Chili-Con Casserole
A hearty, cheesy casserole combining ground beef, chili flavors, and pasta, perfect for a satisfying family dinner or casual gathering with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and diced onion in a skillet.
- Add chili seasoning, tomato soup, and water to the skillet and stir well.
- Add the drained corn to the mixture and cook for about 10 minutes.
- Combine the cooked noodles and Velveeta cheese cubes into the chili mixture and stir until cheese is melted and well incorporated.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the chili mixture. If you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the lean ground beef. You can also use a different cheese, such as cheddar, if Velveeta isn't available. This dish is versatile and can be adjusted to fit various taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili-con casserole hot, garnished with chopped green onions or sour cream for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a side of cornbread or a fresh garden salad. For a more complete meal, consider serving it alongside classic American recipes like Scalloped Potatoes And Hamburger or Barbecue Burgers(Sloppy Joes).
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chili-con casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the microwave for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, or bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can add a splash of water to maintain moisture during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili-Con Casserole contains roughly 928 calories, with 30g protein, 116g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (60% of the Daily Value), iron (37% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1966mg per serving (85% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chili mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before combining it with the noodles and cheese. Just reheat the chili mixture before adding the noodles and cheese to ensure even melting.
What can I use instead of tomato soup?
If you don't have tomato soup, you can use crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes with some added tomato paste for a thicker consistency. Adjust the seasoning to taste, as the flavor may vary with these substitutions.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with a mix of beans such as black beans and kidney beans, along with diced vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. Use vegetable broth instead of water and ensure the cheese is vegetarian-friendly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).