Name: Coney Chili Mac Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 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; Crushed Crackers or Crispy Onions (for garnish)

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Are you looking for a dish that’s creamy, flavorful, and sure to make everyone at the table happy? Look no further! The Coney Chili Mac Casserole brings together the best of both worlds—rich chili and comforting macaroni—and transforms them into an easy-to-make casserole that you’ll want to add to your weekly meal rotation. Legend has it that this dish originated near Coney Island, where the melding of flavors creates a punch that will leave your taste buds dancing! It’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights when you want something simple yet packed with flavor. If you’ve enjoyed hearty dishes like our classic Beef Stroganoff, this delightful casserole will be right up your alley! Let’s get cooking!

What is Coney Chili Mac Casserole?

So, what’s in a name, you ask? Coney Chili Mac Casserole might sound like a mouthful, but it’s a delightful combination of elements that treat your taste buds. Imagine chili meeting macaroni in a cheesy embrace! Why “Coney,” you may wonder? It’s all about that sweet, savory taste reminiscent of Coney Island hot dog stands where chili reigns supreme. “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” they say, and this casserole could easily win over anyone—from picky eaters to adventurous foodies. So why not whip up this dish and see if it can conquer your kitchen too?

Why You’ll Love This Coney Chili Mac Casserole

You’re going to love this recipe for three main reasons. First, the highlight of the dish is undeniably its comforting unity of flavors—it’s cheesy, meaty, and just the right amount of spicy thanks to the chili powder. Second, let’s talk about budget. Making this meal at home is much more cost-effective than dining out, saving you money while delivering deliciousness right to your table. Lastly, the toppings! Whether you sprinkle on some crushed crackers for crunch or crispy onions for added flavor, you can customize this dish to your heart’s content. If you enjoyed our Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake, you’re likely to fall head over heels for this casserole too. Why not give it a shot today?

How to Make Coney Chili Mac Casserole: Quick Overview

This recipe is as easy as pie—delicious pie, that is! You’ll be amazed at how straightforward the preparation is, clocking in around 30 minutes from start to finish. What stands out is the rich, velvety sauce that envelops the elbow macaroni and piles of ground beef, creating the ultimate comfort food experience. Let’s dive into the list of ingredients and get the culinary adventure underway!

Ingredients Needed:

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
Crushed crackers or crispy onions (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it nice and toasty while you prepare the dish.
Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, making sure to break it into small pieces for even cooking (about 5-6 minutes).
Combine Ingredients: Once the beef is browned, drain excess fat. Add in the cooked elbow macaroni, tomato sauce, beef broth, mustard, and chili powder. Stir until well combined.
Transfer to Casserole Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the meat and macaroni mixture, ensuring you have an indulgent layer of gooeyness.
Bake the Casserole: Place in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and slightly golden.
Garnish (if desired): Optional: sprinkle crushed crackers or crispy onions on top during the last five minutes of baking for a delightful crunch.

What to Serve with Coney Chili Mac Casserole

Pair this hearty casserole with some refreshing side dishes like a crisp garden salad or cheesy garlic bread to round out the meal. For drinks, consider serving it with a frosty soda or iced tea to balance out the rich flavors. Anyone would appreciate the combination; it’s a casual spread that everyone will love!

Top Tips for Perfecting Coney Chili Mac Casserole

To elevate your chili mac experience, consider these key tips:

Feel free to swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
Want more veggies? Add diced bell peppers or corn into the mix!
If you prefer it spicier, toss in some jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Be mindful not to overbake the casserole; you want that lovely, gooey cheese without it becoming hard.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Leftovers? Yes, please! To store, simply cover the casserole with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to three days. You can also freeze portions in an airtight container for up to three months. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, approximately 15-20 minutes. Just add a splash of beef broth if it feels a bit dry!

FAQs

Can I use other pasta types?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different shapes like penne or shells.

Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, it freezes well! Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.

How can I add more flavors?
Experiment with spices like cumin or paprika for an extra flavor kick!

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a creamy, satisfying meal that’s all about flavor, Coney Chili Mac Casserole might just be your new go-to dish. With its comforting and cheesy nature, it’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you want something hearty yet simple to prepare. We hope this delightful casserole finds a place in your kitchen and your heart! Gather your loved ones and give this recipe a try—before you know it, it’ll be a staple on your dinner table!