Creating a delicious chili from scratch might seem daunting, but it’s surprisingly straightforward. My signature Three Bean Chili recipe offers both speed and convenience, perfect for any schedule. You can whip it up on your stovetop in about 90 minutes for a quick weeknight meal or let it slow-cook in a crockpot all day, filling your home with an irresistible aroma. This hearty chili is crafted with rich ground beef, a trio of robust beans, savory canned tomatoes, and my secret weapon: a homemade chili seasoning blend. It’s a timeless classic that has been a cherished family favorite for years, and its versatility allows you to easily adjust the spice level to suit everyone’s preference, from mild to fiery hot.
Embracing the Comfort of Chili Weather
There’s an undeniable magic that happens when the temperature drops. A crisp autumn breeze or a chilly winter day instantly calls for something warm and comforting. For me, nothing quite hits the spot like a steaming bowl of homemade chili, capable of warming you from the inside out. Just today, we experienced one of those perfect “chili weather” days – cool enough to justify a big pot of my Three Bean Chili simmering gently on the stove. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience, a moment of cozy indulgence that brings everyone together.
I adore a robust bowl of hot chili, but I steer clear of those bland, pre-packaged mixes. The beauty of making chili from scratch lies in its simplicity and the depth of flavor you can achieve. I always make sure to keep a well-stocked pantry with a variety of beans, so when the craving for chili strikes, I’m ready. On particularly busy days, the crockpot becomes my best friend. It’s a delightful process of simply tossing in ground meat, beans, tomatoes, and a medley of carefully selected spices. For years, my chili-making was more art than science – a little bit of this, a dash of that, until it tasted just right. Eventually, I realized I needed to meticulously measure each ingredient to truly share my beloved “recipe” with you. Before that, it wasn’t a strict recipe; it was simply a magical pot of ingredients that miraculously transformed into the most incredible chili!
The joy of a homemade chili goes beyond its taste; it’s about the warmth it brings, the memories it creates, and the way it can turn an ordinary day into something special. Whether it’s a family dinner, a game-day gathering, or just a quiet evening at home, Three Bean Chili is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that delivers comfort in every spoonful. Its rich, savory profile, combined with the hearty texture of the beans and beef, creates a satisfying meal that banishes the cold and leaves you feeling utterly content.
Chili: With or Without Beans? A Timeless Debate
The question of whether chili should contain beans is a culinary debate as old as chili itself, particularly in Texas, where “true” chili con carne is often defined by the absence of beans. I confess, for a long time, I preferred my chili without beans. In fact, I used to meticulously pick them out! For the early years of my marriage, I’d simply omit them from my pot entirely. However, my husband is a big fan of beans in his chili, so I gradually started incorporating them. To my surprise, I began to appreciate the added texture and nutritional value they bring to the dish.
Historically, the original red chili, often associated with Texas-style chili, was indeed a pure meat and red chili pepper stew, devoid of beans or tomatoes. So, my initial preference wasn’t entirely unfounded; it aligned with a significant culinary tradition. Nevertheless, chili has evolved, and regional variations now include a vast array of ingredients. Beans, once a controversial addition, have become a staple in many beloved chili recipes across the globe, enhancing the dish with fiber, protein, and a delightful earthy flavor. Embracing beans not only makes the chili more filling but also stretches the meal further, making it an economical choice for feeding a family or a crowd. It’s a testament to the adaptability of chili that it can be enjoyed in so many forms, each delicious in its own right.
Selecting the Best Beans for Your Hearty Chili
When it comes to crafting a truly exceptional chili, the choice of beans is crucial. You’ll want to select varieties that are robust and can maintain their integrity throughout the cooking process, absorbing all those wonderful chili flavors without disintegrating into mush. Avoid delicate white beans that tend to break down quickly. Instead, opt for hardy beans that contribute both texture and depth to your dish.
The gold standard for chili beans includes Kidney beans (both red and dark red varieties), Black beans, and Pinto beans. Each brings its own unique characteristics:
- **Kidney Beans:** These are perhaps the most classic choice for chili. Their firm texture and slightly earthy flavor stand up beautifully to long simmering times, and their vibrant color adds visual appeal.
- **Black Beans:** Offering a creamy texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor, black beans are a fantastic addition. They contribute to the chili’s richness and pair wonderfully with the other robust ingredients.
- **Pinto Beans (or Chili Beans):** Pinto beans have a hearty texture and a mild, nutty flavor that makes them very versatile. “Chili beans” are essentially pinto beans that have been pre-cooked in a savory chili-spiced sauce. I often reach for a can of chili beans, believing that the extra layer of spice can only enhance the overall flavor profile of my homemade chili.
While you certainly can use dried beans for chili, which require soaking overnight and a longer cooking time, I’ve always found canned beans to be a much more convenient and equally delicious option. A quick rinse to remove excess sodium and you’re ready to dump them straight into the pot, saving valuable time without sacrificing flavor or texture. For this Three Bean Chili, I combine these three favorites to create a dynamic and satisfying blend that ensures every spoonful is packed with flavor and substance.
