Chili-Mac Casserole
I created this recipe when I wanted to use up some leftover homemade chili. Great comfort food you can make as spicy as you like!
I created this recipe when I wanted to use up some leftover homemade chili. Great comfort food you can make as spicy as you like!
- Carbohydrate 33.9956024498304 g
- Cholesterol 73.3307664186667 mg
- Fat 24.6051265119515 g
- Fiber 1.26957907284742 g
- Protein 23.9423596130269 g
- Saturated Fat 15.292772801338 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving(s) (133g)
- Sodium 662.40437751103 mg
- Sugar 32.726023376983 g
- Trans Fat 1.44648179537004 g
- Calories 453 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- In medium saucepan, simmer chili until heated through.
- Cook macaroni according to package directions; drain well and set aside.
- Grease a deep 8-quart or similar casserole dish.
- Spoon 1 cup of chili evenly on bottom of dish.
- Next, layer half of the macaroni, drizzle half of the ketchup (approx. 1/4 cup), half of the remaining chili and half of the cheeses.
- Repeat layering with remaining macaroni, 1/4 cup ketchup, remainder of chili and remaining cheeses.
- Top with jalapeno slices, if desired.
- Cover and bake 30 minutes.
- Remove cover and bake an additional 10 minutes or until heated through and cheese is bubbly.
My Go-To Comfort Food: Chili-Mac Casserole
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and satisfying meal can feel like a Herculean task. Weeknights are a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework battles, and the ever-present demand for dinner. That’s why I’ve become a master of quick, easy, and incredibly tasty recipes, and this Chili-Mac Casserole is definitely one of my favorites. It's a lifesaver on those nights when I’m short on time but still craving a hearty, comforting meal.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. I originally created it as a way to use up leftover homemade chili – a chili that I'd often make in a large batch on the weekend. The process of making the chili itself is a whole other adventure (and another blog post entirely!), but this recipe takes that flavorful base and transforms it into a cheesy, comforting casserole that's perfect for the family. But, if I’m short on time, or simply don’t have leftover chili, canned chili works just as well! I often add a bit of extra flair – chopped green peppers, onions, or even some canned green chilies and a dash of cayenne pepper to spice things up. Essentially, it’s a blank canvas for whatever extra ingredients I might have on hand. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, too – a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack, like I usually use, is fantastic, but you can get creative based on your preferences and what you have available.
Beyond its convenience and adaptability, this Chili-Mac Casserole holds a special place in our family. It's become a staple for cozy family dinners, particularly during colder months when we crave warm, filling meals. The kids love it, and I find that it often sparks conversations and laughter around the dinner table, creating those precious moments of connection that make the rush of a busy day worth it. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a symbol of warmth, comfort, and family time in our hectic lives.
The layering process itself is strangely satisfying. That careful construction of chili, macaroni, cheese, and ketchup - it's a small act of culinary creativity in the middle of a busy day. And the aroma that fills the kitchen as it bakes? Pure magic. It's a sensory experience that completely melts away the day's stresses. It's a reminder that even amidst the chaos of life, there's always time for a little simple pleasure.
The best part? Clean-up is a breeze! One baking dish is all you need, which is a huge bonus on a busy weeknight. I often find myself making a double batch, especially when we're expecting company, knowing that leftovers will be just as delicious the next day. This casserole is a versatile dish that fits seamlessly into my busy lifestyle, and I know it will become a go-to for you too.
So, the next time you find yourself with leftover chili or simply craving a delicious and easy weeknight meal, give this Chili-Mac Casserole a try. It’s a true testament to the fact that the simplest recipes can often be the most satisfying.
