Chili Mac is the ultimate comfort food that combines the rich flavors of chili with the satisfying texture of macaroni. It’s the perfect dish for family dinners or game day gatherings when you need something hearty and filling. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder that’s easy to whip up, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Imagine a warm, cheesy casserole bubbling away in the oven, with layers of pasta, ground meat, and savory chili all coming together. This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile; you can customize it with your favorite toppings, like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.
Hearty Chili Mac Casserole Overview
Chili Mac is the quintessential comfort food that harmoniously merges the bold flavors of chili with the delightful texture of macaroni.
This dish stands out for its ability to satisfy cravings while being simple to prepare, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Imagine a bubbling casserole, rich with layers of pasta, savory ground beef, and zesty seasoning, creating an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen.
Why Choose Chili Mac?
This Chili Mac dish is not just filling; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures.
The combination of creamy elbow macaroni, hearty ground beef, and colorful beans results in a meal that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
It’s versatile enough to adapt to personal preferences—feel free to add your favorite toppings like tangy sour cream or fresh herbs.
What’s Inside the Casserole?
At the heart of this chili mac casserole lies a scrumptious blend of rich ingredients.
Ground beef or turkey, spiced to perfection, merges beautifully with chili beans and diced tomatoes, creating a flavorful base.
The elbow macaroni absorbs the savory broth, making every bite a delightful experience, topped off with melted cheddar cheese that adds a creamy finish.
The Cooking Process
The preparation of this dish is straightforward and rewarding.
Starting with browning the meat alongside onions and garlic, the aromatic foundation sets the stage for the rest of the ingredients to shine.
Once brought to a boil and allowed to simmer, the mixture transforms into a hearty filling that can be easily transferred to a rustic baking dish, ready for the oven.
Baking to Perfection
As the casserole bakes, the cheese melts into a golden layer, creating a mouthwatering crust.
Covering it initially helps retain moisture, while the final uncovered baking allows for that perfect bubbly finish that everyone loves.
When it’s finally out of the oven, a sprinkle of fresh green onions adds a pop of color and flavor to the presentation.
Serving Suggestions
This chili mac casserole is best served hot, straight from the oven.
Pair it with a slice of crusty bread to soak up every last bit of flavor.
Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish promises to warm hearts and satisfy appetites, making it an instant favorite on any table.
Delicious Chili Mac Casserole
This Chili Mac is a scrumptious blend of macaroni, spiced ground beef, and zesty tomatoes mixed with chili seasoning, all baked to perfection. It’s comforting, filling, and bursting with flavor, making it a favorite for both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) chili beans, undrained
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups beef or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the meat is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Ingredients: Stir in the chili beans, diced tomatoes, macaroni, broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, until the macaroni is tender.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Allow to cool slightly before garnishing with green onions or parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
