Vegetarian Chili Mac and Cheese Recipe for Cozy Dinners

Looking for a comforting, hearty meal that satisfies your cravings without any meat? This Vegetarian Chili Mac and Cheese recipe is exactly what you need.

Packed with rich, cheesy goodness and a vibrant chili twist, it’s the perfect dish to warm you up on chilly evenings or to impress friends and family at your next gathering. Combining the best of two comfort classics—chili and mac and cheese—this recipe offers a delightful balance of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors all in one bowl.

Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also loaded with vegetables and plant-based protein, making it a nutritious choice for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Plus, it’s simple to prepare and can be easily customized to your taste preferences.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just looking to try something new, this chili mac and cheese will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Vegetarian Chili Mac and Cheese is a one-pot wonder that brings together comfort food favorites with a healthy twist. Here’s why it stands out:

• Rich and creamy: The cheese sauce is velvety smooth, coating every noodle perfectly.
• Hearty and filling: Loaded with beans, vegetables, and pasta, it’s a satisfying meal on its own.
• Flavor-packed: A blend of chili spices and fresh ingredients delivers a bold, zesty taste.
• Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
• Vegetarian-friendly: No meat needed, and naturally packed with plant-based protein.
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or spices to suit your palate.

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any small pasta shape)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or a plant-based alternative)
• 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or vegan margarine)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or saucepan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander
• Whisk
• Knife and cutting board

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add bell pepper and corn: Toss in the diced red bell pepper and corn kernels. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender.
4. Mix in beans and tomatoes: Add the drained black beans and canned diced tomatoes (with juices) to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Season the chili: Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes over low heat to allow flavors to meld.
6. Prepare the cheese sauce: In a separate small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to whisk until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
7. Add cheese: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
8. Combine pasta and chili: Add the cooked pasta to the chili mixture and stir to combine evenly.
9. Mix in cheese sauce: Pour the cheese sauce over the chili pasta mixture and stir gently until everything is well coated.
10. Serve: Spoon the chili mac and cheese into bowls, garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, and enjoy immediately.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra boost of flavor, try adding a splash of hot sauce or a handful of diced jalapeños to the chili mixture.”

• Make it vegan: Use vegan cheese and plant-based milk, and substitute butter with vegan margarine.
• Load up on veggies: Add diced zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for more color and nutrition.
• Spice it up: Increase cayenne pepper or add chipotle powder for a smoky heat.
• Use different beans: Pinto, kidney, or chickpeas work wonderfully in this recipe.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the cheese sauce.
• Batch cooking: This recipe stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheats beautifully.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian chili mac and cheese pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. For a fun twist, serve it with a dollop of sour cream or vegan yogurt and some sliced avocado on top.

Cornbread or garlic bread on the side also complements this dish beautifully, making it a complete and satisfying meal.

If you enjoy this recipe, you might also love exploring Vegetarian Tex Mex Recipes for Easy Weeknight Dinners or try a comforting Chili Recipe Slow Cooker Vegetarian: Easy & Hearty Meal for your next meal.

For a delicious homemade bread to accompany your dinner, check out the Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves.

Conclusion

This Vegetarian Chili Mac and Cheese is a true crowd-pleaser that blends comfort food with wholesome ingredients. It’s the perfect recipe for anyone craving a hearty, cheesy, and flavorful meal without the need for meat.

The creamy cheese sauce combined with the spicy chili and tender pasta creates a delightful texture and taste that will keep you coming back for more.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is straightforward, adaptable, and packed with nutrition. It’s a great way to introduce more vegetables and plant-based protein into your diet while satisfying those classic comfort food cravings.

Give it a try tonight, and enjoy a nourishing, tasty bowl of warmth that’s sure to brighten your day!

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