20 Minute Lentil Chili Mac
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Dinner is Served: Quick & Easy Vegan Lentil Chili Mac
Sometimes you just crave something warm, comforting, and completely satisfying. But the thought of spending hours in the kitchen? Not so appealing. That’s where this Vegan Lentil Chili Mac recipe comes in. It’s a hearty, flavorful dish that’s ready in just 20 minutes, making it the perfect solution for those busy weeknights when you need a delicious and easy meal.
Imagine tender pasta coated in a rich, subtly spiced tomato sauce, studded with protein-packed lentils, and finished with a generous sprinkle of melty vegan cheddar. All this comes together incredibly fast!
Why This Recipe Works / A Weeknight Vegan Lentil Chili Mac Win
This Vegan Lentil Chili Mac recipe works because it leverages the convenience of canned lentils and simple pantry staples. There’s no need for long simmering times or a ton of chopping. By using pre-cooked lentils, we cut down on cooking time without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. It’s also easily customizable – adjust the spice levels to your preference and add your favorite toppings for a personalized meal that always hits the spot.
Lentil Chili Mac Recipe Context
Chili mac, a beloved comfort food classic, often relies on meat and dairy. This recipe takes a compassionate and delicious approach, swapping ground beef for lentils and dairy cheese for its vegan counterpart. It’s a modern twist on a classic that is easily adapted for various dietary needs and preferences, offering a satisfying and inclusive meal for everyone.
Ingredients Needed for Vegan Lentil Chili Mac
- 8 ounces pasta (2 cups), cooked al dente
- 15 ounces brown lentil beans, drained and rinsed (1 can)
- 2 cups tomato juice or tomato sauce, add more if you want saucier
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin, add more or less depending on smokiness
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 – 2 teaspoons chili powder, add more or less depending on spiciness
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (plus more to taste)
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups vegan cheddar cheese (shredded), add more on top if you want, can melt on top as well
Instructions How to Make Vegan Lentil Chili Mac Step-by-Step
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Stir in the pasta and cook it according to the package directions, until al dente.
- Drain and rinse the lentil beans, set aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, in a large pot add the tomato juice/sauce, spices and raise the heat and bring the liquid to a low boil.
- Add the lentil beans and cooked pasta to the tomato mixture and mix together.
- Add the cheese and stir it throughout the pasta.
- To serve, choose your choice of toppings: sliced avocado, fresh cilantro or parsley, sliced green onions, vegan sour cream, black olives, green chiles, etc.
Recipe Tips and Variations for this Quick Vegan Chili Mac Recipe
- Add some heat: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to kick up the spiciness.
- Veggie boost: Stir in some chopped bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for added nutrients and texture.
- Smoky flavor: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a deeper, more complex flavor profile.
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Vegan Lentil Chili Mac can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. You may need to add a splash of water or tomato juice to loosen it up.
Vegan Lentil Chili Mac FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of lentil?
A: Brown or green lentils are best for this recipe as they hold their shape well. Red lentils tend to break down and could make the chili mac too mushy.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes! Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta. Everything else is naturally gluten-free.
A Bowlful of Comfort
This Quick Vegan Chili Mac Recipe is a simple, satisfying, and versatile meal that is sure to become a family favorite. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy plant-based comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen.
For more delicious and easy vegan recipes, follow us on Pinterest, Instagram, and Facebook!
More Recipes Like This
- Vegan Mac and Cheese
- Easy Vegan Cheesy Sun-Dried Tomato Mushroom Pasta
- Vegan BBQ Lentil Sloppy Joes: A Tangy, Smoky Twist on a Classic!
20 Minute Lentil Chili Mac
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (2 cups), cooked al dente
- 15 ounces brown lentil beans drained and rinsed (1 can) (approx. 420g)
- 2 cups tomato juice or tomato sauce add more if you want saucier (approx. 480ml)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin add more or less depending on smokiness
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 - 2 teaspoons chili powder add more or less depending on spiciness
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (plus more to taste)
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups vegan cheddar cheese (shredded), add more on top if you want, can melt on top as well (approx. 240ml to 360ml)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Stir in the pasta and cook it according to the package directions, until al dente.
- Drain and rinse the lentil beans, set aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, in a large pot add the tomato juice/sauce, spices and raise the heat and bring the liquid to a low boil.
- Add the lentil beans and cooked pasta to the tomato mixture and mix together.
- Add the cheese and stir it throughout the pasta.
- To serve, choose your choice of toppings: sliced avocado, fresh cilantro or parsley, sliced green onions, vegan sour cream, black olives, green chiles, etc.
Notes
