Chili Mac ‘n Cheese

Chili Mac ‘n Cheese

Tad Tandler

Servings

4–6

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

15 minutes

Calories

500

Cuisine

Comfort Food Fusion

Category

Chili Ideas

More plant-based protein with Tad’s Dad’s Chili? 

Yes, please! 🌱🔥 This #MeatlessMonday, try Chili Mac ‘n Cheese—a creamy, hearty, flavor-packed twist on a classic.

 It’s cozy, it’s bold, and it’s the easiest way to sneak in some extra plant power. Who’s digging in?!

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups Tad’s Dad’s Chili (vegan)
  • 12 oz pasta (macaroni, shells, or elbows)
  • 1 ½ cups plant-based cheese sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • ½ cup shredded vegan cheese (cheddar-style)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegan butter
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • ¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
  • ¼ cup chopped parsley or green onions, for garnish

Directions

  1. Cook the Pasta

    – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
    – Add your pasta of choice and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
    – Drain and toss with olive oil or vegan butter to prevent sticking.

  2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce

    – If using store-bought cheese sauce, warm it in a small saucepan over low heat.
    – If making homemade sauce, blend together cashews, plant-based milk, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until smooth.

  3. Mix in the Chili

    – Heat Tad’s Dad’s Chili in a separate saucepan until warmed through.
    – Stir the chili into the cooked pasta.

  4. Add the Cheese & Bake (Optional)

    – Pour in the plant-based cheese sauce, stirring until everything is well combined.
    – If baking, transfer to a lightly greased baking dish, top with vegan cheese and breadcrumbs, and broil for 3–5 minutes until golden.

  5. Garnish & Serve

    – Sprinkle with chopped parsley or green onions before serving.
    – Dig in and enjoy this bold, cozy, and protein-packed comfort meal!