My busy neighbor dropped this off when I was sick, and it is pure comfort food. Can’t believe it’s just 3 ingredients.
This Oven-Baked 3-Ingredient Chili Mac Casserole is a quick and comforting meal that combines the bold, savory flavor of beef chili with the classic appeal of mac and cheese. Slightly undercooking the macaroni before baking lets it finish in the oven, soaking up all the rich chili flavors. The result is a hearty, well-blended dish topped with a golden, crispy cheddar layer that adds the perfect contrast to the soft pasta.
Oven-Baked 3-Ingredient Chili Mac Casserole
Ingredients:
- 4 cups beef chili (canned or leftover)
- 12 oz dry elbow macaroni
- 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
Directions
Step 1: Par-cook the pasta
Preheat oven to 375°F. Boil the macaroni in salted water for slightly less time than the package নির্দেশ—about 1–2 minutes under al dente. This helps prevent it from becoming too soft during baking.
Step 2: Combine ingredients
Drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Stir in the chili and 2 cups of shredded cheddar until everything is evenly mixed and the cheese starts to melt.
Tip: If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of water or beef broth to loosen it slightly. The pasta will continue absorbing liquid in the oven.
Step 3: Assemble
Transfer the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese over the top.
Step 4: Bake
Cover loosely with foil (avoid touching the cheese) and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
Step 5: Let it rest
Remove from the oven and allow it to sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps everything set and makes it easier to scoop.
Enjoy a simple, filling dish that’s perfect for busy days or cozy nights!
