Easy Black Bean Chili

Why you’ll love it

This meaty, hearty ground beef chili with black beans is a great weeknight meal since it’s ready in just 40 minutes. There’s nothing complicated about it, and I always have the tasty seasonings in my pantry. It’s also great for Sunday football or for any game day!

I like how customizable this bean and beef chili is. You can change the heat level to suit your tastes, add as few or as many toppings as you like, etc. There’s nothing like the irresistible smell of this hearty and filling chili as it simmers. It also makes meal prep a breeze.

What you’ll need

• Olive oil – for sautéing
• Onion – I like using sweet (Vidalia) onion
• Ground beef – we’re using lean
• Garlic – for plenty of garlicky flavor
• Tomato paste – it adds concentrated savory taste
• Seasoning – we’re using a trio of chili powder, ground cumin, and smoked paprika
• Canned goods – black beans, fire-roasted tomatoes, and mild green chilies are pantry staples
• Red bell pepper – for a pop of freshness
• Beef broth – it makes up the base of the sauce and adds another layer of flavor

How to make black bean chili

This is an overview with step-by-step photos. Full ingredients & instructions are in the recipe card below.

In a large pot, sauté the onion in the oil, then add the beef and brown it, breaking it up with your spoon as you go along. Spoon out any excess fat. Stir in the garlic, tomato paste, and spices.

Add the beans, tomatoes, chilies, red bell pepper, and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for at least 15 minutes. Season with salt & pepper, and top as desired.

Substitutions and variations

• This chili is very flexible. You can skip an ingredient, add what’s in your fridge, use regular diced tomatoes instead, etc.
• You don’t need to be super precise with the beef amount. Anything from 1 to 1.5 pounds of ground beef will work.
• If you want to give this chili some kick, add some cayenne pepper or use spicy green chilis.