This unexpected twist gives classic chili a summery makeover. Green bean chili is bold, beefy and zesty, and it might just be the surprise hit of the season.
Wait—green bean chili? Yep, you heard that right. You might not find this in the ultimate guide to chili alongside your usual bowl of red, trust us: It’s every bit as satisfying. With tender green beans, seasoned ground beef and just the right amount of spice, it puts a summery spin on classic chili. Bright, bold and beefy, this unexpected dish has earned a spot on our list of best chili recipes.
Green Bean Chili Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Green pepper
- Onion
- Garlic
- French-style green beans
- Mexican stewed tomatoes
- Canned tomato sauce
- Salsa
- Chili powder
- Red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper
Directions
Step 1: Brown the beef
In a large saucepan, cook the beef, green pepper, onion and garlic over medium heat until the beef is no longer pink. Drain any excess liquid.
Step 2: Add the remaining ingredients and simmer
Add the green beans, tomatoes, tomato sauce, salsa, chili powder and red pepper flakes. Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer it, uncovered, for 30 minutes or until it’s heated through. Season the chili with salt and pepper to taste.
How to Store Green Bean Chili
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, it can be frozen in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
Green Bean Chili Tips
Can I use fresh green beans in this green bean chili?
You can definitely use fresh green beans in this recipe. If you do opt to use fresh beans, they’ll need to simmer longer to become tender. For guidance, check out our tips on how to cook perfect green beans.
Can I add more vegetables to green bean chili?
Absolutely. This chili with green beans makes a great base for experimenting. Take advantage of what’s in season to try pretty much any type of summer squash, hot chiles or even okra. Bring in a variety of colors and textures for a boost of flavor and nutrition.
Can I make green bean chili with chicken?
You can. Simply swap chicken for the beef for chicken. In fact, a leftover rotisserie chicken works great here. It brings a meaty texture while cutting down on cook time, making for an even quicker and easier version of this recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup chopped green pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cans (14-1/2 ounces each) French-style green beans
- 1 can (14-1/2 ounces) Mexican stewed tomatoes
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a large saucepan, cook the beef, green pepper, onion and garlic over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. Add the remaining ingredients; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 30 minutes or until heated through.
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When folks hear this recipe's name, they're certainly skeptical. But after one taste, they're asking for the recipe! This chili is especially nice for those who don't care for kidney beans found in most recipes. - Barbara Scott, Midland, Texas
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