Coney Chili Mac Casserole

Coney Chili Mac Casserole 🌶️🍝

This Coney Chili Mac Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining the rich, savory flavors of chili with the creamy, cheesy goodness of macaroni. It’s hearty, satisfying, and packed with flavor—perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or bringing to potlucks. With its gooey cheese topping and optional crunchy finish, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite.

Let’s dive into how to make this deliciously comforting casserole step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. One-Pan Wonder : Minimal cleanup—everything bakes together in one dish.
2. Comfort Food Classic : Combines the best of chili and mac ‘n’ cheese in one dish.
3. Customizable : Add toppings like crushed crackers or crispy onions for extra texture.
4. Make-Ahead Friendly : Prep ahead and bake when ready, making it perfect for busy days.
5. Kid-Friendly : A hit with kids and adults alike—perfect for picky eaters.

Ingredients

(Serves 6)

For the Casserole:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• ½ cup beef broth
• 1 tbsp mustard
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

Optional Topping:

• Crushed crackers (like Ritz or butter crackers )
• Crispy onions (like French’s Fried Onions )

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
2. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Stir in the cooked elbow macaroni , tomato sauce , beef broth , mustard , and chili powder into the skillet with the cooked beef. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish

1. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
2. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

1. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes .
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes , or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Add Optional Topping

1. If desired, sprinkle crushed crackers or crispy onions on top for added crunch before serving.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
2. Serve warm and enjoy the hearty, cheesy goodness of this Coney Chili Mac Casserole !

Tips for Success

1. Use Leftover Pasta : Save time by using leftover cooked macaroni or even other pasta shapes like shells or penne.
2. Add Veggies : Stir in diced bell peppers, onions, or jalapeños for extra flavor and nutrition.
3. Spice It Up : Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
4. Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days . Reheat in the microwave or oven with a splash of broth or milk to keep it moist.
5. Freeze for Later : Assemble the casserole (without baking), cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Perfect Pairings

This Coney Chili Mac Casserole pairs beautifully with:

• Green Salad : A crisp green salad or Caesar salad adds a refreshing contrast.
• Garlic Bread : Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
• Steamed Vegetables : Serve with broccoli, green beans, or carrots for added nutrition.
• Hot Sauce or Sriracha : Add a dash for those who like a little heat.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

(Based on 6 servings)

• Calories : ~350 kcal
• Protein : ~20g
• Carbohydrates : ~30g
• Fat : ~18g
• Fiber : ~2g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

This Coney Chili Mac Casserole is a comforting, indulgent dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. The combination of tender macaroni, savory chili-spiced beef, and melty cheese creates a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to love. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, bringing it to a potluck, or meal prepping for the week, it’s a recipe that delivers big on flavor with minimal effort.

The best part? It’s endlessly customizable, so you can tweak the spices, add veggies, or experiment with different toppings to make it your own. So grab your ingredients, toss them into that casserole dish, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.