8 Homemade Vegan Chili Recipes (2024)

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ByTerri Edwards

This post may contain affiliate links.Read my full disclosure here.

The mark of a good veggie chili is that people don’t even notice that there’s no meat. These 8 Homemade Vegan Chili Recipes are just that good. Chock full of veggies, beans, and spices, these recipes are going to rock your plate…or bowl!

If you’ve been hankering for some deliciously healthy vegan chili, these meatless wonders will make you do a happy dance. Some can even be made in a crockpot or slow cooker.

What is vegan chili made of?

There are so many great vegan chili recipes to choose from and most of them have similar ingredients.

  • Beans- We always use beans in our veggie chili recipes to help bulk them up.
  • Veggies- Often time ingredients include onion, garlic, bell peppers, sweet potatoes, and corn.
  • Chiles- For those that like a little spice, chiles are a great option.
  • Tomatoes- Whether it’s fresh tomatoes or canned, nearly all chili recipes include tomatoes.
  • Grain- All of my recipes include bulgur that mimics a ground beef texture. Other gluten-free options are buckwheat groats or brown rice.
  • Chili Powder- A seasoning that is a must in any good chili recipe to add lots of delicious flavor.
  • Spices- Other spices can include season salt, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and smoked paprika.
  • Salsa- It’s a great way to add even more flavor.

Topping ideas

Vegan chili is delicious as is, but these great toppings add even more texture and flavor.

  • Vegan Sour Cream
  • Salsa
  • Lime slices
  • Chives
  • Vegan Cheese
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Sliced avocado
  • Guacamole

What pairs well with veggie chili?

  • Cornbread
  • Baked Tortilla Chips
  • Crusty bread like sourdough
  • Garden salad
  • Corn on the cob

This post may contain affiliate links.Read my full disclosure here.

Pro tips & substitutions

  • Feeding crowds- Chili is a great option for feeding large groups of people because it’s easy to make and inexpensive.
  • Cooking options- Make on the stovetop, in your Instant Pot, or Crock Pot.
  • Storing- Leftovers should be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days.
  • Freezing- Chili freezes well for up to 3-4 months.
  • Substitutions- Beans are a great substitute for ground beef. Bulgur or another grain also help to mimic a beef texture.

Also, be sure to check out our Vegan Chili page for more great recipes!

For those of you new to the whole food plant-based lifestyle, we’ve created a FREE 7-Day Plant-Based Menu Planner to help you get started!

Meatless Vegan Chili Recipes

Ever wondered how to make good old-fashioned chili in a heart-smart healthy way? Get those bowls and spoons ready, and we'll show you! Click on each of the photos, recipe titles, or 'Get the Recipe' buttons to see full recipes with ingredients, measurements, instructions, and a print button.

There is nothing better to warm you up on a cold day than a big bowl of hearty chili, and it’s even better when it can be ready and on the table in minutes without any fuss in the kitchen. This Instant Pot Vegan Chili is easy to make and chock full of healthy wholesome ingredients.

8 Homemade Vegan Chili Recipes (6)

Total Time 4 hours 10 minutes Yield 6 servings

Crock Pot Vegan Chili

Sometime back, I experimented with a new recipe for vegetarian chili in my crockpot. Turned out amazing! A follower even won a cookoff with this delicious 3 bean vegan chili!

8 Homemade Vegan Chili Recipes (7)

Total Time 30 minutes Yield 8 servings

One-Pot Mac Chili

Easy homemade vegan mac chili is made with wholesome ingredients like beans, whole grain pasta, and lots of veggies with warm spices. It simple to make and can be on the table in about 30 minutes.

8 Homemade Vegan Chili Recipes (8)

Total Time 10 minutes Yield 4 servings

Yes-You-Can Black Bean Chili

No meat? No problem! This vegan black bean chili recipe has all the taste of a hearty chili and can be ready to eat in 15-minutes or less. The convenience of a three-ingredient dish without any greasy pans to clean.

8 Homemade Vegan Chili Recipes (9)

Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes Yield 4 servings

Chili Cheese Fries

Vegan Chili Cheese Fries are plant-strongly amazing! Crispy oil-free fries, topped with layers of tangy spicy chili and creamy vegan cheese sauce. The ultimate heart-healthy comfort food!

8 Homemade Vegan Chili Recipes (10)

Total Time 55 minutes Yield 4 servings

White Bean Chili

This White Bean Chili satisfies craving for chili, but cuts out all of the unhealthy ingredients found in many other chili recipes. Loaded with chunks of sweet potatoes, tender white beans, celery, onions, and spices, this dish is sure to keep you full for hours.

8 Homemade Vegan Chili Recipes (11)

Total Time 30 minutes Yield 6 servings

Vegan Chili Recipe for Burgers

If you love carrot/veggie dogs and burgers but miss topping them with chili, I think you're about to do a happy-dance! This quick Chili Vegan Recipe is simmered with spices and onions and can be made in minutes. Links to Vegan Chili Cheese Fries and Black Bean Burgers also included.

8 Homemade Vegan Chili Recipes (12)

Total Time 5 minutes Yield 5 servings

Vegan Bean Dip

This chili bean dip is a flavorful and creamy punch of protein and nutrients! Serve with baked corn chips or veggies for a terrific appetizer or snack. Checkout our cooking demo video above so see how easy this is to prepare.

