Cook Like a Pro: 12 Best Vegetarian Chili Recipes to Try This Week

Written by Veronica E. Rogers in Dinner

If you’re looking to elevate your dinner game, these 12 vegetarian chili recipes are a fantastic place to start. Each dish brings its own unique flavor profile, from classic three-bean varieties to exciting twists like Thai red curry. Whether you prefer something hearty or light, there’s a chili here to satisfy your cravings. So, which recipe will you try first? The answer might surprise you.

Classic Three-Bean Vegetarian Chili

Get ready to warm your soul with this hearty and flavorful Classic Three-Bean Vegetarian Chili!

Ingredients:

  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: avocado, cilantro, cheese, sour cream

How to Make:

  1. In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and bell pepper, sautéing until they soften, about 5 minutes.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Toss in the chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, mixing well to coat the veggies.
  4. Add the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, and all three types of beans. Stir it up!
  5. Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  7. Serve hot, topped with your favorite garnishes like avocado or cilantro!

Dig into this delicious chili and let the flavors take you on a cozy adventure!

Spicy Black Bean Chili With Quinoa

Spice up your meal with this hearty Spicy Black Bean Chili With Quinoa!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Optional toppings: avocado, cilantro, shredded cheese, lime wedges

How to Make:

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic, and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the rinsed quinoa, black beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, cayenne, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
  4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and has absorbed most of the broth.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.
  6. Serve hot, topped with your favorite garnishes like avocado, cilantro, cheese, or a squeeze of lime for an extra zing!

Enjoy a bowl of warmth and flavor that will leave you craving more!

Sweet Potato and Lentil Chili

Get ready to warm your soul with this hearty Sweet Potato and Lentil Chili, packed with flavor and goodness!

Ingredients:

  • 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
  • 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color you prefer)
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for sautéing
  • Fresh cilantro or avocado for garnish (optional)

How to Make:

  1. In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
  2. Toss in the diced sweet potato and bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Add the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes, black beans, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir!
  4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 30-35 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes and lentils are tender.
  5. If the chili is too thick, feel free to add a bit more vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
  6. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or avocado if you like.

Dig into this deliciousness and enjoy the cozy vibes in every spoonful!

Smoky Chipotle Vegetarian Chili

Spice up your dinner with this delightful Smoky Chipotle Vegetarian Chili that packs a flavorful punch!

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
  • 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
  • Avocado slices, for serving (optional)

How to Make:

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic, bell pepper, carrots, and celery, cooking for another 5 minutes until softened.
  4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, and corn; stir to combine.
  5. Add the chopped chipotle peppers, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  6. Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed; feel free to add more chipotle for extra heat!
  8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and avocado slices if you like.

Dig into this smoky, hearty chili that’s sure to warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds! Enjoy!

White Bean and Kale Chili

Warm up your taste buds with this hearty White Bean and Kale Chili—perfect for cozy nights in!

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups kale, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

How to Make:

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for another 5 minutes until the veggies start to soften.
  3. Sprinkle in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the vegetable broth, followed by the white beans and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil.
  5. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
  6. Stir in the chopped kale and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the kale is wilted and tender.
  7. Season with salt, pepper, and lime juice to taste.
  8. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Dig in and enjoy this comforting bowl of goodness—your body and taste buds will thank you!

Mediterranean-Inspired Chickpea Chili

Ingredients:

  • 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish
  • Crumbled feta cheese (optional)

How to Make:

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic and red bell pepper, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add the diced zucchini, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until it starts to soften.
  4. Toss in the drained chickpeas, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. If you prefer a thicker chili, let it simmer a little longer.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and crumbled feta cheese, if desired.

Dig into this Mediterranean-inspired delight and enjoy a bowl full of goodness!

Pumpkin and Black Bean Chili

Warm up your taste buds with this hearty and delicious Pumpkin and Black Bean Chili!

Ingredients:

  • 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for sautéing
  • Optional toppings: avocado, cilantro, sour cream, or cheese

How to Make:

  1. Heat a splash of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing until they soften (about 5 minutes).
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the pumpkin puree, diced tomatoes, and black beans, mixing everything together.
  5. Add the vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
  6. Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
  8. Serve hot, topped with your favorite garnishes.

Enjoy this cozy bowl of pumpkin and black bean chili that’s perfect for any chilly day!

Thai Red Curry Vegetarian Chili

Spice up your chili game with this vibrant Thai Red Curry Vegetarian Chili!

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons red curry paste
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

How to Make:

  1. Heat coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Toss in the red bell pepper and zucchini, cooking for about 5 minutes until softened.
  5. Add the diced tomatoes, chickpeas, and coconut milk to the pot.
  6. Stir in the red curry paste, soy sauce, and lime juice. Mix well to combine.
  7. Bring the chili to a gentle simmer, then cover and let it cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  8. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
  9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Get ready to enjoy a bowl of bold flavors that will warm your soul!

Hearty Vegetable and Barley Chili

Get ready for a cozy bowl of Hearty Vegetable and Barley Chili that’s packed with flavor and nutrients!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup pearl barley
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 bell peppers, diced (any color)
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

How to Make:

  1. Rinse the pearl barley under cold water and set it aside.
  2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  3. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Stir in the garlic, bell peppers, carrots, and celery, cooking for another 5 minutes until softened.
  5. Toss in the zucchini and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
  6. Add the rinsed barley, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, kidney beans, black beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
  7. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the barley is tender.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired.

Dig into this delicious and hearty chili that’s sure to warm your soul! Enjoy!

Sweet Corn and Zucchini Chili

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium zucchinis, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (any color you like)
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

How to Make:

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion and sauté until it’s soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic, diced zucchini, and bell pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes until the veggies are tender.
  4. Toss in the black beans, kidney beans, corn, and crushed tomatoes.
  5. Add the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
  6. Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

Dig into this vibrant chili that’s bursting with flavor and goodness—perfect for any cozy night!

Loaded Vegetarian Chili With Avocado

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 zucchini, chopped
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish
  • Lime wedges, for serving

How to Make:

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant and onion is translucent.
  3. Toss in the bell pepper, carrots, and celery, stirring for about 5 minutes until they soften.
  4. Add the zucchini and cook for another 3 minutes.
  5. Stir in the black beans, kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  6. Bring the chili to a simmer and let it cook for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  8. Serve hot, garnished with diced avocado, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.

Get ready to plunge into this delicious bowl of goodness!

Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili With Cornbread Topping

Get ready for a cozy night in with this hearty Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili topped with a delightful cornbread crust!

Ingredients:

*For the Chili:*

  • 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cornbread Topping:

  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup milk (or plant-based milk)
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 egg (or flax egg for vegan option)

How to Make:

  1. In your slow cooker, combine the black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, garlic, corn, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  2. Give everything a good stir to mix it all together nicely.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
  4. About 30 minutes before serving, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for the cornbread topping.
  5. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  6. In another bowl, combine the milk, vegetable oil, and egg, then mix it into the dry ingredients until just combined.
  7. Pour the cornbread batter over the chili in the slow cooker, spreading it evenly.
  8. Transfer the slow cooker insert to the oven (if it’s oven-safe) or pour the chili into a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cornbread is golden and cooked through.
  9. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving, then dig in!

This deliciously comforting chili with its cornbread topping is the perfect way to warm up any day! Enjoy!

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