Description
A hearty and comforting Coney Chili Mac Casserole combining flavorful ground beef chili with tender elbow macaroni and melted cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, baked to perfection. Ideal for a family-friendly dinner that is both satisfying and easy to make within 50 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
Seasonings and Sauces
- 1 packet chili seasoning
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Grains and Pasta
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
Dairy
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Others
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole later.
- Cook Onions: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Brown Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions. Cook until browned thoroughly, then drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Add Seasonings and Simmer: Stir in chili seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, tomato sauce, kidney beans, and water. Let this chili mixture simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors well.
- Cook Macaroni: While the chili mixture simmers, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Combine Macaroni and Chili: In a large casserole dish, mix the cooked macaroni with the chili mixture, ensuring even distribution of ingredients.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top of the combined macaroni and chili.
- Bake Covered: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and cheese to start melting.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes until the cheese topping is fully melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving to let it set for an easier portioning and to avoid burns.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- For more spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the chili mixture.
- Use gluten-free macaroni to make the dish suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Adding a crunchy breadcrumb topping before baking is a delicious optional addition.
