Coney Chili Mac Casserole

Coney 🕍 Chili Mac Casserole

This Coney Chili Mac Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that combines the flavors of classic Coney Island chili dogs with everyone’s favorite—macaroni! Packed with savory ground beef, zesty chili spices, and gooey melted cheddar cheese, this casserole is a one-pan wonder perfect for busy weeknights or game-day gatherings. It’s like a big hug in a baking dish!

Let’s dive into how to make this deliciously nostalgic Coney Chili Mac Casserole step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Comfort Food Classic : A fusion of chili, macaroni, and cheese—what’s not to love?
2. Easy & Quick : Ready in under 45 minutes with simple pantry staples.
3. One-Pan Wonder : Minimal cleanup—everything bakes together in one dish.
4. Customizable : Add hot dogs, beans, or extra toppings for variety.
5. Perfect for Any Occasion : Great for family dinners, potlucks, or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

(Serves 4–6)

• 1 lb ground beef 🥩
• 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni 🍝
• 1 cup tomato sauce 🍅
• ½ cup beef broth 🥣
• 1 tbsp mustard (yellow or Dijon works well ) 🌭
• 1 tbsp chili powder 🌶️
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese 🧀
• Optional Toppings : Chopped onions, diced pickles, sour cream, or hot sauce 🫒

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked through (about 6–8 minutes ). Drain any excess grease.
2. Stir in the tomato sauce , beef broth , mustard , and chili powder . Simmer for 3–5 minutes , allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 2: Combine with Macaroni

1. Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the skillet with the beef mixture. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the macaroni is evenly coated in the sauce.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Transfer the beef and macaroni mixture to a greased baking dish (about 8×8 inches ).
2. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

Step 4: Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) if it’s not already preheated.
2. Bake the casserole for 15–20 minutes , or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Top with optional garnishes like chopped onions, diced pickles, sour cream, or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor.
3. Serve warm and enjoy the cozy, cheesy goodness!

Tips for Success

1. Add Beans : Stir in a can of drained and rinsed kidney beans or pinto beans for extra protein and texture.
2. Use Hot Dogs : Dice up a couple of hot dogs and sauté them with the ground beef for an authentic Coney Island twist.
3. Make Ahead : Assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate for up to 1 day . Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if starting from cold.
4. Freeze for Later : Freeze the assembled (unbaked) casserole in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
5. Switch Up the Cheese : Use Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.

Perfect Pairings

This Coney Chili Mac Casserole pairs beautifully with:

• Garlic Bread : Serve with warm garlic bread or breadsticks for soaking up any extra sauce.
• Side Salad : Pair with a crisp green salad or coleslaw for a refreshing contrast.
• Sparkling Beverages : Pair with sparkling water, lemonade, or a cold soda for refreshment.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

(Based on 6 servings)

• Calories : ~350 kcal
• Protein : ~20g
• Carbohydrates : ~30g
• Fat : ~18g
• Fiber : ~3g

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

Final Thoughts

This Coney Chili Mac Casserole is a hearty, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner, a holiday gathering, or meal prepping for the week, this casserole delivers on taste and comfort. The combination of savory beef, zesty chili spices, tender macaroni, and melty cheese creates a dish that’s as indulgent as it is nostalgic.

The best part? It’s endlessly customizable, so you can tweak the ingredients, adjust the flavors, or pair it with different sides to make it your own. So grab your ground beef, boil that pasta, and get ready to enjoy a casserole that’s as fun to share as it is to eat.