Mastering Homemade Chili from Scratch: A Step-by-Step Guide
One of the most appealing aspects of making chili from scratch is that the essential ingredients are typically kitchen staples. With the exception of fresh ground beef, I almost always have everything I need readily available in my pantry and spice cupboard, making spontaneous chili nights entirely possible.
My Three Bean Chili recipe features a simple yet powerful list of ingredients that come together to create a deeply flavorful and satisfying meal:
- **Ground Beef:** Lean ground beef forms the hearty base of this chili, providing rich, savory flavor.
- **Canned Tomatoes:** A combination of crushed and diced canned tomatoes creates a robust, tangy, and slightly sweet foundation for the chili, contributing to its luscious consistency.
- **Three Beans:** Canned black beans, dark red kidney beans, and chili beans (pinto beans in chili sauce) deliver a variety of textures and earthy flavors, making the chili exceptionally filling.
- **Aromatics:** Fresh onion (or dry chopped onion for convenience) and minced garlic are sautéed to build a fragrant flavor base.
- **Beef Broth:** This liquid ingredient adds depth and helps to bring all the flavors together, creating a perfectly balanced sauce.
- **Homemade Chili Seasoning Blend:** My special blend includes chili powder, paprika, red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, salt, and seasoned pepper. For those who love an extra fiery punch, a pinch of cayenne pepper can be added to amp up the spice. This combination of spices is what truly elevates the chili from good to unforgettable, providing a complex warmth and savory aroma that defines classic homemade chili.
To begin, in a sturdy soup pot or Dutch oven, brown your lean ground beef. As it cooks, season it generously with salt and pepper, and add your chopped fresh onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is softened and the garlic is fragrant. Once the beef is thoroughly browned, drain any excess grease to ensure a cleaner, less oily chili. This initial step is vital for building a deep, savory flavor foundation.
At this juncture, you have the flexibility to choose your cooking method. For a slow-cooked, hands-off approach, transfer the browned meat mixture to your slow cooker, then add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, beef broth, all three varieties of beans, and your carefully blended chili seasoning. Stir everything together until well combined, cover, and cook on low for approximately 6-8 hours. This extended cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in an incredibly rich and tender chili. If you prefer the stovetop method, simply add the tomatoes, beans, beef broth, and chili seasoning directly into the same pot with the browned beef. Stir well, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 60 to 90 minutes. The simmering process allows the ingredients to deepen in flavor and ensures the beans become wonderfully tender. Regardless of the method you choose, the result will be a fragrant and satisfying chili that’s perfect for any occasion.
Serving Your Perfect Three Bean Chili
Once your Three Bean Chili has simmered to perfection, ladle generous scoops into bowls and prepare for a truly satisfying meal. This classic chili is delicious on its own, but its true potential shines through with an array of customizable toppings. How do you like to crown your chili creation?
Some popular chili toppings include:
- **Shredded Cheese:** Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend add a creamy, savory layer.
- **Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt:** A dollop provides a cool, tangy contrast to the chili’s heat.
- **Fresh Herbs:** Chopped cilantro or green onions offer a burst of freshness and color.
- **Diced Avocado:** Creamy and rich, it’s a fantastic addition for a touch of healthy fat.
- **Jalapeños:** Sliced fresh or pickled jalapeños can add an extra layer of spice.
- **Crushed Tortilla Chips or Corn Chips:** For a delightful crunch and salty finish.
- **Hot Sauce:** A few dashes for those who crave even more heat.
We often serve our chili with a delightful assortment of accompaniments to complete the meal. Warm, fluffy homemade cornbread is an absolute winner, perfect for soaking up every last bit of the rich sauce. Other excellent choices include crusty bread, crisp crackers, extra shredded cheese for those who can’t get enough, and crunchy tortilla chips for dipping. Personally, I love my chili topped with a generous sprinkle of cheese and a handful of crispy tortilla chips for that perfect textural contrast. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, this Three Bean Chili promises a comforting and flavorful experience that will leave you feeling warm and satisfied.
Pin This Flavorful Recipe for Later!
Loved this easy and comforting Three Bean Chili recipe? Don’t let it get lost in your bookmarks! Pin it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board now so you can easily find it whenever you’re craving a hearty, homemade meal. Share the warmth and flavor with your friends and family!
And speaking of flavor, if you want to elevate your chili game even further, be sure to check out my indispensable Homemade Chili Seasoning Recipe. This blend is truly what makes my chili a family favorite, adding a complex and perfectly balanced spice profile that you won’t find in any store-bought packet. It’s easy to make in bulk and keep on hand for all your chili endeavors.
