When the chill of autumn starts to fill the air, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of chili simmering on the stove. This Classic White Bean Beef Chili goes beyond the ordinary, offering a hearty twist that warms both the body and soul. I discovered this delightful recipe during a cozy evening spent at home, searching for something different than the typical red chili. The creamy cannellini beans meld beautifully with tender ground beef, creating a satisfying texture that’s perfect for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead.

With just one pot required, this dish not only delivers deep, rich flavors but also simplifies cleanup—a win in any busy kitchen! The best part? You can easily customize it with your favorite toppings, ensuring that every bowl is uniquely yours. Join me as we dive into this comforting classic that promises to make dinner exciting again, one hearty spoonful at a time.

Why is White Bean Beef Chili a Must-Try?

Comfort Food Redefined: This recipe takes your traditional chili and elevates it into something special, combining creamy cannellini beans with savory ground beef.

Effortless One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup makes it a breeze to whip up on busy weeknights.

Flavorful Depth: Achieve rich, complex flavors that develop beautifully as you simmer.

Customizable Toppings: Top with your favorites like cheese, cilantro, or sour cream to create a unique twist for every serving.

Family-Friendly Appeal: Perfect for hungry bellies, this hearty dish will satisfy everyone at the table!

Discover more ways to delight your family with other delicious one-pot meals in our collection!

White Bean Beef Chili Ingredients

For the Chili Base
• 45 oz cannellini beans – Provides creaminess and protein. Drain and rinse before use.
• 1 medium yellow onion – Adds sweetness and depth. Can substitute with a white onion.
• 3 garlic cloves – Enhances aroma and flavor. Use more or less depending on preference.
• 8 oz chopped green chiles – Brings mild heat and complexity. Substitute with jalapeños for extra spiciness.
• 1 tbsp ground cumin – Gives warm earthiness. Freshly ground is recommended for better flavor.
• 4 cups chicken broth – Provides a savory base. Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option.
• 1/4 tsp salt – Enhances overall flavor. Adjust to taste.
• 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend) – Main protein source; provides flavor and moisture. Can substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option; retain some fat for moisture.
• 1 tbsp dried oregano – Adds herbaceous notes. Fresh oregano can be used for a brighter flavor.
• 1/4 tsp white pepper – Offers a mild spice. Black pepper works as a substitute.
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon – Deepens the flavor with warmth. Can omit if desired.
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper – Adds heat; adjust to taste. Reduce or omit for less spice.

For the Toppings
• 1.5 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese – Adds richness and creaminess. Can replace with cheddar for a sharper flavor.
• Fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish) – Brightens the dish. Parsley can be used as an alternative.
• Sour cream (for dolloping) – Creamy topping to balance heat. Greek yogurt can be a healthier substitute.

How to Make White Bean Beef Chili

Brown the Beef: Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Cook the ground beef for 8-10 minutes until it’s well-browned; drain excess fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pot to enhance flavor.
Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic for an additional minute until fragrant, creating a delicious base.
Bloom Spices: Return the browned beef to the pot. Sprinkle in the cumin, oregano, cinnamon, salt, white pepper, and cayenne. Stir for 1-2 minutes to bloom the spices, letting their flavors come alive.
Combine Ingredients: Mix in the chopped green chiles; cook for another 3-4 minutes. Then, add the drained cannellini beans and mash about half to thicken the chili and give it that creamy texture.
Simmer Chili: Pour in the chicken broth; bring the mixture to a simmer. After 3-4 minutes, stir in the shredded cheese until melted, and simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes until you reach your desired consistency.
Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls. Top generously with sour cream, remaining cheese, and chopped cilantro. Don’t forget to customize with your favorite toppings for extra flavor!

Optional: Add diced avocado or green onions for a fresh crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for White Bean Beef Chili

Fridge: Store your White Bean Beef Chili in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Portion leftovers into freezer-safe bags or containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth if it’s too thick!
Thawing: For best results, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, or you can heat directly from frozen, adjusting timing as needed.

What to Serve with White Bean Beef Chili?

Warm up your dinner table with delightful pairings that enhance the comforting vibes of your chili.

Warm Cornbread: The slightly sweet and buttery cornbread perfectly balances the hearty richness of the chili, making it an irresistible combo.
Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips offer a fun textural contrast and are perfect for dipping into the creamy chili.
Mexican Rice: Serve your chili over fluffy Mexican rice to create a fulfilling meal that’ll satisfy even the hungriest appetites.
Avocado Slices: Fresh avocado adds a creamy, rich element that cuts through the chili’s spices, providing a delicious creamy bite.
Diced Jalapeños: For those who crave a kick, a sprinkle of diced jalapeños can elevate the flavors and add an exciting spice to every spoonful.
Shredded Cheese Topping Bar: Set up a cheese topping bar with a variety of choices like cheddar, pepper jack, or even queso fresco for customized bowls.
Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of cilantro brightens up the chili with herbal freshness and enhances each bite’s flavor profile.

