When you need a cozy dinner that’s warm, filling, and packed with comforting flavor, this Coney Chili Mac Casserole always hits the spot. Tender macaroni, rich seasoned beef, hearty beans, and plenty of melted cheddar cheese come together in one easy baked casserole that tastes like classic chili and macaroni combined into the ultimate comfort meal.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you’re craving something cheesy and satisfying. It’s simple to make, incredibly hearty, and the leftovers taste even better the next day.
Flavor & Texture Highlights
This casserole is rich, savory, cheesy, and packed with smoky chili flavor. The tender macaroni soaks up the seasoned tomato sauce while the melted cheddar cheese creates a creamy, bubbly topping that makes every bite comforting and satisfying.
Jump to Section
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- What You’ll Need
- How to Make It
- Expert Tips
- Storage & Reheating
- What to Serve With
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Recipe
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy one-pan style comfort food dinner
- Loaded with rich chili flavor and melted cheese
- Perfect family-friendly casserole recipe
- Budget-friendly and filling meal
- Great for meal prep and leftovers
- Ready in about 35 minutes
What You’ll Need to Make This Recipe
Ground beef creates the rich savory base that gives this casserole its hearty texture and flavor.
Onion, garlic, tomato paste, and spices build a warm smoky chili flavor that tastes comforting and satisfying.
Chili beans add extra heartiness while helping make the casserole more filling and flavorful.
Elbow macaroni holds onto the rich chili sauce beautifully and keeps the dish cozy and comforting.
Sharp cheddar cheese melts over the top into a bubbly golden layer that makes this casserole irresistible.
Exact ingredient measurements can be found in the recipe card below.
How to Make Coney Chili Mac Casserole Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Beef and Onion
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion together until the beef is fully browned and the onion becomes soft and tender.
Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Tomato Paste
Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste.
Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant and well combined.
Step 4: Build the Chili Mixture
Add the drained beans, tomato sauce, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Let the mixture simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes so the flavors can blend together.
Step 5: Stir in the Macaroni
Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the skillet.
Stir until the pasta is fully coated in the rich chili mixture.
Step 6: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the chili mac mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top.
Step 7: Bake Until Bubbly
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and lightly golden around the edges.
The warm cheesy aroma filling the kitchen is absolutely irresistible.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped green onions over the top if desired.
Serve hot while the cheese is perfectly melted and creamy.
Expert Tips
- Cook the pasta just until al dente so it doesn’t become too soft while baking.
- Use sharp cheddar for the boldest cheesy flavor.
- Add jalapeños or hot sauce if you enjoy extra heat.
- A sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips on top adds great crunch.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving for easier slicing.
How to Store and Reheat It
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
This casserole also freezes very well for future meals.
What to Serve With
This hearty casserole pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, cornbread, green salad, roasted vegetables, or coleslaw.
A dollop of sour cream on top is also delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes. Shells, rotini, or penne all work nicely in this casserole.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes. Ground turkey or chicken are both great lighter options.
How do I make it spicier?
Add cayenne pepper, diced jalapeños, or your favorite hot sauce.
Coney Chili Mac Casserole
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: Approximately 470 kcal per serving
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 (15 oz) can chili beans or kidney beans, drained
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, cooked and drained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Cook ground beef and onion in a skillet until browned.
- Drain excess grease.
- Add garlic and tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in beans, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add cooked macaroni and stir until coated.
- Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until bubbly.
- Garnish with green onions and serve hot.
Notes
For extra flavor, top with sour cream, sliced jalapeños, or crushed tortilla chips before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Coney Chili Mac Casserole is everything comfort food should be — cheesy, hearty, warm, and incredibly satisfying. Between the rich chili flavors, tender pasta, and bubbling cheddar cheese, it’s the kind of easy family dinner everyone looks forward to. Perfect for cozy nights, busy weeknights, or feeding a hungry crowd.