Name: Three Bean Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained; 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans (white kidney beans), rinsed and drained; 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes; 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 (4 oz) can chopped green chilies, undrained; 1 cup vegetable broth; 2 tbsp chili powder; 1 tbsp ground cumin; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp dried oregano; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat); Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; Shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions (for serving)

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This three bean chili recipe is pure comfort in a bowl. It’s packed with hearty beans and rich, savory tomato notes. Every spoonful is a warm hug. It’s the kind of soul-warming dish that makes a chilly evening feel instantly better.

I love making this chili on a busy weeknight. It’s so simple but tastes like it simmered for hours. Plus, leftovers are even better the next day. Everyone in my family asks for it by name.

Why I Love This Recipe

This Three Bean Chili is genuinely one of my go-to recipes. It truly is a weeknight marvel.

It comes together incredibly fast.
The depth of flavor is surprising for how little effort it takes.
It’s so versatile.
It’s deeply satisfying comfort food.

It always gets rave reviews. This easy chili recipe is a keeper!

Three Bean Chili Ingredients

The magic in this three bean chili truly comes from its simple, wholesome ingredients. It’s a beautiful dance of textures and tastes.

Let’s look at what makes this vegetarian chili so special:

Olive Oil: Our base for sautéing. It’s the foundation of flavor.
Onion: Adds a sweet, aromatic depth. It softens beautifully.
Garlic: Essential for that pungent punch. It wakes everything up.
Kidney Beans: These provide a robust texture. They’re hearty and satisfying.
Black Beans: Offer a slightly earthy note. They add fantastic color too.
Cannellini Beans: These creamy white beans bring a tender bite. They balance the others.
Crushed Tomatoes: They create a thick, rich sauce base. This is the heart of the chili.
Diced Tomatoes: Add little bursts of tomato goodness. They bring needed moisture.
Chopped Green Chilies: A gentle warmth and subtle tang. They add a lovely complexity.
Vegetable Broth: Helps achieve the perfect consistency. It ties all the flavors together.
Chili Powder: Our star spice blend. It gives that classic chili flavor.
Ground Cumin: Adds earthy warmth. It’s a vital chili component.
Smoked Paprika: Brings a delightful smoky undertone. It’s a real flavor enhancer.
Dried Oregano: Offers a hint of herbal brightness. It complements the tomatoes.
Cayenne Pepper (Optional): For those who love a bit of fire. Adjust to your heat preference.
Salt and Black Pepper: To perfectly season. Always taste and adjust!

Substitutions and Tips

Don’t have cannellini beans? Pinto beans work wonderfully. For a touch more richness, a splash of red wine vinegar at the end can brighten things up. If you’re not a fan of green chilies, a small diced bell pepper sautéed with the onion is a great swap. You can also boost the fiber and flavor by adding a cup of corn or some diced zucchini. Remember, exact amounts are in the printable recipe!

How to Make Three Bean Chili

Making this delicious three bean chili is quite straightforward. Follow these easy steps. You’ll have a wonderful meal before you know it. This vegetarian chili is perfect for any night.

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

First, grab a big pot. Heat your olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion. Cook it until it gets nice and soft. About five to seven minutes usually does the trick. This step builds our flavor base. Then, toss in the minced garlic. Cook it for just one minute more. You want it fragrant, not burned.

Step 2: Combine Beans and Tomatoes

Now, it’s time for the heart of our easy chili recipe. Add all the beans. This includes kidney, black, and cannellini beans. Rinse and drain them first. Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes. Add the diced tomatoes too, including their juice. Don’t forget the chopped green chilies. They add a special kind of warmth, and even a bit of liquid.

Step 3: Add Spices and Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth. This helps make the chili the right consistency. Now, stir in our spice blend. Add chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Don’t forget the oregano. If you like it spicy, add the cayenne pepper now. Give it all a really good stir. Make sure everything is well combined.

Step 4: Simmer and Meld Flavors

Bring the chili mixture up to a gentle simmer. Once it’s bubbling lightly, lower the heat. Put a lid on the pot. Let it cook for at least 30 minutes. The longer it simmers, the better the flavors meld. Stir it every so often. This prevents anything from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Step 5: Season and Serve

After simmering, taste your hearty chili. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Tailor the seasoning to your liking. Serve the chili hot. It’s wonderful topped with shredded cheese. A dollop of sour cream is nice too. Chopped green onions add a fresh finish. Enjoy this amazing plant-based chili!

How to Store Three Bean Chili

Storing your leftover three bean chili is super easy. For the fridge, let it cool completely. Then, put it in an airtight container. It stays delicious for about three to four days. Looking to keep it longer? Freeze it! Once cooled, portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. Frozen chili lasts for up to three months. It’s a fantastic meal prep hack for busy weeks!