three bean chili recipe
The Best three bean chili recipe
I’m so excited to share with you my favorite three bean chili recipe, a classic dish that has been a staple in our household for years. I remember my grandmother making it for me when I was a kid, and I would always look forward to it on lazy Sundays. As an adult, I’ve tweaked the recipe to make it my own, adding a few secret ingredients that take it to the next level.
This recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or just need a comforting meal for a chilly evening. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and effort. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and they’re always eager to taste-test new creations.
One of the things I love about this recipe is its versatility. You can serve it with crusty bread, over rice, or even as a filling for tacos. It’s also packed with nutrients, thanks to the trio of beans: black beans provide fiber and protein, while kidney beans add antioxidants and pinto beans contribute folate and iron.
Now, let’s talk about the taste. This three bean chili has a rich, deep flavor that’s both familiar and exciting at the same time. The combination of spices – cumin, chili powder, and cayenne pepper – creates a warmth that spreads through your body as you take each bite.
And don’t even get me started on the aroma – it’s like a hug in a bowl. As I mentioned earlier, this recipe is incredibly easy to make. Simply sauté some onions and garlic until softened, then add in your beans (cooked according to package instructions), diced tomatoes, broth, and spices.
Let it simmer until everything is well combined and heated through. The end result is nothing short of magic: a hearty bowl of goodness that will leave everyone satisfied and happy.

Three Bean Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili made with a trio of beans, ground beef, and a rich blend of spices. This dish is perfect for a comforting meal on a cold day.
🥘Ingredients
For the Chili
👨🍳Directions
🔧Equipment
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Three Bean Chili Works
This three bean chili recipe is always a good idea for any occasion. I love that it is so versatile and can be adjusted to suit different tastes and dietary needs. It is a perfect dish for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy night in. It’s a dish that everyone loves, and it’s easy to make in large quantities.
It’s a great recipe to have on hand for busy weeknights or when you need to feed a crowd. It is a dish that you can feel good about serving to your family and friends, as it is both delicious and nutritious. This chili is a staple in our family and I always keep a batch in the freezer. I love that this recipe makes a large batch, so I can freeze portions for later meals, which is great for busy weeks.
It’s a dish that is both delicious and nutritious. The meat, beans, and vegetables make it a balanced meal on its own, but you can also serve it with cornbread, rice, or a side salad. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and reheated on the stove or in the microwave. It reheats beautifully and is often better the next day as the flavors have had time to meld together.
You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Three Bean Chili
Q: Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
A: Yes! While I prefer using fresh tomatoes for their juiciness and flavor, canned tomatoes are perfectly fine as well. Just be sure to drain them before adding them to your chili.
Q: How do I store leftover chili?
A: Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
Q: Can I substitute other types of beans?
A: While this recipe calls for black beans, kidney beans, and pinto beans specifically, you can experiment with other types if you’d like. However, keep in mind that different beans will change the flavor profile slightly.
Q: How do I adjust the spice level?
A: If you prefer milder heat or want to tone down the spiciness level altogether, simply reduce or omit one or more of the hot peppers from your pantry.
Q: What if my children don’t like spicy food?
A: No problem! For younger kids who may not enjoy spicy flavors yet (or ever!), consider omitting one or more hot peppers from your pantry altogether.