Loaded Chili Mac and Cheese Bake

There’s nothing quite like a cozy, comforting dish that brings together the best of two worlds—rich, cheesy mac and cheese and hearty, flavorful chili. The Loaded Chili Mac and Cheese Bake is exactly that—a crowd-pleasing, all-in-one meal that satisfies cravings and warms the soul. This recipe combines tender elbow macaroni with seasoned ground beef, kidney beans, savory tomatoes with green chiles, and a generous helping of melted cheese, all baked to bubbly perfection. It’s an easy dish to prepare any night of the week, perfect for family dinners or meal prep, and bursting with bold, satisfying flavors. Whether you’re a cheese lover, a chili fanatic, or simply in search of a no-fuss one-dish meal, this Loaded Chili Mac and Cheese Bake is sure to become a new favorite.

Why Cooks Rave About It

This recipe has captured the hearts of home cooks for several reasons. First, it is incredibly versatile—easy to customize with your preferred level of spice or cheese. The combination of chili spices like cumin and chili powder gives the dish a wonderful depth of flavor without overwhelming heat. The kidney beans add a pleasing texture and a boost of protein, making the meal both filling and nutritious. Plus, the baking step creates a beautiful golden crust of cheese that is irresistibly gooey and crispy. It’s also a fantastic way to use pantry staples and ground beef to create something more exciting than a typical pasta dinner. Fans love how this dish tastes just as good the next day, making it a smart choice for leftovers. If you enjoy recipes like the Beefy Mac And Cheese Skillet, this casserole-style comfort food will quickly find a spot in your recipe rotation.

Ingredients at a Glance

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chiles
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions for garnish

Toolbox for This Recipe

• Large pot – to cook the elbow macaroni
• Large skillet – for browning the ground beef and combining ingredients
• Mixing spoon or spatula – to stir and mix the chili base
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise seasoning
• Baking dish (about 9×13 inches) – to bake the assembled mac and cheese
• Oven mitts – for safely handling hot bakeware
• Cheese grater (if shredding your own cheese)

From Start to Finish: Loaded Chili Mac and Cheese Bake

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 7 to 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked through, around 6 to 8 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.

Step 3: Build the Chili Base

To the browned beef, add the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to evenly coat the meat in spices. Pour in the diced tomatoes with green chiles, kidney beans, and beef broth. Simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld and the mixture thickens slightly.

Step 4: Combine Macaroni and Chili Mixture

Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet with the chili mixture. Stir thoroughly to combine every bite with delicious chili flavor.

Step 5: Assemble the Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the chili mac mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.

Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden brown around the edges.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove the bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve hot and enjoy!

Swap Guide

• Ground beef: Substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Kidney beans: Black beans or pinto beans work wonderfully as alternatives.
• Diced tomatoes with green chiles: Use plain diced tomatoes and add a diced jalapeno or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Cheese: Try pepper jack for a spicy twist or a Mexican cheese blend for richness.
• Beef broth: Vegetable broth can be used for a lighter flavor or to suit dietary preferences.

Behind the Recipe

This Loaded Chili Mac and Cheese Bake draws inspiration from the classic Tex-Mex flavors that meld perfectly with American comfort food. The idea was to create a one-pan meal that combines the creamy indulgence of mac and cheese with the robust spices and textures of chili. The recipe balances the savory beef and beans with the smooth cheese sauce and zesty tomatoes, resulting in a dish that is satisfying and hearty without being overly complicated. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a freezer-friendly meal, this bake hits all the marks. And if you’re a fan of bold, layered flavors, you might want to try the Jalapeno Popper Pasta Bake for a similar cheesy delight with a spicy kick.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

To store leftovers, cover the bake tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 20 minutes or microwave individual portions until heated through. Avoid reheating multiple times to preserve texture and flavor.

This dish can also be frozen. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating as directed. The beans and beef maintain their texture beautifully after freezing, and the cheese remains creamy and delicious.

Ask the Chef

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply swap the ground beef for plant-based meat alternatives or add extra beans and vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms. Use vegetable broth to keep the dish flavorful and hearty.

What type of cheese works best for this bake?

Cheddar cheese is classic and melts beautifully, but you can use any cheese blend you prefer. A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack or even a Mexican cheese blend gives a great balance of flavor and meltiness.

Is it possible to make this recipe spicier?

Yes! Increase the amount of chili powder or add cayenne pepper. You could also incorporate fresh chopped jalapenos or top the bake with sliced pickled jalapenos for extra heat, similar to the flavors found in Stadium Chili Cheese Nachos.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Definitely. You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, simply bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if coming straight from the fridge.

Don’t Miss These

• Stadium Chili Cheese Nachos – A perfect appetizer packed with chili and cheese.
• Beefy Mac And Cheese Skillet – Another hearty mac and cheese twist with ground beef.
• Jalapeno Popper Pasta Bake – A spicy, cheesy pasta bake for those who love a little heat.

Make It Tonight

Gather your ingredients and get ready for a delicious culinary adventure. This Loaded Chili Mac and Cheese Bake comes together quickly, especially if you start by boiling the macaroni while browning the meat. The hands-off baking time gives you a chance to relax or prep a simple side salad. Serve with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. It’s the perfect dish to cozy up with after a busy day, delivering warmth, flavor, and satisfaction in every bite. Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!

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