Three Bean Chili
A hearty and flavorful three bean chili featuring a rich tomato and gravy base, spiced with chili powder and complemented by a variety of beans and green chilies. Perfect for satisfying cravings and suitable for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners, offering comforting, spicy goodness in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the gravy, tomatoes, and chili powder in a 3-quart saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then stir in the beans and chilies.
- Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve with toppings such as yogurt or sour cream, sliced green onions, and shredded cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing onions and garlic before combining with the gravy and tomatoes. You can substitute the spicy chili beans with regular chili beans for a milder dish. If you prefer more heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne. This recipe is also great for meal prep, as the flavors deepen over time.
Serving Suggestions
This Three Bean Chili is perfect served with toppings like yogurt or sour cream, sliced green onions, and shredded cheese. It pairs beautifully with Jalapeno Rice or can be enjoyed with crusty bread for dipping. For a full meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or as part of a Taco Plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm the chili in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Three Bean Chili contains roughly 286 calories, with 10g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1626mg per serving (71% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegetarian since it features beans and vegetables. Just ensure your gravy is vegetarian-friendly, and you can enjoy a hearty vegetarian chili. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra nutrition.
How can I thicken my chili?
If you find your chili too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a few more minutes to allow some liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, mash a portion of the beans before adding them, or stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water for a quick thickening solution.
Can this chili be frozen?
Yes, this chili freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).