There’s nothing quite like the cozy embrace of a hearty bowl of chili on a chilly evening. As I watched the first frost of the season settle on my windowpane, I felt an undeniable urge to whip up something warm and comforting—enter my Classic White Bean Beef Chili. This recipe is an unexpected twist on the traditional tomato-based chili, featuring creamy cannellini beans that add a luscious texture alongside tender ground beef.
With a blend of aromatic spices that dance through your kitchen, this one-pot wonder is perfect for meal prep or a gathering with friends. Imagine a satisfying bowl topped with melted cheese and a dollop of sour cream, ready to be devoured. And the best part? You can customize it with your favorite toppings to make it uniquely yours. So let’s dive into this comforting dish that’s sure to put a smile on your face and warmth in your heart!
Why is Classic White Bean Beef Chili so irresistible?
Comforting flavors: Nothing beats the warmth of a cozy bowl filled with hearty beef and creamy cannellini beans.
One-pot simplicity: This dish comes together in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze while maximizing flavor.
Customizable delight: Top it with your favorites—be it cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro—making every bowl a personal masterpiece.
Meal prep friendly: Perfect for busy weeks; this chili tastes even better the next day, ideal for leftovers or freezing!
Crowd-pleaser: Whether you’re serving family or friends, this delicious twist on traditional chili is sure to gather everyone around the table.
Classic White Bean Beef Chili Ingredients
For the Chili
- Cannellini Beans – Use drained and rinsed for the best texture and creaminess in your chili.
- Ground Beef (90/10) – This lean meat adds rich flavor; you can also opt for a 93/7 or 85/15 blend.
- Yellow Onion – Diced into 1/4-inch pieces, it enhances the sweetness and depth of the flavors.
- Garlic – Minced for concentrated flavor, it elevates the aromatic profile of the dish.
- Chopped Green Chiles – These add a mild heat and texture; adjust to your spice preference.
- Ground Cumin – Freshly ground introduces warm, earthy tones that are essential to the chili’s flavor.
- Dried Oregano – This herb complements the beef perfectly, adding fragrant notes to the mix.
- Cinnamon – A dash adds warmth and balances the chili’s flavors with a hint of sweetness.
- Salt – Adjust to taste, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.
- White Pepper – Offers milder heat than black pepper and can be tailored to your taste.
- Cayenne Pepper – Use sparingly for that desirable kick of heat; adjust according to your preference.
- Chicken Broth – Provides a flavorful base; you can substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist.
For the Toppings
- Monterey Jack Cheese – Melt into the chili for creaminess; add gradually to avoid clumping.
- Fresh Cilantro – A sprinkle on top adds brightness and freshness to every bowl.
- Sour Cream – A dollop balances the spices and increases the creaminess of your Classic White Bean Beef Chili.
How to Make Classic White Bean Beef Chili
Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat it over medium-high heat. Brown the ground beef for about 8-10 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary for a less greasy chili.
Sauté the Aromatics: Add the diced yellow onion to the pot. Cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Stir in the Spices: Incorporate the browned beef, followed by the ground cumin, oregano, cinnamon, salt, white pepper, and cayenne pepper. Stir everything together and let it bloom on the heat for 1-2 minutes, filling your kitchen with a fragrant aroma.
Add the Green Chiles: Mix in the chopped green chiles, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes. This step will help meld the flavors together and bring a gentle heat to the dish.
Incorporate the Beans: Gently mix in the drained cannellini beans, taking the time to mash half for creaminess while leaving the rest whole for texture. This will create a wonderfully satisfying base for your chili.
Pour in the Broth: Add the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally, allowing the ingredients to harmonize beautifully for about 3-4 minutes.
Melt the Cheese: Gradually mix in the shredded Monterey Jack cheese, stirring gently until it’s melted and fully incorporated. This step adds a delightful creaminess that you won’t want to skip!
Simmer to Perfection: Continue to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, adjusting the consistency to your liking. If you prefer a thicker chili, let it simmer a little longer without a lid.
Serve and Enjoy: Ladle generous portions into bowls, topping each with a dollop of sour cream, extra cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for that finishing touch. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of your delicious chili!
Optional: Add a squeeze of lime juice for an extra zing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Classic White Bean Beef Chili bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chili itself and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best results, keep toppings like cheese and sour cream separate to prevent sogginess. If you want to prep ahead even further, the chili can be frozen in portions for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, giving you a hearty meal ready to share with family, saving you time during busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for Classic White Bean Beef Chili
- Mind the Fat: Always drain excess fat from the ground beef to avoid an oily, heavy chili. A leaner blend is best for a perfect balance.
- Spice Bloom: Toast your spices in the warm beef for a minute before adding liquid to enhance their flavors; this step makes a huge difference!
- Bean Texture: Don’t mash all the cannellini beans—crush only half to create a delightful mix of creaminess and texture in the Classic White Bean Beef Chili.
- Gradual Cheese Addition: Add Monterey Jack cheese gradually, stirring gently over low heat to prevent clumping while effortlessly infusing creaminess.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust salt and spice levels at each stage, ensuring your chili is personalized to perfection before serving.
What to Serve with Classic White Bean Beef Chili?
