Chili Mac and Cheese Bake

Comfort food fans, rejoice! This Chili Mac and Cheese Bake is the ultimate family-friendly dish that brings together the best of hearty chili and creamy mac and cheese in one satisfying casserole. It’s got the perfect balance of spices, gooey cheese, and tender elbow macaroni, all baked to golden perfection. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize and even easier to love.

Why I Love This Recipe

This Chili Mac and Cheese Bake hits all the right notes: it’s comforting, filling, and packed with layers of flavor. The combination of ground turkey, kidney beans, and black beans gives it a satisfying texture and protein boost without weighing it down. Plus, the diced tomatoes with green chilies add a subtle kick that lifts the whole dish without making it overpowering. It’s a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze and leaving more time to enjoy the meal with loved ones.

Another reason I keep coming back to this recipe is how versatile it is. Feel free to swap out the cheese or beans based on what you have on hand, or add some extra veggies for an even heartier meal. And for those who love a bit of spice, you can always amp up the chili seasoning. It’s the kind of recipe that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to make week after week.

Ingredient Rundown

• 8 oz elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape holds onto the cheesy chili sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is loaded with flavor.
• 1 lb ground turkey: A lean protein that keeps the dish light but still hearty. You can substitute with ground beef if you prefer a richer taste.
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Adds creaminess and fiber, plus a nice pop of color.
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed: Complements the kidney beans with a slightly different texture and flavor.
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies: Infuses a mild heat and tangy freshness into the chili base.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, cheddar is a must for that classic mac and cheese taste.
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Adds creaminess and a mild flavor that balances the cheddar perfectly.
• 2 cups beef broth: Keeps the pasta moist and infuses the whole dish with savory depth.
• 1 packet chili seasoning mix: The secret blend of spices that brings the chili flavors to life.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the turkey and building flavor from the start.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
• 1/2 cup chopped green onion for garnish: Adds a fresh, bright note and a pop of color when serving.

Hardware & Gadgets

• Large skillet: To brown the ground turkey and sauté the aromatics.
• Medium saucepan or pot: For boiling the elbow macaroni.
• 9×13 inch baking dish: To assemble and bake the chili mac and cheese.
• Mixing spoon or spatula: For stirring the ingredients together.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To keep the ingredient ratios just right.

Cooking Chili Mac and Cheese Bake: The Process

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Turkey

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper as it cooks.

Step 3: Add Beans, Tomatoes, and Seasoning

Stir in the drained kidney beans, black beans, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Sprinkle the chili seasoning mix over the mixture, then pour in the beef broth. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the liquid to reduce slightly.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Cheese

Remove the skillet from heat. Fold in the cooked elbow macaroni, then stir in half of the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and evenly distributed.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheeses evenly on top. Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top for a fresh burst of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!

Health-Conscious Tweaks

• Swap ground turkey with ground chicken breast for an even leaner protein option.
• Use low-sodium beef broth or vegetable broth to control salt intake.
• Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini into the chili mixture for added nutrients.
• Opt for reduced-fat cheese to cut down on saturated fat while maintaining flavor.
• Use whole grain or legume-based pasta for added fiber and protein.

Pro Perspective

From a culinary standpoint, the beauty of this Chili Mac and Cheese Bake lies in its layering of flavors and textures. The chili seasoning should be balanced — not too salty or spicy — to complement the creamy cheeses and tender pasta. For best results, brown the ground turkey thoroughly to develop a rich umami base. Allowing the chili mixture to simmer before combining with pasta ensures the spices and tomatoes meld perfectly.

Don’t skip the baking step; it’s crucial for achieving that irresistible golden crust of melted cheese on top. And for an extra touch of flavor, consider sprinkling a bit of smoked paprika or crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

This recipe is fantastic for meal prep or busy weeknights. You can prepare the chili mixture and cook the pasta up to two days in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. When ready to eat, combine, top with cheese, and bake as directed. Leftovers reheat beautifully in the oven or microwave, making it an efficient, no-fuss dinner option.

For freezer-friendly meal prep, assemble the entire bake (except for the green onion garnish) in a freezer-safe dish. Freeze before baking, then thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as usual.

Reader Q&A

Can I use ground beef instead of ground turkey?

Absolutely! Ground beef works great and will add a richer flavor to your Chili Mac and Cheese Bake. Just choose lean ground beef to keep the dish balanced.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the ground turkey and add extra beans or sautéed vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers for substance. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

What can I substitute for the chili seasoning mix?

If you don’t have a packet on hand, mix together 1 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp paprika, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a homemade blend that works perfectly.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Definitely! Add extra diced green chilies or a dash of hot sauce to the chili mixture before baking. You can also sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top for an added kick.

Weekend Projects

• Chili Cheese Dog Pasta Bake – Another fun twist on chili and pasta that’s perfect for weekend cooking adventures.
• Beefy Mac And Cheese Skillet – A quick skillet version if you want all the comfort without the oven time.

Bring It to the Table

This Chili Mac and Cheese Bake pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed veggies to round out the meal. For a bit of crunch, serve with tortilla chips or garlic bread on the side. It’s ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or casual get-togethers where everyone can dig in and enjoy the cozy flavors.

For a fun twist, top individual servings with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. This dish also holds up well as leftovers, so don’t be surprised if it quickly becomes a weekly favorite in your meal rotation.

This recipe combines ease, flavor, and comfort in one delicious package. Whether you’re a busy home cook or a comfort food lover, this Chili Mac and Cheese Bake will quickly become a go-to dish you make again and again. Happy cooking!

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