Go Back
Delicious Chili Mac and Cheese Bake recipe photo
Print Recipe Save it for later

Chili Mac and Cheese Bake

This Chili Mac and Cheese Bake is a hearty, cheesy, and comforting casserole perfect for easy weeknight dinners or cozy family meals.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 packet chili seasoning mix
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup chopped green onion for garnish

Instructions

Cooking Chili Mac and Cheese Bake: The Process

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 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.
  • 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!

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Medium saucepan or pot
  • 9x13 inch Baking Dish
  • Mixing spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Notes

  • Prepare the chili mixture and pasta up to two days in advance for quick weeknight assembly.
  • Freeze the assembled bake (without green onion garnish) for convenient future meals; thaw overnight before baking.
  • Customize the recipe by swapping cheeses, adding vegetables, or adjusting the spice level to your preference.