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warm and cheesy leftover chili recipe
Isla Marie

Leftover Chili Recipe

This leftover chili recipe is a quick and comforting way to transform yesterday’s chili into a brand-new meal. With simple pantry ingredients, melted cheese, fresh veggies, and your choice of pasta or rice, this upgraded chili becomes the perfect 20-minute dinner for busy nights.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner, Main Course, One Pot Meal
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 340
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 –3 cups leftover chili any type: beef, turkey, chicken, or vegetarian
  • 1 cup cooked pasta elbow, penne, or shells or cooked rice
  • 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend
  • ½ cup water or broth as needed for consistency
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste optional, for richer flavor
Fresh Add-Ins (Optional)
  • 1 onion diced
  • 1 bell pepper diced
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 small can sweet corn
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
Toppings (Optional)
  • Sour cream
  • Green onions
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Jalapeño slices
  • Crushed tortilla chips

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Wooden spoon
  • Cutting board & knife
  • Measuring cups
  • Serving bowls

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Vegetables:
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until soft and fragrant.
  3. Add the Leftover Chili:
  4. Stir in the leftover chili. Add a splash of broth/water if it looks too thick.
  5. Enhance the Flavor:
  6. Mix in tomato paste (optional) for a richer, freshly-cooked taste.
  7. Add the Pasta or Rice:
  8. Fold in the cooked pasta or rice and combine everything evenly.
  9. Melt the Cheese:
  10. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. Cover the skillet and let it melt for 2–3 minutes.
  11. Serve:
  12. Spoon into bowls and add your favorite toppings such as sour cream, cilantro, or tortilla chips.