Baked Chili Mac Casserole

Baked Chili Mac Casserole

If you’re craving a warm, comforting meal that combines the heartiness of chili with the cheesy goodness of pasta, Baked Chili Mac Casserole is the perfect dish. This satisfying recipe blends tender macaroni, seasoned ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and hearty beans, all topped with a generous layer of melted cheese. It’s a family-friendly meal that is simple to prepare and packed with bold flavors.

Chili mac has long been a favorite comfort food in many American kitchens. It takes the classic flavors of chili and combines them with pasta to create a filling, budget-friendly dish that feeds a crowd. Baking it in the oven with melted cheese on top gives it an extra delicious layer of flavor and texture.

This casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping because it reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day. The spices give the dish a warm, slightly smoky flavor, while the cheese adds a creamy, rich finish that makes every bite irresistible.

Ingredients

Pasta

• 12 oz elbow macaroni (about 3 cups dry)

• 1 teaspoon salt (for boiling water)

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Chili Mixture

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

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• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with juices

• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 tablespoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

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• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for heat

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Cheese Topping

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (optional, for extra melt)

• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook until just al dente, meaning slightly firm to the bite. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Prepare the Chili Base

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Break it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Add the diced onion and cook for about 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Build the Flavor

Add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste to the skillet. Stir well to combine.

Season with chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes so the flavors can blend together.

4. Combine Pasta and Chili

Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet and mix everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the chili sauce.

5. Assemble the Casserole

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the chili mac mixture to a greased baking dish.

Sprinkle the cheddar cheese and mozzarella evenly over the top.

6. Bake

Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.

7. Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Baked Chili Mac Casserole pairs perfectly with cornbread, garlic bread, or a simple green salad. You can also add toppings like sour cream, sliced green onions, or avocado for extra flavor.

With its hearty chili flavor, tender pasta, and melted cheesy topping, Baked Chili Mac Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that the whole family will love. It’s filling, flavorful, and perfect for sharing.