If you’re craving a warm, comforting meal that’s packed with flavor yet fits perfectly into a gluten-free and vegetarian lifestyle, this Chilli Mac Instant Pot recipe is your new best friend. Combining the hearty goodness of macaroni with the bold, spicy kick of chili, this dish is both satisfying and easy to whip up in your Instant Pot.
Whether you’re a busy professional, a student, or simply someone who loves quick and nutritious meals, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.
What makes this version special is its focus on wholesome, plant-based ingredients that cater to gluten-free needs without compromising on taste or texture. Rich in protein, fiber, and vibrant spices, it’s a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for chilly evenings or meal prep.
Plus, the Instant Pot does the hard work for you, making it an effortless way to enjoy a classic comfort food with a healthy twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chilli Mac recipe is a delightful fusion of two beloved comfort foods, tailored to fit vegetarian and gluten-free diets seamlessly. The Instant Pot speeds up cooking time while enhancing the flavors as all ingredients meld together beautifully under pressure.
It’s a nourishing dish that’s both creamy and spicy, with a perfect balance of textures from tender pasta and hearty beans.
You’ll appreciate how easy it is to customize with your favorite veggies or spice levels, making it a versatile meal for any occasion. Plus, it’s naturally packed with plant-based protein and fiber, promoting satiety and digestive health.
Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers on flavor, nutrition, and convenience.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
- 1 cup gluten-free elbow macaroni
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 cup vegetable broth (gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or dairy-free cheese alternative)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Equipment
- Instant Pot or electric pressure cooker
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Colander (for rinsing beans and draining pasta if needed)
Instructions
- Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add the olive oil and let it heat up for a minute.
- Add chopped onion and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened, stirring occasionally.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices and enhance their flavor.
- Add the tomato paste and stir well to combine with the veggies and spices.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, black beans, and gluten-free macaroni. Give everything a good stir to distribute ingredients evenly.
- Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 4 minutes.
- Once cooking is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then carefully quick release any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid and stir the mixture. If it looks too thick, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Tips & Variations
For a vegan version, substitute the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables such as corn, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra texture and nutrition. If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the cayenne pepper or add a diced jalapeño during the sauté step.
To make this recipe nut-free and allergy-friendly, always check that your vegetable broth and spices are certified gluten-free and free from cross-contamination. For a creamier texture, stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt after cooking (choose dairy-free if vegan).
If you don’t have gluten-free elbow macaroni, feel free to use other gluten-free pasta shapes like penne or shells. Just keep the cooking time the same to avoid overcooking.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 350 kcal |
Protein | 15 g |
Carbohydrates | 50 g |
Dietary Fiber | 10 g |
Fat | 7 g |
Saturated Fat | 3 g |
Sodium | 600 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This Chilli Mac is fantastic on its own as a hearty, all-in-one meal. For a complete dinner, serve it alongside a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
For added texture and flavor, sprinkle some crushed gluten-free tortilla chips or roasted pepitas on top before serving. You can also add a dollop of guacamole or sour cream to cool down the spice and add creaminess.
Looking for more comforting vegetarian dishes? Try our Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe or for a protein-rich alternative, check out the Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe.
Conclusion
This Instant Pot Chilli Mac recipe is a flavorful, nutritious, and convenient dish that perfectly suits gluten-free and vegetarian diets. With a rich blend of spices, protein-packed beans, and tender gluten-free pasta, it’s a wholesome meal that satisfies those comfort food cravings without compromising on health.
Thanks to the Instant Pot, this recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a fuss-free dinner. The versatility allows you to tweak the spice levels and veggies, ensuring everyone at the table will enjoy it.
Give this recipe a try and add a little heat and heartiness to your meal rotation!
For more delicious and easy-to-make recipes, don’t miss our Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe or indulge your sweet tooth with the Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe.
📖 Recipe Card: Chilli Mac Instant Pot Gluten Free Vegetarian
Description: A hearty and flavorful gluten-free vegetarian chili mac made quickly in the Instant Pot. Packed with beans, vegetables, and gluten-free pasta for a comforting meal.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT25M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup gluten-free elbow macaroni
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Set Instant Pot to sauté and heat olive oil.
- Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until softened.
- Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; stir for 1 minute.
- Add macaroni, black beans, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth; stir to combine.
- Seal lid and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.
- Quick release pressure, open lid and stir well.
- If desired, sprinkle cheese on top and let melt before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 350 kcal | Protein: 15 g | Fat: 6 g | Carbs: 55 g
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