Name: Vegetarian Chili Mac for the Table
Yield: 6

Vegetarian Chili Mac is a hearty, comforting dish loaded with pasta, beans, corn, cheese, and tomatoes. And it’s ready in 30 minutes or less!

Vegetarian Chili Mac in the pot ready to be served up and enjoyed.

author’s note

The Chili Mac My Kids Ask for Again and Again!

Chili Mac has always been one of those dinners that just works. It’s cheesy, hearty, filling, and my kids never complain, which honestly feels like a win every time. I wanted something even easier though. No browning meat, no separate pasta pot, just everything in one pot.

So I simplified it. A few pantry staples, uncooked pasta straight into the pot, and a big handful of cheese melted on top. That’s it. It’s the kind of meal I can toss together at the end of a long day and know everyone’s going to be happy.

Quick Tip

Even though this meal is vegetarian, it’s packed with plant-based protein. The beans add lots of fiber and protein, making it super filling. Plus, it’s cheaper and easier to make!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Vegetarian Chili Mac:

Oil: Used to cook the garlic and spices, making a tasty base for the chili mac.
Garlic: Pre-minced or frozen garlic cubes make things quicker.
Seasonings: Add flavor and spice; adjust for your taste.
Garlic powder: Gives a different garlic taste than minced garlic.
Tomato paste: Makes the sauce thicker and richer.
Crushed tomatoes: The better the quality, the better the flavor!
Vegetable broth: You can use chicken broth if you’re not vegetarian.
Elbow pasta: Uncooked pasta cooks right in the pot and comes out tender.
Beans: You can use two cans of your favorite beans instead of two different kinds.
Frozen corn: No need to thaw. Fire-roasted corn gives extra flavor.
Cheddar cheese: Extra-sharp has a stronger, bolder flavor!

Vegetarian Chili Mac Toppings

This dish is satisfying as is, but you can add extra flavor with these toppings:

Fresh cilantro
Sour cream (fat-free or light works great)
Diced avocado or guacamole

Sautéing the spices and tomato paste, then cooking the broth, beans, corn, and noodles for this vegetarian chili mac.

How To Make Vegetarian Chili Mac

1. Sauté garlic & spices: Heat oil in a large pot, add garlic, cook until fragrant, then mix in seasonings and tomato paste.
2. Add liquids & pasta: Pour in tomatoes and broth, then add uncooked pasta, beans, and corn. Bring to a simmer.
3. Cook: Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes until pasta is tender.
4. Add cheese: Remove from heat, mix in half the cheese, sprinkle the rest on top, cover, and let it melt.
5. Serve: Remove the lid and enjoy!

The pasta being cooked and cheese being mixed in.

Vegetarian Chili Mac Tips

Use elbow pasta because other shapes might not cook or soak up liquid as well.
Cook in a nonstick pot to keep the pasta from sticking.
Stir every now and then to cook it evenly.
Take off the heat when the pasta is firm but not soft, as it will keep cooking after.
Add cheese after removing from the heat to prevent a grainy texture.

Variations

Add meat: Brown 1 pound of ground beef or turkey at the start. Drain any extra fat, then continue with the recipe as written.
Add heat: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Add veggies: mix in diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for more nutrients.

What To Serve With Vegetarian Chili Mac:

Garden salad: A fresh, crisp salad balances out the hearty chili mac.
Cornbread: reliable for dipping and soaking up the sauce.
Roasted vegetables: Roasted broccoli or carrot for extra veggies.
Tortilla chips: Add some crunch on the side or crumble on top for more texture.