If you’re looking for a quick and hearty meal that’s sure to satisfy, then look no further! This Vegan Chili Mac is not only delicious but can be whipped up in just 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, and the best part? It’s packed with flavors that everyone in the family will love. Whether you’re a long-time vegan or simply trying to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this dish is a must-try!
Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing
This Vegan Chili Mac is a delightful combination of creamy and spicy, making it a hit for both adults and kids alike. The creamy texture of the pasta pairs perfectly with the hearty chili flavors, ensuring every bite is a burst of comfort. Plus, it’s incredibly customizable; you can add your favorite toppings, throw in additional veggies, or adjust the spice level to suit your palate. It’s a dish that brings people together, whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a potluck gathering.
The Ingredient Lineup
To create this lip-smacking Vegan Chili Mac, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 8 oz elbow pasta (gluten-free if desired)
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 15 oz can tomato sauce
- 15 oz can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 1/2 cups sweet corn, cooked (frozen or canned works well)
- 1 Tbsp chili powder (mild recommended)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Optional: fresh baby spinach to stir in at the end
These ingredients come together to create a rich and flavorful meal that’s as nutritious as it is satisfying.
Before You Start: Equipment
Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have the following equipment handy:
- Large pot: For boiling the pasta.
- Large skillet: To sauté the veggies and combine everything.
- Wooden spoon: For stirring and mixing.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient quantities.
- Colander: To drain the pasta.
Having these items ready will make your cooking experience seamless and enjoyable!
Vegan Chili Mac (30 Minute!) — Do This Next
Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to whip up your Vegan Chili Mac in no time.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In a large skillet, heat a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Tomato Sauce and Spices
Pour in the tomato sauce and stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, and smoked paprika. Mix well to combine and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Mix in the Beans and Corn
Add the drained kidney beans and cooked sweet corn to the skillet. Stir everything together and allow it to heat through for another 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Combine with Pasta
Once the chili mixture is heated, add the cooked elbow pasta to the skillet. Stir everything together, ensuring that the pasta is fully coated with the chili sauce. If you’re using spinach, fold it in at this stage until just wilted.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Taste your Vegan Chili Mac and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve it warm, garnished with your favorite toppings. Enjoy this comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
Year-Round Variations
This Vegan Chili Mac is versatile, allowing for many variations. Here are a few ideas to keep things exciting:
- Add diced bell peppers or zucchini for extra veggies.
- Top with avocado slices or a dollop of vegan sour cream for creaminess.
- Stir in some nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
- For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own!
What I Learned Testing
While testing this Vegan Chili Mac, I discovered a few tips that can elevate the dish even further:
- Don’t skip sautéing the onions and garlic; it adds a depth of flavor.
- Using mild chili powder allows everyone to enjoy the dish without it being too spicy.
- Adding spinach at the end keeps it vibrant and packed with nutrients.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
These insights will help you perfect your Vegan Chili Mac!
Leftovers & Meal Prep
This dish is great for meal prep! Here are some tips for storing and reheating:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to loosen it up if necessary.
- For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Making a big batch means you’ll have delicious meals ready to go throughout the week!
Vegan Chili Mac (30 Minute!) FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the elbow pasta with any pasta shape you prefer, including gluten-free options.
How can I make this dish spicier?
For a spicier Vegan Chili Mac, consider adding more chili powder or incorporating fresh jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! This dish is very adaptable. You can add any of your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or even diced carrots.
What can I serve with Vegan Chili Mac?
Pair it with a side salad, crusty bread, or some delicious vegan cornbread for a complete meal!
Explore More
If you love this Vegan Chili Mac, you might enjoy these other delicious recipes:
Make It Tonight
There you have it! This Vegan Chili Mac is not only quick and easy to make but also incredibly satisfying and flavorful. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends and family. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking! You won’t regret trying this delightful dish that will surely become a staple in your home. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
Vegan Chili Mac (30 Minute!)
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow pasta (gluten-free if desired)
- 1 yellow onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 15 oz can tomato sauce
- 15 oz can kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 1/2 cups sweet corn (cooked)
- 1 Tbsp chili powder (mild recommended)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- fresh baby spinach (optional, to stir in at the end)
Instructions
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.
- In a large skillet, heat a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the tomato sauce and stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, and smoked paprika. Mix well to combine and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the drained kidney beans and cooked sweet corn to the skillet. Stir everything together and allow it to heat through for another 2-3 minutes.
- Once the chili mixture is heated, add the cooked elbow pasta to the skillet. Stir everything together, ensuring that the pasta is fully coated with the chili sauce. If you’re using spinach, fold it in at this stage until just wilted.
- Taste your Vegan Chili Mac and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve it warm, garnished with your favorite toppings. Enjoy this comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Large Skillet
- Wooden Spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Colander
Notes
- Don’t skip sautéing the onions and garlic; it adds a depth of flavor.
- Using mild chili powder allows everyone to enjoy the dish without it being too spicy.
- Adding spinach at the end keeps it vibrant and packed with nutrients.
