**Baked Mexican Chili Mac Casserole: A Flavorful Fusion of Classic Comfort Foods**
Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that harmoniously blends the comforting flavors of classic macaroni and cheese with the bold and vibrant zest of Mexican cuisine. This delectable Baked Mexican Chili Mac Casserole is a symphony of textures and tastes, featuring tender macaroni enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce, hearty chili con carne brimming with savory ground beef and a medley of spices, and a golden-brown, crispy topping of melted cheese and bread crumbs. It's the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy family dinners, potlucks, or as a hearty main course for casual gatherings. This recipe includes variations for both traditional and vegetarian chili, ensuring that everyone, regardless of dietary preferences, can indulge in this culinary delight. Additionally, the article offers a simplified version of the recipe for those seeking a quicker and easier preparation method. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and create a dish that will leave your loved ones craving for more.
CHILI MAC CASSEROLE
The original of this somewhat spicy mac-&-cheese -- now slightly tweaked -- was found in the 2006 cookbook, Taste of Home Everyday Light Meals.
Provided by Sydney Mike
Categories One Dish Meal
Time 1h
Yield 10 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 13
Steps:
- Cook macaroni according to package directions.
- Meanwhile, in a large nonstick skillet, cook beef, onion & garlic over medium heat until meat is no longer pink, then drain.
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F & coat a 13"x9" baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Add tomatoes, beans, tomato paste, chilies & seasonings to beef mixture & stir to combine.
- Drain macaroni, then add it to the beef mixture, stirring to combine.
- Pour beef & macaroni mixture into the prepared baking dish, then cover & bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly.
- Uncover & sprinkle with the shredded cheese, then return to oven & bake another 5-8 minutes longer or until cheese is melted.
MEXI-MAC CASSEROLE
I typically have most of the ingredients for this dish in my pantry. Green chiles give it a little bite, but it's easy to swap in a can of spicier tomatoes to turn up the heat. -Jan Conklin, Stevensville, Montana
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Dinner
Time 55m
Yield 8 servings.
Number Of Ingredients 12
Steps:
- Prepare macaroni and cheese mix according to package directions. Meanwhile, cook the beef, onion and garlic in a Dutch oven over medium heat until meat is no longer pink, breaking meat into crumbles; drain., Add the diced tomatoes, green chiles and taco seasoning. Stir in 2 cups cheese, beans, corn, tomato sauce and prepared macaroni and cheese dinner., Transfer to a greased 13x9-in. baking dish; sprinkle with chips and remaining cheese., Bake, uncovered, at 350° until bubbly, 30-35 minutes. , Freeze option: Cool unbaked casserole; cover and freeze. To use, partially thaw in refrigerator overnight. Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. Preheat oven to 350°. Bake casserole as directed, increasing time as necessary until heated through and a thermometer inserted in center reads 165°.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 555 calories, Fat 27g fat (13g saturated fat), Cholesterol 101mg cholesterol, Sodium 1330mg sodium, Carbohydrate 33g carbohydrate (11g sugars, Fiber 6g fiber), Protein 33g protein.
MEXI GROUND BEEF CHILI MACARONI CASSEROLE
Sausage meat can be used in place of the ground beef, and any small pasta can be substituted for the macaroni. If you like more chili flavor then add in a couple tablespoons of chili powder. I have even added in some red kidney beans and sliced green olives to this casserole, but that is optional. This casserole can be completely prepared up to 24 hours in advance, cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap, then refrigerate until ready to bake, increase the cooking time slightly. For taco seasoning see recipe #76616.
Provided by Kittencalrecipezazz
Categories Pork
Time 1h43m
Yield 8 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 15
Steps:
- In a large skillet brown the beef with dried chili flakes, onion, garlic and the green pepper until the beef is no longer pink (about 10-12 minutes, make sure the beef is well browned) drain any fat.
- Add in taco seasoning mix with Parmesan cheese; mix to combine and cook 1 minute.
- Add in the cooked chopped bacon, tomato sauce, 2 cans tomato soup and brown sugar (if using); simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season with seasoning salt and pepper and mix in 2 cups shredded Tex-Mex or cheddar cheese.
- Add in the cooked macaroni pasta; mix to combine.
- Set oven to 350 degrees F.
- Grease a 13 x 9-inch casserole dish (or larger).
- Transfer the mixture to the casserole dish.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, then about 2 cups (or more)grated Tex-Mex or cheddar cheese.
- Bake uncovered for about 20 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese has melted.
- Delicious!
Tips:
- Use a variety of chili beans for a more complex flavor.
- Add a can of corn or black beans for extra texture and nutrition.
- If you like your chili mac spicy, add a diced jalapeño or a teaspoon of chili powder.
- For a cheesy topping, sprinkle a cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole before baking.
- Serve the chili mac casserole with sour cream, salsa, and guacamole for a complete meal.
Conclusion:
Baked Mexican chili mac casserole is a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. With its combination of chili, macaroni, cheese, and Mexican spices, this casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. So next time you're looking for a comforting and delicious meal, give this chili mac casserole a try!
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