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Baked Chili Mac Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic

Baked Chili Mac Casserole is the perfect combination of two beloved comfort foods—hearty chili and creamy macaroni and cheese. This satisfying dish features seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, beans, and plenty of melted cheese, all baked together until bubbly and golden. It is an excellent choice for family dinners, potlucks, or meal preparation because it is filling, flavorful, and easy to customize.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

The beauty of Baked Chili Mac Casserole lies in its balance of textures and flavors. The chili provides a savory, slightly spicy base, while the macaroni adds a comforting softness. The cheese ties everything together with a creamy richness, creating a meal that is both hearty and irresistible.

Ingredients

For the Chili Mixture

1 pound (450 g) ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz/425 g) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz/425 g) diced tomatoes
1 can (8 oz/225 g) tomato sauce
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Pasta

2 cups elbow macaroni
Water for boiling
1 teaspoon salt

For the Topping

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons chopped parsley or green onions (optional)

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente according to the package instructions. Since the pasta will continue cooking in the oven, avoid overcooking it. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Beef and Aromatics

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon. Once the beef is nearly cooked, add the diced onion and continue cooking for 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.