Below-Deck Chili Mac & Cheese Casserole

main-dishcasserolebakedcomfort-foodeasy-quickamerican

Prep
10 min
Cook
35 min
Total
45 min
Servings
6

For the Macaroni and Filling

Ensure the macaroni is drained very well for the best texture.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz Uncooked Macaroni
  • 1 15-oz can Hormel Chili With Beans
  • 1 ½ cups Salsa
  • 1 medium Green Bell Pepper
  • 1 tbsp Chili Powder
  • 1 ½ cups Shredded Marble Jack Cheese

Instructions

  1. Cook the Uncooked Macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the macaroni well and pour it into a large mixing bowl.
  2. To the bowl with the macaroni, add the Hormel Chili With Beans, Salsa, chopped Green Bell Pepper, and Chili Powder. Toss thoroughly until all ingredients are well mixed.
  3. Stir 1 1/2 cups of the Shredded Marble Jack Cheese directly into the mixture.

Prep: 10 min • Cook: 10 min • Wait: No time

Baking and Serving

Ingredients

  • ½ cup Shredded Marble Jack Cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 2 1/2-quart baking dish.
  2. Spoon the entire chili mac mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  3. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of Shredded Marble Jack Cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
  4. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through, the filling is bubbling, and the top layer of cheese is melted and lightly browned.
  5. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

This is a quick and easy recipe requiring minimal effort for satisfying comfort food. To achieve a perfect golden crust, you can turn on the broiler for the last minute of cooking, but watch it closely to prevent the cheese from burning. Use a good quality salsa, or even a homemade variety, to enhance the fresh flavor.