Pin It A comforting fusion of creamy macaroni and cheese, hearty chili, and classic hot dog flavors is perfect for a crowd-pleasing twist on two American favorites.
I first tried this recipe for a family game night and it instantly became a favorite for adults and kids alike. The playful mix of chili and cheese sauce sparked memories of backyard cookouts from my childhood.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 400 g (14 oz) elbow macaroni
- Cheese Sauce: 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, 480 ml (2 cups) whole milk, 200 g (2 cups) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 100 g (1 cup) shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Chili: 225 g (1/2 lb) ground beef, 1/2 medium onion finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic minced, 1 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp ground cumin, 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional), 240 ml (1 cup) canned diced tomatoes, 120 ml (1/2 cup) canned kidney beans drained and rinsed, salt and pepper to taste
- Hot Dogs: 4 classic hot dogs sliced into 1 cm (1/2 inch) pieces
- Toppings (optional): 2 green onions thinly sliced, jalapeño slices, extra shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Lightly grease a 2 liter (2 quart) baking dish.
- Cook Macaroni:
- Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Chili:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Add onion and cook until softened about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic tomato paste chili powder cumin and cayenne. Cook for 1 minute.
- Simmer Chili:
- Add diced tomatoes and kidney beans. Simmer for 5 7 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.
- Make Cheese Sauce:
- In a saucepan melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk. Simmer until thickened about 3 minutes.
- Add Cheese:
- Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella until melted and smooth. Season with salt pepper and paprika.
- Combine Mix:
- Combine cooked macaroni cheese sauce chili and sliced hot dogs in a large bowl. Mix well.
- Assemble Dish:
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top with extra cheese if desired.
- Bake:
- Bake for 15 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Garnish & Serve:
- Garnish with green onions and jalapeños before serving.
Pin It My family loves making this together on cool weekends and everyone takes turns adding their favorite toppings, making it a fun hands on meal for all ages.
Required Tools
Large pot, skillet, saucepan, baking dish, whisk, mixing bowl
Allergen Information
Contains milk cheese (dairy), wheat (gluten), hot dogs (may contain soy wheat and other allergens, check labels), beans (legumes). Always check processed ingredients for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 650, Total Fat 32 g, Carbohydrates 58 g, Protein 32 g
Pin It This dish is a nostalgic treat that brings together all the best comfort flavors. Serve hot and watch it disappear quickly at any gathering!
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of pasta is best for this dish?
Elbow macaroni is ideal as it holds the cheese sauce and chili well, creating a creamy texture throughout.
- → Can I make this dish spicier?
Yes, adding extra cayenne pepper or using spicy hot dogs enhances the heat without overpowering the flavors.
- → How do I ensure the cheese sauce is smooth?
Gradually whisk milk into the butter and flour roux while cooking to avoid lumps and achieve a creamy consistency.
- → What toppings complement this dish?
Green onions, jalapeño slices, and extra shredded cheddar add freshness and a slight kick to balance the rich flavors.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Assemble the components and refrigerate before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when ready to serve.