Print

Hearty One-Pot Black Bean Chili for Busy Weeknights

Close-up of a white bowl filled with rich, thick black bean chili featuring visible corn kernels and tomatoes.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This easy, one-pot black bean chili delivers deep, smoky flavor and is ready fast, making it perfect for your weeknight dinner rotation. It is a filling, wholesome meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 (15-ounce) cans black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained (optional, for three bean chili variation)
  • 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained
  • 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Cook the spices for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast them.
  4. Add the rinsed black beans, kidney beans (if using), corn, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir everything together well.
  5. Bring the chili to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot partially, and let it cook for at least 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld.
  6. Taste the chili and add salt and black pepper as needed.
  7. Serve hot with your favorite toppings. This is a great healthy black bean dinner option.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, simmer the chili for 45 minutes.
  • To make this recipe vegan, confirm your vegetable broth is plant-based.
  • Top this comfort food chili with shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, or fresh cilantro for added texture.
  • This recipe is excellent for meal prep and freezes well.

Nutrition