Coney Chili Mac Casserole

Calling all busy moms out there! This Coney Chili Mac Casserole is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a time-saver. A delicious combination of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) chili
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

• 1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
• 2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until beef is browned and onion is tender. Drain excess fat.
• 3. Stir in chili, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
• 4. Stir in elbow macaroni and 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
• 5. Transfer mixture to a greased casserole dish and top with remaining cheese.
• 6. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Popular questions:

• Can I substitute the ground beef with ground turkey?

Yes, you can definitely substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner option.

• Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties to suit your taste preferences.

• Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Adding vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or beans can enhance the flavor and nutritional content of this dish.

• Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.

Helpful tips:

• 1. Try adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top before serving for added flavor.
• 2. For a spicy kick, add some chopped jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce to the casserole mixture.
• 3. Consider using whole wheat macaroni for a healthier twist on this classic dish.

Expert Secrets:

• 1. To prevent the cheese from burning on top, loosely tent the foil over the casserole during the initial baking time.
• 2. For a deeper flavor profile, sauté the onions and garlic until caramelized before adding the ground beef.
• 3. Experiment with different types of canned chili to find your favorite flavor combination for this recipe.