Bean Chili Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that’s warm, hearty, and packed with flavor, then Bean Chili Soup is a perfect choice. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re simply craving something filling, this comforting soup brings the heartiness of a chili with the richness of beans, all in one bowl. What makes this dish even better is its versatility. You can make it as spicy as you like, add in some extra veggies, or even play with the types of beans used, making it adaptable to your personal taste preferences.

The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity. With just a few pantry staples, a little chopping, and some time on the stove, you can create a meal that feels indulgent without being overly complicated. So, whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or a large batch to feed a crowd, this Bean Chili Soup will surely hit the spot.

A warming, filling meal that combines the richness of beans, the depth of chili spices, and a burst of vegetables all simmered together to create a dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious. The best part? It’s a one-pot wonder, so cleanup is a breeze!

Ingredients Needed

Here’s a list of everything you’ll need for this recipe. Keep in mind, while the ingredients are simple, the combination creates a depth of flavor that’s truly special.

1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing and adding richness.
1 large onion – Diced, for a slight sweetness and aromatic base.
3 cloves garlic – Minced, for a punch of flavor.
2 bell peppers – Diced, use any color you prefer for added color and texture.
2 medium carrots – Peeled and diced, adding a slight sweetness and a pop of color.
2 cans (15 oz each) of beans – You can mix and match types like kidney beans, black beans, or pinto beans.
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes – For that tangy tomato flavor that brings the soup together.
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth – This will be the base of your soup, so choose one that aligns with your dietary preferences.
2 teaspoons chili powder – The key spice that gives this soup its characteristic kick.
1 teaspoon cumin – Adds an earthy flavor and depth.
1 teaspoon paprika – Smoky and slightly sweet.
Salt and pepper to taste – Seasoning is crucial in bringing out the flavors of the soup.
Fresh cilantro (optional) – For garnish, adding freshness and color.

Cooking Instructions

Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large pot. Add the diced onions, bell peppers, and carrots, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until they begin to soften and the onions are translucent. The aroma will be delightful-this is the flavor-building stage!
Add garlic and spices: Add the minced garlic to the pot, followed by the chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Stir well and let everything cook together for 1-2 minutes. This will allow the spices to release their flavors, creating a fragrant base for your soup.
Add beans and tomatoes: Next, toss in the cans of beans (drained and rinsed) and the diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir to combine, letting all the ingredients meld together.
Pour in the broth: Add the broth to the pot and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook on low for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. During this time, the flavors will deepen, and the soup will thicken slightly.
Season to taste: Taste the soup and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. If you want more heat, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes.
Serve and garnish: Once the soup has thickened to your liking and the flavors have melded together, ladle it into bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream for an added touch of creaminess.

Ingredient Insights

Beans: The star ingredient of this soup, beans provide both texture and protein. You can use any variety of beans, but a mix of black beans, kidney beans, and pinto beans works wonders in terms of flavor and mouthfeel. If you’re looking to add more fiber to the dish, kidney beans are particularly high in it.
Bell Peppers: Not only do bell peppers add vibrant color, but they also bring a mild sweetness to balance the spices in the soup. Using a combination of red and yellow peppers can give your soup a stunning appearance.
Carrots: These are the unsung heroes of many soups. They’re not just there for color-they also add a natural sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory broth and spices.
Chili Powder: The chili powder blend you use will determine the overall taste of your soup. Look for a mild blend for a more balanced flavor, or a hotter one for a spicier kick.
Broth: Using a good-quality broth is crucial. If you have the time, homemade broth can take this soup to the next level, but store-bought will work just fine.

Expert Tips

Use dried beans: If you have the time, swap canned beans for dried beans. Just be sure to soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to the soup. This can improve the flavor and texture, plus it’s a bit more cost-effective.
Spice it up: If you’re a fan of heat, add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce when you add the garlic. The chili powder gives it a mild heat, but you can easily kick things up a notch.
Let it sit: Like many stews and soups, this dish gets better with time. If you have the time, let it sit for a few hours (or even overnight) so the flavors can marry together.
Make it creamy: For a creamier texture, you can blend part of the soup with an immersion blender. This will give the soup a smooth base with some hearty chunks still intact.

Recipe Variations

Vegetarian or Vegan: This recipe is naturally vegetarian and can be made vegan by choosing vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omitting any dairy-based garnishes.
Add Meat: For those who prefer a meaty chili, you can add ground beef, turkey, or chicken. Brown the meat first, and then follow the same steps for the rest of the recipe.
Add Corn: Throw in some frozen or fresh corn kernels for a touch of sweetness and crunch that complements the beans perfectly.
Spicy Version: If you like your chili on the hotter side, consider adding chipotle peppers in adobo sauce or a few dashes of hot sauce to the soup for a smoky kick.

Final Words

What makes Bean Chili Soup so wonderful is how customizable it is. It’s easy to adapt to what you have in your pantry, your taste preferences, or dietary restrictions. The balance between the spices, beans, and veggies creates a comfort food that feels both indulgent and healthy.

This dish also makes for fantastic leftovers-sometimes, the soup is even better the next day when all the flavors have had time to mingle and develop further. It freezes well too, so you can make a big batch and enjoy it for weeks to come.

Bean Chili Soup Recipe