One Pot Vegetarian Chili Mac
Try this One Pot Vegetarian Chili Mac recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this One Pot Vegetarian Chili Mac recipe, or contribute your own.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 green onions chopped
- 1 small onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 15 ounce can kidney beans rinsed and drained
- 2 medium carrots
- 1 bell pepper any color
- 1 tablespoon chili powder*
- 14.5 ounce can hunt's diced tomatoes
- 10 ounce can ro*tel diced tomatoes & green chilies*
- 8 ounces elbow pasta (i used whole wheat)
- 15 ounce can black beans rinsed and drained
- 2 cups grated cheddar and/or monterey jack cheese (i used
- Carbohydrate 5.54835722222222 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.939009444685668 g
- Fiber 1.57322222222222 g
- Protein 0.83961 g
- Saturated Fat 0.138967777811086 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (167g)
- Sodium 32.6050277804539 mg
- Sugar 3.975135 g
- Trans Fat 0.0881971111176434 g
- Calories 31 calories
Step-by-step
- Finely chop the onion.
- Chop the bell pepper and carrots into small pieces.
- Heat the oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
- Add the onion, bell pepper, and carrots and cook until softened, stirring occasionally, about 6 minutes.
- Meanwhile, mince the garlic and combine the chili powder, cumin, and salt in a small dish.
- Add the garlic, chili powder, cumin, and salt to the pan with the vegetables and cook, stirring, for 30 seconds.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, RO*TEL, pasta, beans, and water.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat to a low simmer, cover, and cook, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, about 12-15 minutes.
- Remove the pan from the heat and stir in most of the cheese, reserving a little for sprinkling on top.
- Sprinkle on the remaining cheese and chopped green onions.
- Serve.
One Pot Vegetarian Chili Mac: A Weeknight Wonder
As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Dinner needs to be quick, easy, and ideally, something the whole family will enjoy. That's where this One Pot Vegetarian Chili Mac comes in. It's a lifesaver on those hectic weeknights when I'm juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and the never-ending cycle of laundry. This recipe isn't just convenient; it's also incredibly flavorful and surprisingly nutritious. The hearty beans, vibrant vegetables, and cheesy goodness make it a satisfying meal that everyone can appreciate, even the picky eaters in my house.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Everything cooks together in one pot, minimizing cleanup and maximizing efficiency. I love that I can throw in whatever vegetables I have on hand – bell peppers, carrots, onions – it all works beautifully. And don't even get me started on the cheese! The melty, cheesy goodness takes this chili mac to the next level. I often use a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack, but feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. Sometimes, if I'm feeling adventurous, I'll even add a sprinkle of pepper jack for a little kick.
This recipe has become a staple in our household. It’s versatile enough to serve as a weeknight dinner, but also impressive enough for a casual get-together with friends. The leftovers are fantastic too, making it perfect for packed lunches or a quick and easy meal the next day. I often double the recipe on busy weekends so I have plenty of leftovers for the week ahead. Trust me on this one; this One Pot Vegetarian Chili Mac is a true game-changer for busy families. It's a delicious, healthy, and convenient meal that the whole family will adore. From the simple preparation to the satisfying result, this recipe is a testament to the power of simple cooking and the joy of a delicious, home-cooked meal.
Beyond the Recipe: The beauty of this dish extends beyond its ease and deliciousness. It’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, especially for picky eaters. The vibrant colors of the bell peppers and carrots are visually appealing, making it more enticing for kids (and adults!). It's also a fantastic way to use up leftover vegetables you might have in the fridge. Think of it as a blank canvas – you can customize it to your liking! Add some black beans for extra protein, or spice it up with some jalapenos if you like a little heat. The possibilities are endless!
Tips and Variations: For a spicier chili mac, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce. If you're short on time, you can use pre-chopped vegetables to speed up the preparation process. For a creamier chili mac, stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end. And if you're looking for a gluten-free option, simply substitute gluten-free pasta for regular elbow macaroni.
Serving Suggestions: Serve your One Pot Vegetarian Chili Mac with a side salad for a complete and balanced meal. A crusty bread or cornbread is also a delicious accompaniment to soak up all that delicious cheesy sauce. And let's not forget the importance of a good beverage to complement this hearty dish. A crisp, refreshing iced tea or a light-bodied red wine would be perfect pairings.
In conclusion, this One Pot Vegetarian Chili Mac recipe is a testament to the power of simple, flavorful cooking. It’s a convenient, healthy, and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. So next time you're looking for a quick and satisfying dinner, give this recipe a try. You won't be disappointed!
