This Chili Mac and Cheese Casserole combines two beloved comfort foods—chili and macaroni and cheese—into one hearty, satisfying dish. With layers of creamy cheddar cheese, savory ground beef chili, and tender pasta, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser.
The rich, spicy chili perfectly complements the smooth, cheesy macaroni, making each bite an irresistible blend of flavors. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner for the family or serving a crowd at your next gathering, this dish is sure to become a new favorite. It’s comforting, flavorful, and loaded with deliciousness.
Ingredients:
the Chili:
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
- 1 small onion, diced
- ½ cup bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1.25 oz packet chili seasoning mix (or homemade seasoning, see notes)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 8 oz tomato sauce
- 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes (undrained)
- ½ cup chicken broth (or beef broth)
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained
the Mac and Cheese:
- 2 cups macaroni, uncooked
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- ½ tsp mustard powder
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp each: salt and pepper
- ½ tsp hot sauce
- 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded
Baking:
- 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Make the Chili:
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large pot, cook and crumble the ground beef over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes. Add the diced onions and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the beef is browned and the onions are softened. Drain any excess grease.
- Add Vegetables:
- Add the diced bell pepper and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for about 4 minutes, until the peppers are softened.
- Season the Chili:
- Stir in the chili seasoning mix and tomato paste, cooking for 1 minute to develop the flavors.
- Add Liquids:
- Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with juices), and chicken broth. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer:
- Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and partially cover the pot. Let the chili cook while you prepare the mac and cheese. Add the kidney beans during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Make the Mac and Cheese:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cook the Macaroni:
- Bring salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is foamy, whisk in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 2 minutes.
- Add Dairy:
- Gradually whisk in the heavy cream, followed by the milk, stirring continuously. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Season the Sauce:
- Stir in the mustard powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and hot sauce. Continue stirring until everything is well combined.
- Add Cheese:
- Gradually stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine with Macaroni:
- Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat the pasta completely.
Combine the Chili and Mac and Cheese:
- Mix Together:
- Add the prepared chili to the mac and cheese. Gently stir to combine the two, adjusting the ratio of chili to mac and cheese to your preference.
- Transfer to Casserole Dish:
- If using a pot that’s not oven-safe, transfer the chili mac mixture to a casserole dish.
Bake:
- Top with Cheese:
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole.
- Bake:
- Bake the dish, uncovered, for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Storage Information:
- Refrigeration: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion:
Chili Mac and Cheese Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and packed with savory chili goodness. The combination of mac and cheese with a spicy, flavorful chili creates a dish that’s rich and satisfying.
It’s perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or any time you crave a hearty, filling meal. You can serve it alongside a simple green salad, cornbread, or your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick. Whether it’s for dinner or leftovers, this casserole is sure to become a go-to in your recipe repertoire!
