Homemade Chili Mac Bake

Introduction:
Enjoy a hearty and comforting meal with Homemade Chili Mac Bake! This flavorful dish combines tender pasta with rich chili and melted cheese, all baked together to create a deliciously satisfying casserole. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this bake is easy to prepare and sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Comforting and hearty: A delicious fusion of chili and macaroni for a filling meal.
• One-dish wonder: Everything bakes together in one pan for easy cleanup.
• Family-friendly: A crowd-pleaser that’s loved by both kids and adults.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level and toppings to suit your taste.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 packet (1 oz) chili seasoning mix
• 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

1. Cook the Beef:

• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
• Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

1. Add Chili Ingredients:

• Stir in the chili seasoning mix, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, and black beans. Cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

1. Prepare the Pasta:

• While the chili mixture simmers, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

1. Combine and Assemble:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the chili mixture. Stir well to combine.
• Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly over the top.

1. Bake:

• Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.

1. Serve:

• Allow the bake to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions if desired. Enjoy!

Tips for Success:

• Cheese: Feel free to use your favorite cheese blend or add more cheese for extra gooeyness.
• Pasta: Ensure the pasta is al dente as it will continue to cook while baking.
• Spice Level: Adjust the chili seasoning mix or add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you prefer a spicier dish.

Recipe Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: Use a plant-based ground meat substitute or add extra beans and vegetables for a meat-free version.
• Extra Veggies: Incorporate diced bell peppers, corn, or zucchini into the chili mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
• Taco Style: Add some taco seasoning or a splash of hot sauce for a Mexican twist.

Serving Suggestions:

• Toppings: Top with sour cream, sliced jalapeños, or avocado for added flavor.
• Side Dish: Pair with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Garnish: Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or green onions for extra flavor.

Freezing and Storage:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.

Special Equipment:

• Skillet: For cooking the beef and mixing the chili ingredients.
• Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch dish is ideal for this casserole.

FAQ:

• Can I use a different type of pasta?
  Yes, you can substitute with other pasta shapes like penne or rotini.
• Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
  Yes, you can prepare it in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. It can also be frozen for later use.
• Can I use homemade chili?
  Absolutely! Homemade chili works great and adds a personal touch to the dish.

Preparation Time:

• 15 minutes for prepping ingredients and cooking the beef.

Cook Time:

• 25 minutes for baking the casserole.

Total Time:

• 40 minutes (including prep and cook time).

Nutrition Information (per serving, assuming 8 servings):

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 23g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fiber: 7g
• Sugar: 6g

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Closing Notes:
Have you tried making this Homemade Chili Mac Bake? We’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts in the comments below and tag us on social media with your delicious casseroles. Stay tuned for more hearty and comforting recipes!