To elevate your meal experience, consider pairing your chili with delightful sides and toppings that enhance the comforting essence of this dish.
Warm Cornbread: The slight sweetness of cornbread perfectly complements the spicy notes in the chili, adding a fulfilling, rustic touch to your dinner. Freshly baked, it’s an irresistible combination.
Tortilla Chips: Crunchy and perfect for scooping, tortilla chips add a fun texture to the meal. They’re great for topping up your chili and enhancing every bite with a salty crunch.
Fresh Green Salad: A light and vibrant salad balances out the chili’s richness. Try a mix of greens, tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Grated Cheese: A sprinkle of additional Monterey Jack or sharp cheddar enhances creaminess, melting beautifully on top and creating a delightful flavor explosion with each spoonful.
Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream not only cools the heat but also adds a creamy finish that rounds out the overall flavor profile, making each bite even more satisfying.
Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado adds a rich texture and healthy fats to your meal. Its mild flavor pairs harmoniously, making every forkful a delight.
Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens the chili, elevating flavors and adding a zesty kick that brightens up your bowl.
Spicy Salsa: A side of fresh, spicy salsa adds a layer of heat and brightness, perfect for those who enjoy an extra kick with their chili.
Dessert Pairing: To finish off your meal, a slice of chocolate cake or warm brownies creates a comforting sweetness, balancing the hearty nature of the chili beautifully.
How to Store and Freeze Classic White Bean Beef Chili
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors will deepen over time, making it even more delicious for leftovers.
Freezer: Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Label the containers with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also heat in the microwave, adjusting time for even warming.
Wrap Up: Make sure to let the chili cool completely before putting it in the fridge or freezer to maintain freshness.
Classic White Bean Beef Chili Variations
Feel free to make this recipe your own with these imaginative and delicious twists!
- Turkey Swap: Replace ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner but equally flavorful option.
- Veggie Delight: Introduce chopped bell peppers or zucchini to add extra veggies and subtle sweetness.
- Bean Alternatives: Use pinto or navy beans instead of cannellini for a different texture and taste experience.
- Spice it Up: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick of heat that suits your taste.
- Add a Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or chipotle peppers for a deep, smoky undertone that enhances the chili.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute Monterey Jack cheese with a plant-based cheese for a creamy texture without dairy.
- Cinnamon Twist: For a sweeter note, try adding a teaspoon of cocoa powder for a rich, complex flavor profile.
- Herb Boost: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or basil sprinkled on top to brighten up each bowl and add freshness.
Let your culinary creativity shine as you explore these variations on this comforting classic!
Classic White Bean Beef Chili Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select cannellini beans?
Absolutely! When choosing cannellini beans, look for canned varieties labeled “low sodium” or “no added salt” for healthier options. Ensure the beans are firm and free from dark spots or any signs of damage. If using dried beans, soak them overnight and cook until tender for the best texture.
How long can I store leftover Classic White Bean Beef Chili in the fridge?
Very! You can store your leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors have a delightful way of melding together over time, making it a great option for meals throughout the week.
Can I freeze Classic White Bean Beef Chili?
For sure! To freeze, allow the chili to cool completely before portioning it into freezer-safe containers. Label the containers with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.
What should I do if my chili is too thick?
No worries! If your chili comes out thicker than you’d like, simply stir in a little more chicken broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. Let it simmer for an additional few minutes to allow it to blend the flavors back together.
Are there any dietary considerations for pets when making this chili?
Indeed! It’s important to remember that onions and garlic can be toxic to pets, so keep the chili out of their reach. If you’re cooking for a pet-friendly gathering, consider saving a small portion of the unseasoned beef or beans before adding any spices or harsh ingredients.
What are some good customizable toppings for my chili?
Oh, the more the merrier! Some delightful toppings include shredded Monterey Jack cheese for creaminess, fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor, a dollop of sour cream to balance the heat, avocado slices for added richness, or even crushed tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch. Enjoy crafting the perfect bowl!
Classic White Bean Beef Chili for Ultimate Comfort Food
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
Ingredients
For the Chili
- 2 cans Cannellini Beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 lb Ground Beef (90/10)
- 1 medium Yellow Onion, diced into 1/4-inch pieces
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 can Chopped Green Chiles
- 1 tbsp Ground Cumin freshly ground
- 1 tbsp Dried Oregano
- 1 dash Cinnamon
- 1 tsp Salt adjust to taste
- 1/2 tsp White Pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper adjust according to preference
- 4 cups Chicken Broth or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option
For the Toppings
- 1 cup Monterey Jack Cheese, shredded add gradually
- 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro, chopped for garnish
- 1/2 cup Sour Cream for serving
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat it over medium-high heat. Brown the ground beef for about 8-10 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add the diced yellow onion to the pot. Cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Incorporate the browned beef, followed by the ground cumin, oregano, cinnamon, salt, white pepper, and cayenne pepper. Stir everything together.
- Mix in the chopped green chiles, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes.
- Gently mix in the drained cannellini beans, mashing half for creaminess while leaving the rest whole.
- Add the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally for about 3-4 minutes.
- Gradually mix in the shredded Monterey Jack cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
- Continue to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, adjusting the consistency to your liking.
- Ladle portions into bowls, topping each with a dollop of sour cream, extra cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.