Pair these sides with your White Bean Beef Chili for a cozy, perfect dinner that wraps you in warmth and satisfaction!

Make Ahead Options

These White Bean Beef Chili preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can chop the onions, garlic, and green chiles up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to enhance efficiency. Additionally, the cannellini beans can be rinsed and prepped ahead of time. When you’re ready to cook, simply brown the ground beef and add the previously chopped ingredients along with the spices, beans, and broth. Remember to taste and adjust seasonings after reheating for just as delicious results! With these simple steps, you’ll have a hearty, comforting meal ready for busy weeknights.

Expert Tips for White Bean Beef Chili

Avoid Greasiness: Drain excess fat after browning the beef to keep your chili from becoming overly greasy.
Cheese Control: Add cheese gradually on low heat to ensure it melts smoothly without clumping in your White Bean Beef Chili.
Bean Technique: Mashing half of the cannellini beans helps thicken the chili, giving it a creamy texture that enhances its comforting nature.
Spice It Up: Toast your spices for about 5 minutes before adding the beans for an extra boost of flavor that will make your chili irresistible.
Simmer Time: Allow the chili to simmer longer for deeper flavors; the longer it simmers, the more cohesive and enriched the taste becomes.

White Bean Beef Chili Variations

Feel free to add your own twist to this comforting dish and make it truly your own.

Dairy-Free: Substitute cheese and sour cream with avocado or cashew cream for a creamy touch without dairy.
Evoking the same richness, this swap allows everyone to enjoy a bowl, irrespective of dietary restrictions.
Lean Protein: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter alternative.
This twist keeps all the hearty flavors while making it a healthier option everyone can appreciate!
Extra Beans: Mix in pinto or black beans along with the cannellini for pop and variation in flavor.
By adding more beans, you not only enhance texture but also pump up the protein!
Spicy Kick: Replace the chopped green chiles with jalapeños or add more cayenne for an extra kick.
Bring the heat and watch your family enjoy a fiery version of this classic chili!
Vegetarian Delight: Use lentils or a mix of your favorite beans instead of meat to create a hearty vegetarian chili.
This alternative will surprise you with its depth and flavor, keeping it satisfying without the beef.
Sweet Crunch: Add corn or diced bell peppers for a lovely sweet crunch that complements the creamy beans.
The colorful addition brightens up your dish and adds an appealing texture contrast.
Herb Boost: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or basil in place of dried oregano for vibrancy and freshness.
Herbs can transform the flavor profile and elevate your chili to a gourmet experience.
Smoky Flavor: Introduce smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke for a deeper, smoky flavor.
This minor adjustment can transport your classic chili into a whole new culinary realm!

White Bean Beef Chili Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right cannellini beans for my chili?
Absolutely! When selecting cannellini beans, look for ones that are plump, creamy, and free from any dark spots. If you’re using canned beans, make sure they don’t contain added preservatives. Rinsing and draining them is essential to remove excess sodium and improve the flavor profile.

How long can I store leftover White Bean Beef Chili in the fridge?
You can enjoy your chili stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure it cools down to room temperature before sealing to maintain the best texture and flavor. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner on busy days!

Can I freeze White Bean Beef Chili, and if so, how?
Very! For freezing, portion the chili into freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring you leave some room for expansion as it freezes. Label the bags with the date, and this delicious chili will stay good for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the fridge overnight or reheat directly from frozen, adjusting the heating time accordingly.

What if my chili turns out too thick?
Don’t worry! If your White Bean Beef Chili is thicker than you’d like, just add a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating to reach your desired consistency. Stir well to combine, and heat until warmed through. This little trick can make a big difference!

Is this recipe safe for my pets or anyone with allergies?
While this chili is a delightful comfort food for humans, it’s important to note that some ingredients, such as onions and garlic, can be harmful to pets. If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, always double-check ingredient lists and consider substitutions to accommodate their dietary needs. For instance, you can opt for a vegetarian broth to make this dish suitable for veggie lovers!

Are there any vegan alternatives for this recipe?
Absolutely! For a vegan White Bean Beef Chili, you can substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils for protein. Use vegetable broth and ensure your cheese and sour cream are dairy-free options. This way, everyone can enjoy this hearty dish without feeling left out!