2 15 ouncecans kidney beansdrained and rinsed; I use light red and dark red beans
1cupshredded cheddar cheeseMozzarella or Montery Jack work too
chopped green onionsfor topping
chopped fresh cilantrofor topping
sour creamfor topping
Instructions
Heat a 6-quart pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Drizzle in the olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped mushrooms, diced onions, and bell pepper. Sprinkle with salt. Sauté for 6-8 minutes, or until the onions and mushrooms have softened.
Add the garlic and optional jalapeno and sauté a minute more, or until golden and aromatic.
Add chili powder, cumin, oregano, and black pepper. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring continuously to prevent burning. Add a splash of vegetable broth, stirring to deglaze the pot (this removes any stuck on bits from the pot).
Pour in the crushed tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, and vegetable broth. Cover with a lid and bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the elbow noodles and drained kidney beans. Stir to prevent the pasta from sticking together. Boil uncovered until pasta is tender (see note 1).
Once the pasta is cooked, turn off heat and stir in cheddar cheese. Serve topped with fresh cilantro, sour cream and sliced green onions. Enjoy!
Video
Notes
Pasta: Pasta cook time will vary based on brand. Cook pasta until al dente, or fork tender.
Beans: I use light red kidney beans and dark red kidney beans. Alternatively, you can use whatever bean you have on hand, like black beans or white beans.
Broth: I prefer to use vegetable bouillon to broth these days because it is cheaper and tends to be more flavorful. I use about a tablespoon of bouillon per 4 cups water.
Best within 3-4 days. The sauce thickens significantly after refrigerating as the pasta continues to absorb liquid. This meal can be portioned into large or individual containers and frozen for up to 3 months. These are the containers I use. It will need to thaw in the fridge for up to 24 hours before enjoying.
You can watch the full step-by-step recipe video on my YouTube.