Life's too short for complicated recipes Let's make it deliciously easy together
🍲

Loading...

Oven Baked 3-Ingredients Chili Mac Casserole

4.8/5
Oven Baked 3-Ingredients Chili Mac Casserole
⏱️
60min Time
👥
6 servings Servings
🟢
Easy Difficulty
💰
Moderate Cost
🔥
425 kcal Calories

Who knew three ingredients could lead to such a hearty culinary adventure? Get ready to impress your taste buds with the Oven Baked 3-Ingredients Chili Mac Casserole!


Ingredients

6
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 1 can (15 oz) chili
  • 2 cups shredded cheese

Instructions

1

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2

In a large pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain.

3

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the chili and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Mix until well combined.

4

Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.

5

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Kitchen Tools

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • 9x13 inch baking dish

Chef's Tips

Feel free to spice up your chili with additional seasonings.

For a healthier version, use whole grain pasta.

🔧 Troubleshooting Tips

If the cheese isn't melting properly, increase oven temperature slightly and cover with foil to retain moisture.
If it’s too dry, adding a splash of water or broth before baking can help.

🔄 Recipe Variations

Add cooked ground beef or turkey for added protein.
Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra nutrients.

🥗 Healthy Alternatives

Use turkey or chicken chili for a leaner option.
Opt for a low-fat cheese to reduce calories.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Nutrition Facts

425
Calories
28g
Protein
42g
Carbs
16g
Fat

🥗 Suitable Diets

Vegetarian
Can be made gluten-free

🎨 Presentation Ideas

Chopped green onions make a great garnish.
A sprinkle of cilantro adds a fresh flavor.

📦 Storage & Conservation

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
You can freeze the casserole before baking for up to a month.

♻️ Leftover Ideas

Use leftovers as a filling for baked potatoes.
Make chili mac-stuffed peppers with any remaining casserole.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the macaroni can make it mushy; ensure it's al dente.
Don't skip on the cheese—it's essential for the flavor and creaminess.

FAQ

Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, gluten-free pasta works perfectly in this recipe.

How can I make this spicier?

You can add jalapeños or use spicy chili beans for extra heat.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Absolutely! It's a hit with kids for its cheesy goodness.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix the ingredients and store them in the fridge before baking.

What can I add for extra flavor?

Try adding diced onions and garlic to the chili mix.

How long do leftovers last?

Leftovers can be kept in the fridge for 3 days.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, you can use dairy-free cheese alternatives.

Reviews

Sarah M
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Feb 20, 2026
Super easy and delicious! My kids loved it.
John D
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Feb 2, 2026
Great recipe, but I added some spices for extra flavor.
Emily R
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Feb 10, 2026
Perfect for busy weeknights. Will make again!
Michael T
⭐⭐⭐☆☆
Feb 14, 2026
It was okay, a bit bland for my taste.
Amy L
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Feb 9, 2026
A perfect comfort food! I'll be making this regularly.
Chris W
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Feb 11, 2026
So cheesy and satisfying! Can't believe it's so simple.
Jessica B
⭐⭐☆☆☆
Feb 24, 2026
Not my favorite. I prefer more complex flavors.
David H
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Feb 19, 2026
Wow! Delicious and filling. Thanks for the recipe!
Laura N
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Feb 18, 2026
A hit at our family dinner, everyone enjoyed it!
Kevin C
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Feb 20, 2026
I made it gluten-free and it turned out great!
Nina K
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Jan 28, 2026
Easy to customize with leftover veggies.
Jacob S
⭐⭐⭐☆☆
Feb 17, 2026
Good, but I think it needed a bit more seasoning.
Olivia A
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Feb 4, 2026
I can't believe it only needed three ingredients!
Ezra J
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Jan 28, 2026
I used turkey chili, worked great and tasted wonderful.
Sophie P
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Feb 6, 2026
Complete family favorite! Highly recommend.
Liam G
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Feb 3, 2026
Simple and delicious. Perfect for potlucks!
×