Baked Chili Mac Casserole (Easy Cheesy Comfort Food)

If you love chili and macaroni and cheese, this Baked Chili Mac Casserole is the perfect combination of both. It’s a hearty, cheesy, and satisfying dish packed with seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, rich tomato chili sauce, and plenty of melted cheese.

This comforting casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep. Everything comes together in one dish and bakes into a delicious, bubbling meal that everyone will love.

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Why You’ll Love This Baked Chili Mac

This recipe has become a favorite comfort food for many reasons:

Quick and easy dinner
Simple ingredients and minimal prep make this perfect for busy nights.

Rich and hearty flavor
Ground beef, chili spices, and tomato sauce create a bold, satisfying taste.

Cheesy and comforting
Melted cheese on top makes this casserole irresistible.

Family-friendly meal
Even picky eaters enjoy this classic combination.

Great for leftovers
It tastes even better the next day.

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Ingredients for Baked Chili Mac Casserole

To prepare this delicious casserole, you will need:

• 1 lb ground beef

• 2 cups elbow macaroni

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 tablespoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Optional toppings:

• chopped green onions

• sour cream

• jalapeños

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How to Make Baked Chili Mac Casserole

Follow these simple steps to make this comforting dish.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3–4 minutes until softened.

Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Then add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.

Step 3: Add the Chili Ingredients

Stir in:

• tomato sauce

• diced tomatoes

• kidney beans

• chili powder

• paprika

• cumin

• salt and pepper

Let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Chili

Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet and stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the chili mixture.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish and spread evenly.

Top generously with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the casserole for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with green onions, sour cream, or jalapeños if desired.

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Tips for the Best Chili Mac Casserole

Use freshly shredded cheese
It melts better and gives a creamier texture.

Don’t overcook the pasta
Cook it al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven.

Adjust the spice level
Add more chili powder or cayenne if you like it spicy.

Add extra vegetables
Bell peppers, corn, or zucchini work great in this recipe.

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Delicious Variations

You can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste.

Spicy Chili Mac
Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce.

Tex-Mex Version
Mix in corn and top with tortilla chips.

Turkey Chili Mac
Substitute ground turkey for a lighter option.

Extra Cheesy Version
Add cream cheese or Monterey Jack cheese.

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What to Serve with Baked Chili Mac

This casserole pairs well with simple side dishes:

• fresh green salad

• garlic bread

• roasted vegetables

• coleslaw

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Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer:
Freeze the casserole for up to 2 months.

Reheating:
Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave individual portions.