Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil Provides a healthy fat base for sautéing aromatics and helps distribute flavors evenly, making the chili rich and smooth.
1 yellow onion Adds a sweet, foundational flavor that builds the base of the chili and enhances the overall taste with its natural sugars.
4 cloves garlic Brings a pungent, aromatic punch that boosts the dish’s depth and offers immune-boosting properties for added health benefits.
1/2 pound ground beef Supplies protein and a hearty texture, but it can be swapped for lighter options; it’s essential for those who enjoy a meaty black bean chili.
3 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained The star of this black bean recipe, providing plant-based protein, fiber, and a creamy consistency that thickens the chili naturally.
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles Infuses acidity and a bit of heat, adding moisture and a fresh twist to make the chili more vibrant and flavorful.
1 can (6 oz) tomato paste Concentrates the tomato flavor and helps thicken the mixture, creating that classic chili body without extra effort.
1 tablespoon chili powder Delivers the signature spice and warmth, enhancing the black bean chili with a bold, earthy taste that’s easy to adjust.
1 teaspoon ground cumin Adds a nutty, smoky note that complements the beans and spices, giving the dish an authentic, comforting flavor profile.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika Contributes a subtle smokiness that elevates the overall taste, making this black bean variation feel more complex and inviting.
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano Brings herbal undertones that balance the spices and add a Mediterranean flair for a well-rounded black bean chili experience.
1/2 teaspoon salt Seasons the dish perfectly, enhancing all the flavors without overwhelming them, and can be adjusted based on dietary needs.
2 cups water Serves as the liquid base to simmer everything together, helping to blend flavors and achieve the right consistency for a hearty chili.
Instructions
First Step: Prep Your Ingredients Dice the 1 yellow onion and mince the 4 cloves garlic to get things started. This mise en place helps everything cook evenly and saves time later plus, for vegan swaps, you can add extra veggies here. Aim for about 5 minutes of prep to keep your black bean chili moving quickly on the stove.
Second Step: Heat and Sauté Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, then add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes, stirring to avoid burning for low-sodium options, use less oil or a spritz of water. This step builds flavor in your black bean chili and can be adapted for a slow cooker by transferring everything after sautéing.
Third Step: Brown the Protein Add 1/2 pound ground beef to the pot and cook until fully browned, about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon. If you’re going vegetarian, swap in lentils or tofu here for a protein-packed black bean variation that still feels hearty. Keep an eye on the time to ensure it doesn’t overcook, maintaining that juicy texture in your chili.
Fourth Step: Combine and Simmer Now, add the 3 cans (15 oz each) drained black beans, 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles, 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste, 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 2 cups water. Stir everything together to mix well, then cover the pot and bring to a simmer over medium heat. For a gluten-free version, double-check your spices, and reduce heat to medium-low for about 15 minutes of simmering, stirring occasionally to blend flavors and thicken it’s a great spot to add more water if your black bean chili needs adjustment for consistency.
Final Step: Taste and Serve Once simmered, taste the chili and adjust salt if needed, then remove from heat. For dietary preferences, like making it spicier or milder, tweak the seasonings now. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, and you’re done! This black bean recipe clocks in at just 30 minutes total, perfect for whipping up a quick, adaptable meal for the whole family.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
🌶️ For a milder chili, substitute plain diced tomatoes for the diced tomatoes with green chiles.
🥩 Ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef.
🌶️ Add sliced jalapeños for an extra kick of spice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Chili
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.3 cups
- Calories: 358
- Sodium: 1292mg
- Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 17g
- Protein: 22g