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Chili Mac and Cheese Casserole

Chili Mac and Cheese Casserole
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Chili Mac and Cheese Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish combining creamy cheddar cheese sauce, tender elbow macaroni, and a flavorful chili mixture of ground beef or turkey, beans, and spices. Perfect for family dinners, this recipe is easy to prepare, customizable, and provides a warm, cheesy, and mildly spicy meal perfect for cozy evenings.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons butter, divided
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour alternative)
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Chili Mixture

  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 can (15 oz) pinto or kidney beans, drained and rinsed

Topping

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed)
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil elbow macaroni until just al dente, about 6-7 minutes. Drain and set aside to prevent overcooking during baking.
  2. Prepare the Chili Mixture: In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant. Add ground beef or turkey and cook until browned. Stir in chili powder, cumin, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and drained beans. Simmer gently for 8–10 minutes to meld flavors.
  3. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually pour in milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, then remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until smooth and creamy.
  4. Combine and Layer: Mix the cooked macaroni with the chili mixture and cheese sauce until well combined. Pour into a greased casserole dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle breadcrumbs and additional shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until the topping is bubbly and golden brown. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to set.

Notes

  • Use sharp cheddar cheese for a sharper flavor that balances the chili’s spice.
  • Do not overcook pasta; keep it al dente to avoid a mushy casserole.
  • Simmer chili mixture longer if possible to develop deeper flavors.
  • Toast breadcrumbs in butter before topping for extra crunch.
  • Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes after baking for firmer slices and better flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: chili mac and cheese, casserole, comfort food, cheesy casserole, easy dinner, family meal

Find it online: https://eazyummy.com/chili-mac-and-cheese-casserole/