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Chili Mac and Cheese Casserole

Chili Mac and Cheese Casserole
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Chili Mac and Cheese Casserole is a warm, cheesy, and hearty dish combining gooey cheddar cheese, protein-rich chili, and tender macaroni pasta, baked into a comforting casserole perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. This easy-to-make recipe blends rich flavors with customizable options, delivering satisfying and family-friendly meals that reheat beautifully.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 2 cups macaroni pasta

Meat & Beans

  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey
  • 1 can (15 oz) chili beans

Cheese Sauce

  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk or cream

Chili Base & Aromatics

  • 1 cup tomato sauce or salsa
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Optional Topping

  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil macaroni pasta in salted water until just al dente, about 7-8 minutes, then drain and set aside to prevent overcooking during baking.
  2. Prepare the Chili Mixture: In a large skillet, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat until fragrant and translucent. Add ground beef or turkey and cook until browned and fully cooked. Stir in chili beans, tomato sauce or salsa, chili powder, cumin, and paprika, then simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors.
  3. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk or cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Slowly melt shredded sharp cheddar cheese into the sauce, stirring until smooth and creamy.
  4. Combine and Assemble: In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with the chili mixture until evenly combined. Fold in the cheese sauce until everything is well coated. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading evenly.
  5. Bake and Finish: Optionally, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top for a crispy topping. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use sharp cheddar cheese for its excellent melting quality and bold flavor.
  • Do not overcook pasta to prevent mushiness after baking; al dente is ideal.
  • Sauté onions and garlic thoroughly to develop deep, rich flavor in the chili base.
  • Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley for added freshness.
  • Allow casserole to rest after baking to set and improve texture.
  • For gluten-free option, substitute with gluten-free pasta and omit breadcrumbs.

Nutrition

Keywords: chili mac and cheese, casserole, comfort food, cheesy chili bake, easy dinner, family-friendly, make ahead, freezer friendly

Find it online: https://mydishez.com/chili-mac-and-cheese-casserole/