One-Pot Vegan Chili Mac recipe

My family and I are always on the lookout for meals that are both delicious and easy to prepare, especially on busy weeknights. Let me tell you, this One-Pot Vegan Chili Mac has become an absolute staple in our rotation. From the moment the aroma of simmering spices fills the kitchen, to the satisfyingly cheesy, comforting bite, this dish is a winner on every level. Even my pickiest eater, who usually shies away from anything “too healthy,” devours a bowl (or two!) of this hearty chili mac. What I love most is the simplicity – everything cooks together in one pot, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor. If you’re craving a warm, flavorful, and incredibly easy vegan meal that the whole family will adore, look no further. This One-Pot Vegan Chili Mac is about to become your new go-to recipe!

Ingredients: Simple, Wholesome Goodness

This recipe utilizes pantry staples and fresh ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying meal. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chili Base:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing, can substitute with water or vegetable broth for oil-free)
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained (fresh or frozen corn can also be used, about 1.5 cups)
• 1 cup vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicier chili)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the “Mac” and Cheesy Element:

• 1 pound elbow macaroni (or other short pasta shape, gluten-free options work well)
• 1 (14-ounce) can full-fat coconut milk (or other plant-based milk, full-fat recommended for creaminess)
• 1 cup nutritional yeast
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon turmeric (for color and subtle flavor)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional Toppings: Fresh cilantro, chopped green onions, avocado, vegan sour cream, vegan cheese shreds

Instructions: One Pot, Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor

This One-Pot Vegan Chili Mac is incredibly easy to make. Follow these simple steps for a delicious and satisfying meal:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil (or water/broth) in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until softened and slightly translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. This step builds the flavor base of your chili mac.
2. Build the Chili Base: Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), kidney beans, black beans, corn, vegetable broth, and tomato paste to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
3. Spice it Up: Now, add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir everything together to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the chili base.
4. Simmer and Develop Flavor: Bring the chili mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for at least 15-20 minutes. Simmering allows the flavors to meld and deepen, creating a richer and more complex chili. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it will become!
5. Add the Pasta and “Cheese” Ingredients: Uncover the pot and stir in the elbow macaroni. Pour in the coconut milk, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic powder, and turmeric. Stir everything thoroughly to ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid and the “cheese” ingredients are well incorporated.
6. Cook the Pasta: Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture back to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot again, and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and tender, and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot and to ensure even cooking.
7. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from the heat and taste the chili mac. Adjust seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, chili powder, or cayenne pepper to reach your preferred flavor profile. This is the perfect time to customize it to your taste!
8. Serve and Enjoy! Ladle the One-Pot Vegan Chili Mac into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as fresh cilantro, chopped green onions, avocado slices, a dollop of vegan sour cream, or vegan cheese shreds. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful vegan meal!

Nutrition Facts: Hearty and Wholesome

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used. This is based on an estimated serving size of approximately 1.5 cups.)

Servings: Approximately 6-8 servings

Calories per serving (estimated): 450-550 calories

Approximate Nutritional Breakdown per serving:

• Protein: 15-20 grams
• Fat: 15-20 grams (depending on coconut milk and oil usage)
• Saturated Fat: Varies, higher if using full-fat coconut milk
• Carbohydrates: 60-70 grams
• Fiber: 15-20 grams
• Sugar: Varies depending on tomato products and corn
• Sodium: Varies depending on broth and canned goods used (choose low-sodium options to reduce sodium content)

Key Nutritional Highlights:

• Plant-Based Protein: Packed with protein from beans and nutritional yeast, making it a satisfying and muscle-building meal.
• High in Fiber: The beans, vegetables, and whole grain pasta contribute significant fiber, promoting digestive health and satiety.
• Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Bell peppers, tomatoes, and beans provide essential vitamins and minerals like Vitamin C, Vitamin A, potassium, and iron.
• Vegan and Dairy-Free: A great option for those following a vegan diet or with dairy sensitivities.
• Comforting and Satisfying: Provides warmth and comfort while being a relatively healthy and balanced meal.

Preparation Time: Quick and Convenient

• Prep Time: 15-20 minutes (chopping vegetables, measuring ingredients)
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes (including simmering and pasta cooking)
• Total Time: Approximately 45-55 minutes

This One-Pot Vegan Chili Mac is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious and wholesome meal on the table quickly without spending hours in the kitchen. The one-pot cooking method also significantly reduces cleanup time, making it an even more appealing option for easy weeknight dinners.