Chili topped with homemade cornbread is always a winning combination, offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. The moist, slightly sweet cornbread is perfect for soaking up the rich, savory chili. Beyond cornbread, we typically prepare an assortment of sides to complement our chili. These might include warm, soft bread rolls, various crackers, extra bowls of shredded cheese, and crispy tortilla chips. Each addition offers a unique way to enjoy and customize your chili experience.
For my personal preference, I find immense satisfaction in a bowl of chili generously topped with a sprinkle of sharp cheddar cheese and a handful of crunchy tortilla chips. The melty cheese adds a creamy richness, while the chips provide a satisfying crunch that elevates every bite. It’s a simple pleasure that perfectly rounds out this comforting meal.
Explore More Delicious Chili Recipes!
While this Three Bean Chili is a beloved staple, the world of chili is vast and wonderfully varied! Depending on your mood or the occasion, you might find yourself craving a different kind of chili, and that’s perfectly fine because there’s a chili recipe for every palate. The versatility of chili means you can experiment with different meats, beans, spices, and regional styles. From white chicken chili to vegetarian options, the possibilities are endless.
Here are some other fantastic chili recipes that I adore for their unique flavors and memorable profiles:
- Buffalo Chicken Chili: A zesty and spicy twist on traditional chili, perfect for game day.
- White Bean Turkey Chili: A lighter, yet equally satisfying chili with tender turkey and cannellini beans.
- Vegetarian Lentil Chili: A hearty plant-based option packed with nutrients and rich flavor.
- Smoky Beef Brisket Chili: For a truly gourmet experience, slow-cooked brisket adds incredible depth.
Creative Recipe Ideas for Repurposing Leftover Chili
One of the many joys of making a big batch of chili is the delicious leftovers! Beyond simply reheating it (which is always a treat) or freezing it (chili freezes exceptionally well, making it perfect for meal prep), there are countless creative ways to transform your leftover chili into exciting new meals. Chili is remarkably versatile, lending itself to a wide array of culinary reinventions.
You can bet that if I have any chili leftover, my Chili Mac Skillet will undoubtedly make an appearance on our dinner table the following week. It’s a comforting and quick dish that combines the rich chili with cheesy pasta, creating a hearty and family-friendly meal. During grilling season, my Spicy Grilled Cheese Chili Dogs become an absolute must-have. Imagine the perfect blend of a gooey grilled cheese sandwich wrapped around a hot dog, all smothered in spicy chili – pure indulgence! And no matter the time of year, classic Chili Dogs are always a huge hit around here, especially with a generous topping of cheese and onions.
Beyond these favorites, one of my absolute most cherished recipes for leftover chili is my Chili Cheese Bean Dip, which you can see pictured above. This decadent dip is so incredibly addictive; I’m almost ashamed to admit I could devour half of it on my own without a second thought! It’s perfect for parties, game nights, or just a cozy evening in. Other fantastic ideas for repurposing include:
- **Chili Nachos:** Layer chili over tortilla chips with cheese, jalapeños, and your favorite toppings.
- **Chili Baked Potatoes:** A fluffy baked potato piled high with chili, cheese, and sour cream.
- **Chili Stuffed Bell Peppers:** Fill roasted bell peppers with chili and bake until tender.
- **Chili Fries:** Smother crispy fries with warm chili and cheese for an ultimate comfort food snack.
These ideas ensure that not a single spoonful of your delicious homemade chili goes to waste, transforming leftovers into exciting new culinary adventures.
Ready to dive into the savory goodness of this Three Bean Chili? Let’s get cooking! 
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Three Bean Chili
Making chili from scratch is quite simple. My recipe for Three Bean Chili can be prepared on your stovetop in about 90 minutes or slow-cooked in a crockpot all day long. It’s made with ground beef, three kinds of beans, canned tomatoes and my homemade chili seasoning. It’s a classic chili recipe that we have enjoyed for years. Easily catered to the likes and dislikes of spiciness.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 1 hr 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hr 35 mins
- Course: Soup
- Cuisine: American
- Keyword: best beans for making chili, best classic chili recipe, chili with beans, chili with ground beef, crock pot chili, easy, how to make chili from scratch, simple, slow cooker chili, stovetop chili, Three Bean Chili
Servings: 10-12 servings
Calories: 263 kcal
Author: Michaela Kenkel
Equipment
- Lodge 6 Quart Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven. Classic Red Enamel Dutch Oven (Island Spice Red)
Ingredients
- 2 pounds lean ground beef (browned)
- 28 ounce can of crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can of each: Black beans, Dark Red kidney beans and Chili beans
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup onion (chopped, substitute 1/4 cup dry chopped onion)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 Tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon seasoned pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- To amp up the spice: add some cayenne pepper!!
Instructions
- Brown ground beef with some salt and pepper, add your fresh onion if using (if using dry it’s not necessary). Drain any excess grease.
- Dump everything in your crock pot and cook on low 6-8 hours. (or cook on the stove top by simmering for 60-90 minutes)
Nutrition
This recipe was originally posted on December 3, 2014. It was updated to improve user experience and reshared on October 21, 2020.