Not only is this chili easy to make, but it’s also an actual flavor bomb that’ll satisfy even the fiercest fall cravings. The beans and veggies bring that rich, hearty texture you crave, while the spices give it a kick you won’t be able to resist. Plus, it’s the perfect one-pot meal.

It’s finally cooling down, and Fall is in the air, and you know what that means—time to cozy up with some seriously satisfying comfort food! But who says comfort food can’t be healthy and budget-friendly too? 

As a certified health coach and budget-conscious food blogger, I’m all about bringing you the tastiest and most nutritious bites that won’t break the bank. And today, I’m dishing out a recipe that’ll warm your soul and your wallet: a mouthwatering Meatless Chili that’s perfect for the fall season! 

Let’s face it, folks, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of chili to wrap your taste buds in a cozy, flavor-packed hug. But who needs meat when you can whip up a hearty, vegetarian version that’s just as tasty? 

The Budget-Friendly Scoop:

First things first, let’s talk about the budget. With simple, budget-friendly ingredients, this Meatless Chili is here to prove that eating well doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune. Grab your shopping list, and let’s roll!

Ingredients (Serves 4-5):

• 1 Small yellow onion (diced)
• 1 can (14 oz) Fire-roasted tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) Black beans (drain and rinse)
• 1 can (15 oz) Pinto beans (drain and rinse)
• 2 oz Green chiles (mild, optional, but highly recommended)
• 7 oz Chipotle Peppers in adobo sauce
• 4 cups Low sodium veggie broth (3 to 4 cups)
• 1 pack of impossible meat

Seasonings

• 1 tsp Onion powder
• 1 tsp Garlic powder
• 3 tbsp Chili powder
• 1 tbsp Cumin
• 1 tsp Cinnamon
• 1 tbsp Brown sugar

Garnish

• Shredded cheese 
• Fresh cilantro, sour cream, and lime wedges for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a Dutch oven, sautee onions until translucent, add the impossible meat, and let it crumble; cook for about 4-5 minutes.
2. Add roasted tomatoes and cook for about 2-3 min.
3. Add black beans and pinto (make sure to drain and rinse them well)
4. Add the green chile at this point (optional)
5. Blend chipotle peppers with 1 cup of veggie broth.
6. Add the chipotle mixture to the Dutch oven.
7. Add two more cups of veggie broth.
8. At this time, add all of the seasonings.
9. Mix and bring the chili to a boil.
10. Once boiled, lower the heat to low and cover for about 1 hour.
11. After 1 hour, stir the chili. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning (add salt if needed).
12. Stir and add another cup of veggie broth (if needed, if it’s too thick, etc.)
13. Cover and cook for another 30 minutes or so.
14. Serve and add garnishes; enjoy!

Serve it with my cornbread waffles, just like this one:

Click for the recipe

Tips

Here are four tips to help you cook this delicious Meatless Chili to perfection:

1. Layer the Flavors: Start by sautéing the diced onion until they become tender. This initial step builds a solid flavor foundation for your chili. Adding spices after the veggies have softened allows them to release their aromatic oils and intensify the flavor.

2. Balancing Spices: Spice levels can vary depending on personal preference, so feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your taste. If you prefer milder, do not add the green chiles; add only half of the chipotle peppers. Start with less and add more gradually, tasting as you go. 

3. Simmer for Flavor: Let your chili simmer for at least 30 minutes after adding all the ingredients. This simmering time allows the flavors to meld together and develop that deep, rich taste that makes chili irresistible. It also gives the beans and veggies time to soften and absorb all the delicious seasonings.

4. Toppings Galore: While the chili is the star, don’t forget the toppings! Shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, sour cream, and a squeeze of lime add layers of flavor and texture to your bowl. These toppings enhance the taste and provide a delightful visual contrast. I encourage you to get creative with your toppings for the perfect meal.

With these tips in your cooking arsenal, your Meatless Chili will be a hit every time, delivering budget-friendly, healthy-ish goodness that’ll have your family return for more! 

Why You’ll Love It:

Not only is this chili easy to make, but it’s also an actual flavor bomb that’ll satisfy even the fiercest fall cravings. The beans and veggies bring that rich, hearty texture you crave, while the spices give it a kick you won’t be able to resist. Plus, it’s the perfect one-pot meal.

So, whether you’re a dedicated vegetarian or just looking to cut back on the meat, this Meatless Chili is your ticket to a warm and cozy fall season without the heavy price tag. 

Tag a friend who needs this budget-friendly, healthy-ish recipe in their life! And remember to snap a pic for the ‘Gram and share the love. Tag me @melshealthybowl.

Keep cookin’, my friends, and remember: Good food doesn’t have to break the bank or your healthy journey! Stay cozy and satisfied all season long with this Meatless Chili masterpiece.

Check out my Instagram REEL to see step-by-step.

Need for easy recipes? Check these out:

• The Best and Crispy Shrimp Balls
• The Best Cookie Skillet With Ice Cream
• Thanksgiving with a Twist: The Best Seafood Boil 
• The Best Mocktail For Thanksgiving
• The Best of Mom’s Classic Tuna Casserole

Follow me on Instagram for daily meal inspiration:

Disclosure: This site contains affiliate links to products. I may receive a commission for purchases made through these links.