Coney Chili Mac Casserole

A Comfort Food Classic with a Coney Island Twist

Craving something hearty, cheesy, and packed with nostalgic flavor? Look no further than this Coney Chili Mac Casserole — a satisfying, stick-to-your-ribs dish that combines all the goodness of chili dogs, mac and cheese, and baked casseroles into one mouthwatering meal. It’s an easy weeknight winner that’s just as perfect for potlucks, tailgates, or cozy Sunday suppers.

Imagine tender elbow macaroni swimming in a rich, chili-spiced tomato beef sauce, all blanketed under melted cheddar and topped with crispy onions or buttery cracker crumbs. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table fast — and usually ends in second helpings.

💡 Why This Recipe Works

Fast & family-friendly – Uses everyday pantry staples and comes together in under an hour.

A mash-up of favorites – Combines classic chili, Coney dog toppings, and mac & cheese.

Customizable toppings – Crushed crackers or crispy fried onions add crunch and flair.

Perfect leftovers – Tastes even better the next day and reheats like a dream.

📝 Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this comfort-food classic:

1 lb ground beef 🥩 – Ground chuck or lean beef both work great.

2 cups cooked elbow macaroni 🍝 – Use short pasta like elbows, shells, or rotini.

1 cup tomato sauce 🍅 – Gives the chili base a rich, smooth texture.

1/2 cup beef broth 🥣 – Adds savory depth and keeps the dish moist.

1 tablespoon mustard 🌭 – Yellow mustard gives it that signature Coney dog zip.

1 tablespoon chili powder 🌶️ – Classic chili seasoning brings bold flavor.

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese 🧀 – Melty, gooey cheddar brings it all together.

Optional toppings: Crushed butter crackers or crispy fried onions for crunch 🚠

👨‍🍳 How To Make Coney Chili Mac Casserole

This casserole is quick to prep and comes together with minimal fuss:

1. Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Grease a medium casserole dish or 8×8 baking dish with nonstick spray or a light coating of butter.

2. Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and crumbled (about 6–8 minutes).

Drain excess grease if necessary.

3. Add Sauce & Seasonings

Stir in the tomato sauce, beef broth, mustard, and chili powder.

Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and flavors meld.

Optional add-ins: diced onion, minced garlic, or a few dashes of hot sauce if you like extra kick.

4. Combine with Macaroni

Stir in the cooked elbow macaroni until well coated with the chili mixture.

5. Layer and Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.

Add crushed crackers or crispy fried onions if using for a golden, crunchy topping.

6. Bake

Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly with golden edges.

🧊 Leftovers & Storage

This casserole keeps beautifully in the fridge and can be reheated for easy lunches or next-day dinners:

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F or microwave individual portions.

Freeze: Freeze before baking (without toppings) for up to 2 months. Add cheese and toppings before baking from frozen or thawed.

🍴 Serving Suggestions

This casserole is a full meal on its own, but you can round it out with:

A crisp green salad with ranch or vinaigrette

Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli

Cornbread muffins or garlic toast

For a diner-style twist, serve it with pickle slices, diced raw onions, or a drizzle of yellow mustard over the top!

🔄 Variations & Substitutions

Make this casserole your own with these fun tweaks:

Make it spicy: Add jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the meat mixture.

Cheese it up: Try a mix of Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or sharp cheddar.

Go Tex-Mex: Stir in some black beans and corn, and top with crushed tortilla chips.

Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter version.

Mac & Cheese version: Mix a cheese sauce into the pasta for extra creaminess before baking.

🏆 bigzazoo’s Casserole Tip

For that authentic “Coney dog” flavor, don’t skip the mustard and chili powder—they really deliver that ballpark taste in casserole form. A few sweet pickle chips on the side are the perfect throwback touch, too.

❤️ Final Thoughts

Coney Chili Mac Casserole is the ultimate fusion of bold flavors and cozy comfort. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out, brings back memories of state fairs and backyard BBQs, and makes everyone at the table smile. Even better? It’s easy to make, easy to love, and perfect for busy families or hungry crowds.

So next time you’re craving something warm, cheesy, and wonderfully nostalgic—skip the drive-thru and make this casserole instead. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you.

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