There’s something timeless and comforting about a good bowl of chili. Betsy’s Black Bean Chili delivers rich, bold flavors with minimal prep and simple pantry staples. The marriage of black beans, zesty salsa, savory tomato sauce, and a perfectly spiced beef base creates a deeply satisfying dish perfect for chilly nights, casual gatherings, or game-day feasts.
This chili is also a canvas for customization — add corn, diced peppers, or swap beef for turkey or a plant-based option for a lighter take. Whether topped with sharp cheddar, creamy avocado, or crunchy tortilla chips, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that hits the spot every time.
Full Recipe:
-
1 pound ground beef (ground round recommended)
-
2 (15-ounce) cans black beans (one drained, one undrained)
-
1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
-
1 cup salsa (your favorite variety)
-
1 (1.25-ounce) packet chili seasoning mix
Directions:
-
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and crumbly, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain and discard excess grease.
-
In a large saucepan over medium heat, pour in one drained can of black beans and one undrained.
-
Add tomato sauce, salsa, and chili seasoning mix to the beans. Stir well.
-
Add the cooked ground beef to the pot and stir to combine.
-
Bring the chili to a simmer and let it cook for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded.
-
Serve hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings
A Cozy Classic: Betsy’s Black Bean Chili
Chili has always held a place of honor in comfort food culture, and Betsy’s Black Bean Chili is no exception. Simple, hearty, and full of bold flavors, this chili brings together a few pantry staples to create a warm and satisfying dish. What makes it stand out is not just its ease of preparation, but the way it blends humble ingredients into something deeply flavorful and truly memorable.
This is a one-pot wonder that fits easily into busy lifestyles — perfect for weeknights when time is short but your appetite demands something hearty and wholesome. At the same time, it’s also versatile enough to be served at gatherings, potlucks, or tailgating events, where it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Why Betsy’s Black Bean Chili Stands Out
There are countless chili recipes out there, each with its own twist. Some rely on slow-simmering for hours, others use exotic spice blends or fancy ingredients. But Betsy’s Black Bean Chili proves that you don’t need to complicate things to make a delicious meal. The core of this recipe is simplicity and balance.
What sets it apart is the clever use of everyday ingredients like black beans, ground beef, tomato sauce, salsa, and a chili seasoning packet. The addition of salsa adds a tangy, slightly spicy note that elevates the overall flavor profile without needing to chop extra vegetables or make a spice blend from scratch. It’s the type of dish that you can always count on, whether you’re feeding a family of four or doubling the batch for leftovers or entertaining.
Perfect for Beginners and Busy Cooks Alike
If you’re new to cooking or just looking for a dependable, no-fuss dinner, this chili is for you. The preparation time is minimal, and the cooking process is straightforward. You brown the beef, combine it with the other ingredients, and let everything simmer together for just about 25 minutes. That’s it.
Even more, it’s a forgiving recipe. Want it spicier? Use hot salsa or add red pepper flakes. Prefer it milder? Choose a mild salsa and go easy on the seasoning. You can also swap in ground turkey or plant-based ground meat if you’re looking for a leaner or vegetarian version.
A Nutritional Powerhouse in a Bowl
Beyond being tasty and comforting, this chili packs a nutritional punch. Black beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. When paired with lean ground beef, you get a well-balanced meal rich in protein and satisfying enough to keep you full for hours.
Black beans are also known for supporting heart health and improving digestion due to their high fiber content. The tomato sauce and salsa contribute antioxidants like lycopene, while the overall low sugar and moderate fat profile of the dish make it a relatively healthy option in the comfort food category.
A Customizable Comfort Food
One of the beauties of chili in general — and Betsy’s version in particular — is its adaptability. Here are a few popular ways people customize this recipe to suit their tastes and dietary needs:
-
Make it vegetarian: Replace the ground beef with an extra can of black beans, lentils, or a meatless crumble.
-
Add vegetables: Corn, bell peppers, or diced zucchini can all be added to enhance texture and nutrition.
-
Make it spicier: Add jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or a splash of hot sauce to turn up the heat.
-
Serve it differently: Instead of serving it in a bowl, try spooning it over baked potatoes, rice, or even nachos.
These small changes can make the dish feel brand new each time, so you never get bored — even if you add it to your weekly rotation.
Ideal for Meal Prep and Leftovers
Betsy’s Black Bean Chili stores and reheats exceptionally well, making it a top contender for meal prepping. Once cooked, it can be refrigerated for 3-4 days or frozen for up to three months. The flavors often deepen over time, meaning that leftovers can taste even better than the day it was made.
For busy families, students, or anyone with a packed schedule, having a go-to meal that reheats quickly without losing quality is a game-changer. You can portion it out into containers and pair it with different sides throughout the week — cornbread one day, rice the next — to keep things interesting.
Family-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing
This chili recipe has a universal appeal. Kids tend to love it because it isn’t overwhelmingly spicy, and adults enjoy it for its flavor and heartiness. It’s also naturally gluten-free (just check the seasoning packet to be sure) and can be made dairy-free depending on how it’s served.
When you’re cooking for a group — whether it’s a party, sports night, or casual family get-together — Betsy’s Black Bean Chili is a smart choice. You can scale it up easily, keep it warm in a slow cooker, and set up a toppings bar with sour cream, shredded cheese, jalapeños, and chopped herbs to let guests customize their own bowls.
How to Serve It for Maximum Enjoyment
This chili is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right sides or toppings can take the experience to the next level. Here are a few serving suggestions:
-
With cornbread: A classic combo that never fails. Sweet, crumbly cornbread pairs beautifully with the savory richness of chili.
-
Over rice or quinoa: A great way to stretch the servings and add even more texture.
-
Topped with cheese and sour cream: For an indulgent finish, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar and a dollop of sour cream are perfect.
-
As a nacho topper: Spoon the chili over tortilla chips, sprinkle with cheese, and bake until melted for a quick and tasty snack or appetizer.
-
Inside a bread bowl: A fun presentation idea for dinner parties or game-day events.
Betsy’s Black Bean Chili and Seasonal Appeal
While chili is great year-round, Betsy’s version feels especially fitting in the fall and winter months when hearty, warming meals are most appreciated. It’s the kind of dish you crave when the temperature drops — something to make your kitchen smell amazing and your belly feel full.
But don’t discount it for summer, either. It’s quick to cook, doesn’t require oven use, and is perfect for outdoor gatherings, picnics, and potlucks. Add a cool side like coleslaw or a crisp garden salad to balance the heat.
Conclusion: A Timeless, Dependable Favorite
In a world full of complicated recipes and gourmet trends, Betsy’s Black Bean Chili reminds us that great food doesn’t have to be complicated. With a handful of ingredients, one pot, and less than 40 minutes, you can have a meal that hits all the right notes: flavor, comfort, nutrition, and convenience.
Whether you’re making dinner for one, meal prepping for the week, or hosting friends for a casual get-together, this chili delivers. It’s affordable, adaptable, and undeniably satisfying — everything you want in a go-to recipe. Keep it in your back pocket, because once you try it, it just might become one of your all-time favorites.
