White Bean Chili Bowl

Name: White Bean Chili Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans of white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon chili powder; 4 cups vegetable broth; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro and lime for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I recently discovered the joys of making a hearty White Bean Chili Bowl, and it has quickly become one of my go-to recipes for chilly nights. The combination of creamy white beans, zesty seasonings, and fresh toppings creates a comforting meal that's both satisfying and nourishing. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also allows for customization to suit everyone's taste. Whether I'm enjoying it solo or serving it to friends, I love how this dish brings people together around the table.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-23T14:14:19.253Z

When I first made this White Bean Chili Bowl, I was pleasantly surprised by how flavorful it turned out. The key is to let the spices simmer with the beans, which enhances their creaminess and brings out the rich flavors. I often garnish it with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime, which adds a bright finish that really elevates the dish. This recipe has become a family favorite, and I love serving it during our cozy movie nights.

During my cooking adventures, I’ve found that using smoked paprika gives the chili a wonderful depth without having to use meat. I also make sure to use high-quality white beans, as they contribute to the overall texture and taste of the dish. If you’re looking for something delicious and easy to whip up, give this recipe a try—your taste buds will thank you!

Reasons to Love This Recipe
Creamy white beans with a perfect spice blend
Easy to customize with your favorite toppings
Healthy and satisfying for any meal

Ingredient Insight

The white beans are the star of this chili bowl, providing a creamy texture and a subtle nutty flavor. I prefer using cannellini or navy beans for their smooth consistency, which helps create a rich base for the dish. If you don’t have canned beans on hand, dried beans can be substituted. Just soak and cook them before adding to the pot, bearing in mind that they will require additional cooking time to reach the same softness.

Don’t overlook the importance of spices in this recipe. Ground cumin delivers a warm earthiness, while smoked paprika adds a complex depth, reminiscent of traditional chili flavors. If you prefer a milder chili, you can reduce the chili powder or replace it with a pinch of crushed red pepper for a hint of heat without overwhelming the dish. Experimenting with spice levels can lead to your very own signature flavor profile!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

When sautéing the vegetables, aim for medium heat to avoid browning the onions too quickly. They should become translucent, softening rather than caramelizing, which allows the garlic and spices to shine in the dish. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The right texture of the sautéed vegetables enhances the overall mouthfeel of the soup, contributing to a balanced experience with every spoonful.

Simmering the chili for about 20 minutes is crucial for allowing the flavors to meld. Keep the pot at a gentle simmer; a rolling boil may cause the beans to break apart. If you notice the broth getting too thick, add a bit more vegetable broth or water to maintain a soup-like consistency. This step also helps the spices infuse throughout the dish, creating that comforting harmony of flavors.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients for White Bean Chili Bowl

2 cans of white beans, drained and rinsed
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
4 cups vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro and lime for garnish

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make the White Bean Chili Bowl:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and stir for another minute until fragrant.

Add the Beans and Spices

Stir in the rinsed white beans, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Mix well to coat the beans with the spices.

Pour in the Broth

Add the vegetable broth to the pot and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the chili in bowls, garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for added brightness.

Enjoy your hearty White Bean Chili Bowl!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding some diced tomatoes or corn to the chili. This dish also freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep!

Serving Suggestions

This White Bean Chili Bowl is versatile when it comes to toppings. You can serve it with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess. Chopped avocado adds richness and healthy fats, while shredded cheese can bring in delightful flavor. For a crunchy element, try topping with tortilla chips or fresh radishes, which also provide a splash of color.

Serving the chili with a side of crusty bread or cornbread allows for a more filling meal and is perfect for mopping up any leftover broth. You could even pair it with a simple green salad to balance the richness of the chili. These combinations elevate the dining experience and offer a range of textures and flavors.

Make-Ahead and Storage

One of the great advantages of this White Bean Chili is that it stores beautifully. You can prepare it a day in advance and let it sit in the fridge; this actually allows the flavors to develop even further. Just be sure to cool it to room temperature before refrigerating in an airtight container, which will keep it fresh for up to 4 days.

If you’re looking to freeze leftovers, portion the chili into freezer-safe bags or containers, squeezing out as much air as possible before sealing. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if it looks too thick.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, just be sure to soak and cook them according to package instructions before adding them to the recipe.

→ How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to increase the heat level.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, all the ingredients are plant-based, making it a great vegan option.

→ What can I serve with this chili?

Top it with avocado slices, tortilla chips, or your favorite hot sauce for extra flavor.