Fresh Mexican Bean Chili

Veggie • 30 Min • Budget

A comforting, richly seasoned Mexican-style Bean Chili made entirely from budget-friendly pantry ingredients. This recipe comes together in about 25 minutes, delivers a deep, satisfying flavor, and stretches beautifully for meal prep or family dinners.

• 1 tbsp oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb ground beef or 1 can (540 ml) lentils for a low-cost vegetarian option
• 1 can (796 ml) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (540 ml) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (540 ml) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup water or broth

• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp oregano
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Optional heat: pinch of cayenne or chopped jalapeño

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges

• Rice
• Tortilla chips
• Sour cream
• Shredded cheese

1. Sauté aromatics

Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add onion and sauté 3–4 minutes until soft.
Stir in garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.

2. Brown the beef (or warm lentils)

Add ground beef and cook 5–6 minutes, breaking it apart until lightly browned.
If using lentils, simply add them with the tomatoes in the next step.

3. Add beans, tomatoes & seasoning

Stir in crushed tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, water (or broth), and all seasoning.
Mix well to combine.

4. Simmer

Bring to a gentle simmer and cook 10–12 minutes until thickened and flavorful.
Taste and adjust salt, spices, or heat.

5. Finish

Remove from heat and top with fresh cilantro.
Serve with lime wedges.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board & knife
• Wooden spoon

• Protein swap: Replace beef with lentils or canned chickpeas for a lower-cost version.
• Add vegetables: Corn, bell pepper, carrots, or zucchini work well.
• Make it spicier: Add cayenne, chili flakes, or jalapeño.
• Thicker chili: Simmer uncovered longer or mash a few beans into the pot.
• Stretch the meal: Serve over rice to make 6–8 generous portions.

• Refrigerator: Up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Up to 3 months (excellent for freezing).
• Reheat: Warm on the stove with a splash of water if needed.

• Made entirely from affordable pantry ingredients
• Big flavor with minimal effort
• High protein & filling
• Perfect for meal prep
• Easy to customize and freeze

You may also enjoy our Thai Peanut Noodles, try the Budget Tuna Pasta, or go for a Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken.