Spicy Chili-Mac
Spicy Chili-Mac combines hearty beans, tender pasta, and bold chili flavors, creating a comforting and satisfying vegetarian dish. Perfect for cozy dinners, it balances spice, acidity, and cheesy richness, appealing to those who enjoy flavorful, quick, and nutritious meals with a touch of heat.
Ingredients
- 1 large carrot, chopped ⓘ
- 1 large onion, chopped ⓘ
- 1/4 cup water ⓘ
- 3 1/2 ounces can vegetable broth ⓘ
- 1 15-ounce can undrained chopped tomatoes
- 1 15-ounce can undrained pinto beans ⓘ
- 1 15-ounce can undrained kidney beans ⓘ
- 3 tablespoons chili powder ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon chopped garlic ⓘ
- 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine chopped carrot, chopped onion, and water in a large saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring until the liquid has evaporated, about 10 minutes.
- Add V-8 vegetable juice, undrained chopped tomatoes, pinto beans, kidney beans, chili powder, chopped garlic, and Parmesan cheese to the saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then add uncooked macaroni and cook for about 8-10 minutes or until the macaroni is tender.
- If the mixture is too thick, add additional V-8 juice; if too thin, boil until it reaches desired consistency.
- Ladle into bowls and top with nonfat yogurt and crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing the chopped onion and carrot in olive oil before adding the water. If you're looking for a quicker version, substitute fresh garlic with garlic powder, using about 1/4 teaspoon. You can also replace the pinto and kidney beans with black beans or chickpeas for a different texture. For a creamier finish, stir in a dollop of sour cream just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Spicy Chili-Mac hot, garnished with a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese and a dollop of nonfat yogurt or sour cream. It pairs beautifully with Garlic Rolls for a hearty meal. Consider serving a side salad for freshness or some warm Crescent Roll Treats for a comforting touch alongside this dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the mixture, then warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, microwave in a covered bowl, stirring halfway through, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Chili-Mac contains roughly 278 calories, with 15g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (46% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value), and protein (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. At about 278 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe can easily be made vegan by omitting the Parmesan cheese or substituting it with a vegan alternative. Additionally, ensure that the vegetable broth you use is free from animal products. This maintains the integrity of the dish while keeping it plant-based.
What type of macaroni is best for this dish?
While traditional elbow macaroni works well, you can use whole wheat or gluten-free macaroni for a healthier or dietary-friendly option. The cooking time may vary slightly, so check the package instructions for perfect tenderness. Opting for a larger pasta shape, like shells, can also add a fun twist to your chili-mac.
Can I freeze Spicy Chili-Mac?
Yes, you can freeze Spicy Chili-Mac for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit of liquid if necessary to restore its creamy texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).