How to Serve Your One-Pot Vegan Chili Mac: Versatile and Delicious

This chili mac is delicious on its own, but here are some fantastic ways to serve it and enhance your meal:

• Classic Toppings:
  • Fresh Cilantro: Adds a bright, herbaceous flavor.
  • Chopped Green Onions: Provides a mild oniony bite and freshness.
  • Avocado Slices or Guacamole: Creamy and healthy fats complement the chili flavors.
  • Vegan Sour Cream: Adds a tangy and cool contrast to the warm chili.
  • Vegan Cheese Shreds: Melty vegan cheese adds extra cheesy goodness.
  • Jalapeño Slices: For those who like extra heat.
• Side Dishes to Complement Chili Mac:
  • Cornbread: A classic pairing with chili, cornbread adds a touch of sweetness and crumbly texture.
  • Side Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chili mac.
  • Garlic Bread or Breadsticks: For soaking up every last bit of the delicious sauce.
  • Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Add extra veggies like broccoli, green beans, or Brussels sprouts for a more balanced meal.
• Serving Occasions:
  • Weeknight Dinner: Perfect for a quick, easy, and satisfying family meal.
  • Casual Gatherings: Great for potlucks, game nights, or casual get-togethers with friends.
  • Meal Prep: Make a big batch on the weekend and enjoy leftovers for lunches throughout the week.
  • Comfort Food Cravings: Ideal for those days when you crave a warm, comforting, and flavorful meal.
  • Vegan or Vegetarian Guests: A crowd-pleasing vegan dish that everyone will enjoy, regardless of dietary preferences.

Additional Tips for Perfect One-Pot Vegan Chili Mac

Here are 5 helpful tips to ensure your One-Pot Vegan Chili Mac is a resounding success:

1. Adjust Spice Level to Your Preference: This recipe provides a mild to medium spice level. If you prefer a spicier chili mac, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes. For a milder version, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper altogether. You can also add a chopped jalapeño or serrano pepper for more intense heat.
2. Customize Your Beans and Vegetables: Feel free to substitute or add other beans and vegetables to your liking. Pinto beans, white beans, or even lentils can be used in place of or in addition to kidney and black beans. You can also add other vegetables like diced zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms to boost the nutritional value and flavor profile.
3. Use High-Quality Canned Tomatoes: The quality of your canned tomatoes can significantly impact the flavor of your chili mac. Opt for good quality diced tomatoes, preferably fire-roasted for a deeper, smoky flavor. Using whole peeled tomatoes and crushing them yourself can also enhance the texture and flavor.
4. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep a close eye on the pasta while it’s cooking. Overcooked pasta will become mushy and detract from the overall texture of the dish. Cook until the pasta is just tender and “al dente.” Remember that the pasta will continue to absorb liquid even after cooking, so it’s better to slightly undercook it rather than overcook.
5. Make it Gluten-Free: To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free elbow macaroni or another gluten-free short pasta shape. Ensure all other ingredients, particularly vegetable broth and any toppings, are also certified gluten-free if you are strictly avoiding gluten.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered About One-Pot Vegan Chili Mac

Q1: Can I make this chili mac ahead of time?

A: Yes, absolutely! One-Pot Vegan Chili Mac is a great make-ahead meal. In fact, the flavors often deepen and improve after sitting for a day or two in the refrigerator. Prepare the chili mac as directed, let it cool completely, and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. You may need to add a splash of water or vegetable broth when reheating to loosen the sauce as the pasta will absorb some of the liquid.

Q2: Can I freeze One-Pot Vegan Chili Mac?

A: While you can freeze chili mac, the pasta texture might change slightly upon thawing and reheating, becoming a bit softer. For best results, it’s recommended to freeze the chili base without the pasta. Prepare the chili base as directed up to step 4 (simmering). Let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to serve, thaw the chili base overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat the chili base on the stovetop, then cook the pasta separately according to package directions and add it to the reheated chili base along with the “cheese” ingredients (coconut milk, nutritional yeast, etc.) as per step 5 and 6 in the recipe instructions.

Q3: I don’t have coconut milk. Can I use another plant-based milk?

A: Yes, you can substitute coconut milk with other plant-based milks such as oat milk, soy milk, or cashew milk. Full-fat plant-based milks will provide a creamier texture closer to coconut milk. If using lower-fat plant milks, the chili mac might be slightly less rich and creamy, but still delicious. You can also add a tablespoon or two of vegan butter or cashew cream to enhance the creaminess if desired.

Q4: Can I make this recipe oil-free?

A: Yes, you can easily make this recipe oil-free. Instead of sautéing the onions and peppers in olive oil, you can sauté them in a tablespoon or two of water or vegetable broth. Keep an eye on them and add more liquid as needed to prevent sticking. The rest of the recipe is naturally oil-free if you omit any oil-based toppings.

Q5: What if I don’t have nutritional yeast? Can I still make this recipe?

A: Nutritional yeast is a key ingredient for creating the cheesy flavor in this vegan chili mac. However, if you don’t have it on hand, you can still make a delicious chili mac, though it will lack the distinct cheesy flavor. You can try substituting with a small amount of white miso paste (about 1-2 teaspoons) for a savory umami flavor, or simply omit it and enjoy it as a flavorful, cheesy-less chili mac. For a truly cheesy alternative, consider using store-bought vegan cheese shreds or a homemade vegan cheese sauce instead of nutritional yeast, though this might require adjusting the liquid content and cooking time.

This One-Pot Vegan Chili Mac is more than just a recipe; it’s a comforting, flavorful, and incredibly easy meal solution for busy weeknights and beyond. Give it a try and experience the deliciousness and convenience for yourself! You might just find your new family favorite.

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