Description
A hearty and comforting Coney Chili Mac Casserole combining seasoned ground beef, kidney beans, and elbow macaroni baked with a cheesy topping. This casserole offers a satisfying blend of chili flavors with melted cheddar and mozzarella cheese, perfect for a family meal.
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
Pasta and Cheese
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Other
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Sauté Onions: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions and cook until browned throughout. Drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from being greasy.
- Add Seasonings and Simmer: Stir in chili seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, tomato sauce, kidney beans, and water into the skillet. Let this chili mixture simmer gently for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors.
- Cook Macaroni: While the chili simmers, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large casserole dish, mix the cooked macaroni with the chili mixture until everything is evenly combined.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake Covered: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese topping is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving to let it set and ensure safe serving temperature.
Notes
- Drain excess fat after browning the beef to reduce greasiness.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
- Adjust chili seasoning to taste for desired spice level.
- Use gluten-free pasta if needed to make the dish gluten-free.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
