Coney Chili Mac Casserole

Introduction

There’s something undeniably satisfying about comfort food that brings together the richness of chili, the heartiness of pasta, and the gooey goodness of cheese. Enter the Coney Chili Mac Casserole—a homestyle favorite that’s as simple to prepare as it is to devour. Whether you’re feeding a family on a busy weeknight or contributing to a potluck, this dish offers nostalgic flavors in a casserole format that’s oven-ready and irresistibly delicious. Inspired by classic coney dogs, this chili mac hybrid is bound to become a regular on your meal rotation.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 tbsp mustard
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Optional Topping:

• Crushed crackers or crispy onions

Preparation

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to fully preheat while you prepare the casserole.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it up as it cooks, ensuring even browning. This should take about 6–8 minutes. Once browned, carefully drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Make the Chili Sauce
To the skillet with the browned beef, add the tomato sauce, beef broth, mustard, and chili powder. Stir the mixture thoroughly so the spices and liquids are well combined. Let this simmer on low heat for 5–10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Combine with Macaroni and Cheese
Turn off the heat and gently fold in the cooked elbow macaroni and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until everything is evenly coated and distributed.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
Spoon the beef and macaroni mixture into a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out to create an even layer.

Step 6: Top and Bake
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole. For an added textural contrast, top with crushed crackers or crispy onions if you’d like. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.

Step 7: Cool and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This rest time allows the flavors to settle and makes slicing easier.

Variations

• Turkey Swap: Substitute ground turkey for a leaner version.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for extra heat.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace beef with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth.
• Loaded Option: Stir in some chopped onions, bell peppers, or jalapeños for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Notes

• Macaroni Doneness: Make sure your pasta is cooked al dente before adding it to the casserole. Overcooked pasta may become too soft during baking.
• Cheese Choices: While cheddar is classic, feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for variety.
• Storage Tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It reheats well in the microwave or oven.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli to balance the richness.
• Garlic bread or cornbread makes a hearty sidekick for this casserole.
• Add a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce on individual servings for a flavor boost.

Tips

• Batch Cooking: Double the recipe and freeze one casserole (before baking) for a future no-fuss dinner.
• Portion Control: Bake in smaller ramekins for individual servings, perfect for meal prep.
• Crunch Factor: Don’t skip the cracker or onion topping—it provides a wonderful contrast to the creamy interior.

Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information (Estimates per serving, based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 23g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 680mg

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Is this freezer-friendly?
Absolutely. Wrap it well in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

Can I use other pasta shapes?
Yes, rotini or penne work just as well, though elbow macaroni is traditional for chili mac.

Conclusion

With its comforting flavors and easy assembly, Coney Chili Mac Casserole is the ultimate family dinner solution. It captures the essence of classic American comfort food in one hearty, satisfying dish. Whether you’re planning a casual dinner or need a dependable potluck option, this casserole delivers every time. Make it once, and it might just become your new favorite weeknight go-to.

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