Can I make pinto bean chili without meat?

Absolutely! This pinto bean chili recipe works perfectly as a meatless meal. Simply skip the ground beef and load up on extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or sweet potatoes. The beans provide enough protein and texture to make it hearty on their own. If you want extra depth, try adding a bit of smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a savory kick.

Do I need to soak pinto beans before making chili?

Yes, if you're using dried beans, soaking them helps reduce cook time and improves their texture. In this pinto bean chili recipe, a quick-soak method brings beans to a boil and then lets them rest for an hour before draining. It’s simple and ensures your beans cook evenly and absorb the chili flavors fully.

What spices are best for pinto bean chili?

A balanced pinto bean chili recipe usually includes chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and sometimes a hint of sugar to round out the heat. You can also enhance the flavor with smoked paprika, crushed red pepper, or oregano. Start mild and adjust as the chili simmers—dried pinto beans soak up seasoning gradually, so a final taste test is key.

Can I freeze leftover pinto bean chili?

Definitely. This pinto bean chili recipe freezes very well. Let it cool completely before storing it in airtight containers or freezer bags. It keeps for up to 3 months and reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or microwave.

How do I thicken pinto bean chili?

This pinto bean chili recipe uses flour mixed into the beef during browning, which naturally thickens the chili as it simmers. You can also mash a small portion of the beans in the pot with a spoon or masher. This thickens the base without affecting flavor and keeps the chili gluten-free if you skip the flour.

What toppings go best with pinto bean chili?

Toppings are where you can get creative. For this pinto bean chili recipe, try sour cream, shredded cheddar, sliced jalapeños, green onions, crushed tortilla chips, or fresh cilantro. These extras add texture and bring out the warm, smoky flavors of the chili. For something fun, serve with a twist like my taco ranch bites in phyllo cups for a playful party pairing.

Pinto Bean Chili Recipe — Best Recipe & Tips (2025)

Description

This pinto bean chili recipe is a hearty, from-scratch favorite made with dried beans, ground beef, and bold spices. It’s perfect for cozy dinners, freezer meals, or game day comfort food.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound dried pinto beans
2 pounds ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
3 celery ribs, chopped
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
4 cups water
2 tablespoons chili powder
2 tablespoons ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
2 teaspoons cider vinegar
1–1/2 teaspoons salt
Optional toppings: corn, chopped red onion, jalapeño slices, sour cream

Everything you need for a hearty pinto bean chili

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Instructions

Place beans in a Dutch oven and cover with water by 2 inches. Bring to a boil for 2 minutes. Remove from heat, cover, and soak for 1 hour. Drain and rinse beans.
In the same pot, cook the ground beef, onion, and celery over medium heat until beef is browned and vegetables are tender. Drain fat.
Stir in the flour and mix until evenly coated.
Gradually stir in the water. Return the beans to the pot along with chili powder, cumin, and sugar. Bring to a boil.
Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until beans are tender.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, vinegar, and salt. Simmer uncovered for another 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Steps for making the perfect pinto bean chili

Notes

For a vegetarian version, omit the beef and add extra vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.

Freeze leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Let the chili rest for 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to deepen.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1.5 cups
Calories: 465 kcal
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 769mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 12g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 70mg