Two Bean Chili
A hearty and flavorful two bean chili featuring smoky beans, tender vegetables, and warm chili spices. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this dish offers a comforting blend of textures and flavors that appeal to both meat-eaters and vegetarians alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine chopped onion and chopped green bell pepper in a 2-quart microwave casserole; cover.
- Microwave on High for 2 minutes or until tender. Stir in the remaining ingredients including tomato liquid.
- Microwave on High for 10 to 12 minutes or until heated thoroughly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing the onion and green bell pepper in a skillet with a bit of olive oil before microwaving. You can substitute the pork and beans with vegetarian beans for a meatless option. If you like it spicier, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. This chili pairs wonderfully with Cheesy Enchiladas for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili hot, garnished with your choice of toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro. It makes a great dish for potlucks or game day, and pairs well with crusty bread or tortilla chips. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it alongside Easy Burritos or a fresh salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated thoroughly. You can also freeze the chili in portions for up to 3 months for quick meals later.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Two Bean Chili contains roughly 485 calories, with 15g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (100% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (61% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 940mg per serving (41% 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 use dried beans instead of canned beans?
Yes, you can use dried beans; just soak and cook them beforehand according to package instructions. This will require additional time but can enhance the texture and flavor of your chili.
How can I make this chili vegetarian?
To make this chili vegetarian, simply replace the pork and beans with a combination of black beans and pinto beans or any other favorite beans. Ensure the vegetable broth used is vegetarian-friendly for optimal flavor.
What can I do if my chili is too thick?
If your chili is too thick, you can add a bit of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Stir thoroughly and microwave for an additional minute to heat through.
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).