Coney Chili Mac Casserole

why make this recipe

Coney Chili Mac Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that brings the best of two worlds together—chili and macaroni. It’s great for family dinners, potlucks, or when you want a meal that fills you up. This recipe is easy to make and uses simple ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, everyone loves cheese, and this dish has plenty of it!

how to make Coney Chili Mac Casserole

Ingredients :

1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 ounces) chili beans
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups elbow macaroni, cooked
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Directions :

Preheat the oven to 350°F.
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned and the onion is tender.
Drain any excess fat from the skillet, then stir in the chili beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and beef mixture.
Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve hot and enjoy!

how to serve Coney Chili Mac Casserole

You can serve Coney Chili Mac Casserole straight from the oven. It works well with a side salad, some garlic bread, or corn chips for crunch. You can also top each serving with green onions, sour cream, or jalapeños for extra flavor.

how to store Coney Chili Mac Casserole

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool down first. Then, place it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze it if you want to enjoy it later. Just make sure to cover it tightly before freezing. It should be eaten within three months for the best taste.

tips to make Coney Chili Mac Casserole

Ensure the macaroni is cooked al dente, as it will cook a bit more in the oven.
Feel free to adjust spices to suit your taste. If you like it spicier, add more chili powder or some hot sauce.
For a creamier texture, you can add some cream cheese or sour cream to the meat mixture.
You can also mix in some vegetables like bell peppers or corn for added nutrition.

variation

If you want a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or your favorite meat alternative. You can also use other types of cheese like pepper jack for a little kick or mozzarella for a different flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I make Coney Chili Mac Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole and store it in the fridge before baking. Just cover it tightly and bake it when you’re ready to eat.

2. Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, like penne or rotini. Just adjust the cooking time based on the shape you choose.

3. How do I reheat leftovers?
To reheat, place the portions in a microwave-safe dish and heat until warm. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15–20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.