Vegetarian Chili Mac

 

Yesterday was a lazy Saturday for us once the afternoon arrived. Morning time saw hubby and I  out dashing around town doing errands. Then it was home to restock the bird and suet feeders, get some lunch, and do some chores. Finally, we had a lazy afternoon of reading, movies, games. Dinner was needing to be comfort food. We were tired and  wanted healthy but quick. I pulled out my Vegetarian Chili Mac recipe I hadn't used in probably 10 years and made this delish dish. We have enough for leftovers tonight. This is a "meatless" meal although last night, I had vegan "steak" tips to use up so we tossed those into the pan. SO good. 

VEGETARIAN CHILI MAC

1 c. uncooked pasta, any shape

(we like the curly or elbow)

1 small green pepper, seeded and chopped

1 small sweet onion, chopped

1 can (15 oz) vegetarian chili beans

(I use the Bushes brand)

1/2 c. frozen corn

(I steam mine for 3 minutes in the microwave)

1 c. shredded cheddar cheese

(you can also use monterey jack) 

• Cook pasta according to package directions.
• Meanwhile, in a large skillet, saute the peppers and onions over medium heat. If you're adding in vegan "beef" cook for about 6 minutes stirring often. 
• Add in the corn and heat through. 
• Drain the pasta and place in a large serving bowl that is oven-safe. 
• Mix in the pepper/onion/corn mix and sprinkle with minced garlic and/or hot pepper flakes. (you can also use  chili powder for extra "heat" ). I just use garlic. 
• Top with shredded cheese and mix gently.
• Heat in 325 oven for about 10 minutes.

I serve this with a freshly sliced orange or a fruit  cup of Pineapple, blackberries, raspberries, blueberries and purple grapes. 

TIPS:  for extra veggies, add in red, yellow, orange pepper with the green pepper. (I had none in the house so just used the green pepper and corn).  I've also made this with shredded carrot (about a half cup) and chopped broccoli. It's so good!

ENJOY!

ps as with all recipes under the "faithfixes" label, you do have permission to copy/download/print out.