Savory Vegetarian Chili Mac in Just 30 Minutes!

Prepare a delicious Vegetarian Chili Mac that combines hearty chili and creamy mac and cheese in just 30 minutes.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings: 4 bowls

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Base

1 tablespoon Olive Oil Adds healthy fats and helps sauté vegetables.
1 cup Chopped Onion Provides flavor and aroma.
1 cup Bell Pepper Any color can be used; omit for a simpler dish.
2 medium Carrots Can substitute with zucchini or celery.
2 cloves Garlic (minced) Fresh is preferable; can use garlic powder in a pinch.

For the Spice Blend

2 tablespoons Chili Powder Adjust amount for desired heat.
1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Can replace with coriander or omit if unavailable.
1 teaspoon Salt Use kosher or table salt interchangeably.

For the Sauce

1 can Diced Tomatoes Use fire-roasted for an additional smoky taste.
1 can Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies Substitute with plain diced tomatoes for less heat.

For the Pasta & Protein

2 cups Elbow Macaroni Pasta Can substitute with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
1 can Black Beans (canned) Can replace with pinto beans or omit for a lighter dish.
1 can Red Kidney Beans (canned) Can use other beans or omit as preferred.
2 cups Water Can use vegetable broth for more flavor.

For the Creamy Finish

1.5 cups Shredded Cheese Use cheddar, Monterey jack, mozzarella, or any combination.

Equipment

large skillet or pot

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions for Vegetarian Chili Mac

Heat the Oil: Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
Sauté the Vegetables: Add 1 chopped onion, 1 diced bell pepper, and 2 medium carrots (diced) to the pan. Sauté for about 6 minutes.
Spice it Up: Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and a pinch of salt.
Build the Sauce: Add 1 can of diced tomatoes, 1 can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, 2 cups of elbow macaroni pasta, 1 can of black beans, 1 can of red kidney beans, and 2 cups of water or vegetable broth.
Simmer Perfectly: Increase the heat to medium-high and bring to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat and cook for about 12-15 minutes.
Cheese It Up: Stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese, reserving some for serving.
Serve hot: Spoon the Vegetarian Chili Mac into bowls and sprinkle with remaining cheese.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 12gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Try serving alongside cornbread for a complete feast.

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