance the aroma while adding a delightful garnish.
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Topping Switch-Up: Instead of green onions, try crushed tortilla chips or even barbecue potato chips on top for an unexpected crunch. Change up traditional toppings for a fun twist!
Chili Mac Casserole Recipe FAQs
What type of pasta should I use for Chili Mac Casserole?
I recommend using uncooked elbow macaroni as it’s the traditional choice for this dish, providing the perfect bite-sized base. However, you can also substitute with small shells or rotini if you prefer a twist!
How should I store leftover Chili Mac Casserole?
For the fridge, place your leftovers in an airtight container, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. I like to reheat in the oven for even results, but the microwave works fine for quick meals too!
Can I freeze Chili Mac Casserole?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, and then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 375°F until heated through, about 25-30 minutes.
What should I do if the casserole seems too dry?
If you find your Chili Mac Casserole is dry after baking, you can add a splash of beef broth or water before reheating. This will help retain moisture and give you that creamy texture we all love. Just stir it gently and cover with foil while reheating!
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Of course! Simply substitute the elbow macaroni with a gluten-free pasta variety. You’ll be surprised that you can enjoy this comforting Chili Mac Casserole without compromising on flavor!
Can my pets share this dish with me?
I wouldn’t recommend it. The spices, particularly chili powder and garlic, can be harmful to pets. It’s best to stick with pet-friendly treats for them while you savor this cozy meal!
Savory Chili Mac Casserole for Ultimate Comfort Food Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly while preparing the beef mixture.
- In a large nonstick skillet, cook the lean ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic over medium heat. Stir frequently until the meat is no longer pink and crumbled; drain the excess fat afterward.
- Add the undrained diced tomatoes, kidney beans, tomato paste, green chiles, and seasonings to the beef mixture. Stir well and let simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Gently fold the drained macaroni into the beef mixture until everything is evenly incorporated and the pasta is coated in the savory sauce.
- Transfer the entire mixture into a 13x9-inch baking dish that you’ve lightly coated with cooking spray, ensuring it’s evenly spread.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and heated through.
- Remove the foil and sprinkle the Mexican cheese blend evenly over the top. Return it to the oven, baking for an additional 5-8 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
- If desired, top with thinly sliced green onions for a burst of color and freshness before serving.