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If you’re searching for the best dinner ideas that strike a balance between comfort, budget, and nutrition, Chili Mac Casserole is the answer. Blending the bold flavors of chili with everyone’s favorite cheesy macaroni, this one-dish wonder guarantees smiles at the supper table. Whether you’re a busy parent planning healthy dinner ideas, hosting a casual get-together, or just craving an easy weeknight dinner, this casserole delivers on taste and simplicity.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to prepare ready in under an hour
Kid-approved and beginner-friendly
Uses pantry staples for cheap dinners for a family
Perfect for meal prep or lazy dinners when time is tight

Ingredient List

Below is everything you’ll need. Using trusted kitchen equipment can make this process even easier try a food processor for chopping, cutting board for prep, and reliable pots for boiling pasta.

Ingredient	Amount
Uncooked elbow macaroni	2 cups
Lean ground beef	2 lb
Chili seasoning mix	1 (1.75-oz) package
Diced tomatoes, undrained	1 (15-oz) can
Diced tomatoes and green chiles, undrained	1 (10-oz) can
Tomato paste	1 (6-oz) can
Chili beans, undrained	1 (16-oz) can
Shredded cheddar cheese	2 cups

Equipment List

Make preparation effortless using these essentials:

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep Ingredients

Preheat oven to 375ºF and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Boil 2 cups elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside using a reliable colander strainer basket.

Step 2: Cook Beef

In a skillet, cook 2 lb lean ground beef until no longer pink. Drain the fat using a heat-resistant pot.

Step 3: Combine and Mix

Add the cooked beef, chili seasoning mix, diced tomatoes, diced tomatoes with green chiles, tomato paste, and chili beans to a large mixing bowl. Stir in the drained macaroni until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese over the top.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for another 5 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Tips for the Best Chili Mac Casserole

For an extra punch, add diced bell peppers or onions.
Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter twist.
Try different cheeses for varied flavor Monterey Jack or pepper jack both work well.
Make it a freezer-friendly meal: Assemble and freeze unbaked, then thaw and bake when needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make Chili Mac Casserole Ahead?

Yes! Assemble, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours ahead. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking cold.

What Sides Go Well?

A crisp salad, garlic bread, or steamed veggies are perfect companions.

Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta?

Absolutely just swap equal amounts for gluten-free elbow macaroni.

Is This Kid-Friendly?

Definitely! The mild chili seasoning and cheesy noodles make it appealing for picky eaters.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store cooled leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge up to 4 days. Reheat by covering with foil and warming in the oven.

Your Next Step

Ready to bring comfort and flavor to your table? This easy Chili Mac Casserole is ideal for “Lazy Dinners” and “Healthy Dinner Ideas.” Don’t forget to use the right equipment check out the affiliate links above for essential kitchen gear!

Chili Mac Casserole: Quick, Cheesy Dinner for Fami

Print Recipe

Chili Mac Casserole is a hearty, budget-friendly comfort food that combines classic chili flavors with creamy, cheesy macaroni in one easy baking dish. Perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners, this kid-friendly recipe is ready in under 45 minutes and uses simple pantry staples.

Author: Alex
Prep Time: 15
Cook Time: 35
Total Time: 50
Yield: 8
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni

2 lb lean ground beef

1 (1.75-oz) package chili seasoning mix

1 (15-oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained

1 (10-oz) can diced tomatoes and green chiles, undrained

1 (6-oz) can tomato paste

1 (16-oz) can chili beans, undrained

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375ºF. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.

2. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

3. In a skillet, cook ground beef until no longer pink. Drain fat.

4. Combine cooked meat, chili seasoning, diced tomatoes, diced tomatoes and green chiles, tomato paste, and chili beans. Stir in the cooked pasta.

5. Spread chili mac into the baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.

6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, until cheese has melted.

Notes

For extra flavor, add diced bell peppers or onions to the ground beef while cooking.

Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

This casserole is freezer-friendly. Assemble unbaked, wrap tightly, and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

For a spicier kick, use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.

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