Chili Mac Casserole

This Chili Mac Casserole is a delightful blend of ground beef, hearty pasta, and gooey cheese, making it an ideal choice for family dinners. It combines the comforting flavors of chili and macaroni and cheese into one delicious baked dish. Perfect for weeknight meals or casual gatherings, this casserole is sure to please both kids and adults alike with its warm, filling nature.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe can be ready in under an hour.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: The combination of taco seasoning and cheese creates a rich flavor profile that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main dish or pair it with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy goodness, while adults appreciate its heartiness.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and bake it when you’re ready for a warm dinner.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Below are the tools you’ll need to whip up this chili mac casserole.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Skillet
• Pot for Boiling Pasta
• 13×9 Baking Dish
• Mixing Spoon
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Skillet: Ideal for browning the beef evenly while allowing enough space to combine ingredients.
• Pot for Boiling Pasta: Ensures your pasta cooks perfectly al dente before mixing with the other ingredients.
• 13×9 Baking Dish: Provides ample space for layering ingredients, allowing for even baking and melting of cheese.

Ingredients

This chili mac casserole is loaded with beef, pasta, and cheese for an easy family dinner that’s filling too!

For the Beef Mixture

• 1 lb Ground Beef
• 1 medium Onion (diced)
• 14.5 oz. Diced Tomatoes (canned, undrained)
• 1/2 cup Water
• 2 Tbsp. Taco Seasoning (or one packet)

For the Pasta Layer

• 16 oz Elbow Macaroni

For the Cheesy Topping

• 2 cups Cheddar Cheese (shredded, divided)

How to Make Chili Mac Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of water to a boil.
* Add elbow macaroni according to package directions.
* Drain once cooked al dente.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Cook ground beef and diced onion until the beef is no longer pink.
2. Drain excess fat from the skillet.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Return skillet to heat:
1. Add diced tomatoes, water, and taco seasoning.
2. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
3. Simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Mix Everything Together

Add cooked macaroni to the meat mixture in the skillet:
* Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Layer in Baking Dish

Spread half of the mixture in a 13×9 pan:
1. Sprinkle one cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
2. Add remaining meat mixture on top of cheese.

Step 6: Bake Your Casserole

Cover with foil:
1. Bake in preheated oven at 350°F for 30 minutes.
2. Remove foil, sprinkle with remaining cup of cheese.
3. Return uncovered to oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until cheese is melted.

Enjoy your deliciously hearty Chili Mac Casserole, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Chili Mac Casserole

Chili Mac Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for family dinners. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: Toss together mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing and croutons adds crunch and flavor that pairs well with the casserole.

Topped with Avocado

• Sliced Avocado: Add creamy slices of fresh avocado on top for a rich texture that complements the flavors.
• Guacamole: A dollop of guacamole brings a zesty twist and enhances the overall taste.

Accompanied by Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side to soak up any excess sauce while adding delicious flavor.
• Cornbread: A slice of sweet cornbread balances the spices in the chili mac and makes for a delightful pairing.

Drizzled with Hot Sauce

• Spicy Kick: Add your favorite hot sauce to each serving for those who enjoy an extra kick of heat.

Save it!

How to Perfect Chili Mac Casserole

Perfecting your Chili Mac Casserole can turn an already great dish into something extraordinary. Here are tips to help you nail this recipe every time.

• Use Quality Meat: Opt for lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: This ensures your pasta maintains its texture during baking and doesn’t become mushy.
• Add Extra Cheese: For an even cheesier result, mix in additional cheese between layers before baking.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to adjust taco seasoning or add chili powder for more depth of flavor.
• Let it Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps it set up nicely for cutting into portions.
• Garnish Creatively: Use chopped green onions or cilantro as a fresh garnish just before serving for color and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Chili Mac Casserole

To round out your meal, consider these delicious side dishes that pair beautifully with Chili Mac Casserole.

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy coleslaw adds brightness and balances the richness of the casserole.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli provide a healthy complement.
3. Steamed Green Beans: Lightly seasoned steamed green beans offer a simple yet tasty side option.
4. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes can be topped with sour cream and chives for an extra treat.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is always a hit and provides a nice textural contrast to the casserole.
6. Rice Pilaf: A fragrant rice pilaf can serve as another hearty base alongside the chili mac.
7. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness and crunch that everyone will love.
8. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar make a refreshing addition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best chili mac casserole, it’s important to steer clear of common pitfalls that can affect flavor and texture.

• Using too much water: Adding excessive water when cooking the pasta or in the meat mixture can lead to a watery casserole. Always follow the recommended amounts for a perfect balance.
• Not draining the beef: Failing to drain the fat from the cooked ground beef can result in a greasy dish. Make sure to drain thoroughly before adding other ingredients.
• Skipping seasoning: Dismissing the taco seasoning may lead to bland flavors. Use enough seasoning to enhance the overall taste of your chili mac casserole.
• Overcrowding the baking dish: Packing too much into your baking dish can prevent even cooking. Ensure there’s adequate space for heat circulation for best results.
• Not checking cheese doneness: Leaving the casserole in the oven too long after adding cheese can cause it to burn. Keep an eye on it for that perfect melt.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Chili Mac Casserole

• Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Chili Mac Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 25-30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between intervals.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water and heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring often until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chili Mac Casserole?

Chili mac casserole is a hearty dish that combines macaroni pasta, ground beef, tomatoes, and cheese baked together for a comforting meal.

Can I customize my Chili Mac Casserole?

Absolutely! You can add beans, vegetables, or use different types of cheese according to your taste preferences.

How many servings does this recipe yield?

This chili mac casserole serves about 8 people, making it great for family dinners or gatherings.

Can I make Chili Mac Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it ahead and store it in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

Chili mac casserole is not only filling but also versatile. It’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy this delightful comfort food!