About Terri Edwards

Hi guys! I am the content creator behind EatPlant-Based and a licensed Food for Life instructor with the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine.I am passionate about sharing healthy recipes and tips to empower others to get healthy. I’m so glad you’re here! Read More…

8 Homemade Vegan Chili Recipes (2024)

FAQs

What is vegan chili made of? ›

This Vegan Chili is a moderately-spiced, tomato-y stew loaded with chunks of celery, onion, green bell pepper, and carrot. Spices like ancho chili powder, cumin, oregano, garlic, and cayenne pepper add some body to the chili, while kidney beans and pinto beans give a hearty and creamy texture.

What is the secret to amazing chili? ›

Elevate your chili recipe by adding an extra layer of flavor. Cocoa powder, bacon, cinnamon, ground coffee and tomato paste will all add a rich sweet & salty flavors that are sure to surprise and delight.

How long does homemade vegan chili last in the fridge? ›

How to store and reheat vegetarian chili. In the refrigerator: this plant-based chili will stay good in your fridge for about 1 week. Once your chili is completely cooled, just place it in an airtight container (or multiple, if you'd like to meal prep it) without the additional toppings and place it in the fridge.

What can I substitute for meat in chili? ›

Let's Talk Vegetarian Chili “Meat”

This vegetarian chili features a hearty mixture of walnuts, mushrooms, and carrots that can beautifully stand in place of your ground beef and absorbs the big flavors of sautéed onion and garlic, diced green chiles, and all those spices.

How do you thicken vegan chili? ›

Stir in some finely ground cornmeal or masa harina.

Start by stirring 1 to 2 tablespoons into your chili, allow the stew to simmer for 5 to 10 minutes more, and it should thicken up a bit. Masa harina (an instantly binding corn flour) also works beautifully to absorb liquid.

Are kidney beans in chilli sauce vegan? ›

Dietary Information

Suitable for: This product is suitable for Vegetarians and This product is suitable for Vegans.

What to add to chili? ›

Here are a few of my favorite ideas.
  1. Cheese. ...
  2. Onions: Sliced green onions or diced red onions go perfectly with chili. ...
  3. Jalapeños: If you like spice, diced fresh or pickled jalapeños are delicious here.
  4. Sour cream. ...
  5. Cilantro or parsley: Just a sprinkle of chopped herbs gives a nice pop of freshness and flavor.
Dec 15, 2023

What to serve with veggie chili? ›

Discover 16 of our best side dishes to serve with chili.
  • 01 of 15. Sweet Jalapeno Cornbread. ...
  • 02 of 15. Broccoli-Cauliflower Salad. ...
  • 03 of 15. Savory Roasted Root Vegetables. ...
  • 04 of 15. Perfect Baked Potato. ...
  • 05 of 15. Ann's Dirty Rice. ...
  • 06 of 15. Cornbread Muffins I. ...
  • 07 of 15. Loaded Tater Tots. ...
  • 08 of 15. Creamy Spiced Coleslaw.
Feb 27, 2020

Does homemade chili taste better the next day? ›

Chili tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had some time to meld together. Be sure to make a big batch that will leave you with plenty of leftovers. (It freezes well too.)

What to add when chili is missing something? ›

Secret Ingredients

for a rich flavor, depth addition try espresso powder (finely ground coffee), cocoa powder, or cinnamon. Liquid Smoke is also a great flavor addition for some deep special flavor! many people will add a shot of bourbon, beer, sherry, or brandy for a smooth edge with a little kick in the bite.

What is the most flavorful meat for chili? ›

The best meat for chili depends on the type you're making, but professionals generally use a combination of ground chuck, brisket, short ribs, or diced tri-tip sirloin mixed with bacon and sausage to layer multiple textures and flavors.

What is the fake meat called? ›

A meat substitute, also called a meat analogue, approximates certain aesthetic qualities (primarily texture, flavor and appearance) or chemical characteristics of a specific meat. Substitutes are often based on soybeans (such as tofu and tempeh), gluten, or peas.

Is plant based chili good for you? ›

In this post, we'll discuss some of the health benefits of WFPB chili and tips for making the perfect batch at home. High in Nutrients: One of the main benefits of vegan chili is that it is packed with nutrients. Beans, which are a staple ingredient in vegan chili, are a great source of plant-based protein and fiber.

What is no bean chili made of? ›

Easy No Bean Chili

Ground beef, onions or shallots, and garlic are browned then simmered with tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, fire roasted tomatoes, beef stock, and green chilis, plus herbs, spices, and seasonings for just 20 minutes. If you love classic chili, you will LOVE this easy no bean recipe.

What is chili made of? ›

What is chili? Chili, also referred to as chili con carne is a hearty beef stew made with spices, peppers, meat, tomatoes, and beans (in some cases). Most homemade chili recipes are made up of the same basic ingredients like ground beef, onion, spices, beans, and some type of tomato product.

Is Amy's organic chili vegan? ›

Our Medium Chili is made from organic red beans and tofu simmered in a thick and flavorful Mexican-style broth. For those who want big chili flavor without the big heat. Gluten free/dairy free/lactose free/tree nut free/vegan/kosher/plant based (Light in Sodium also available).

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