Black Bean Corn Vegetarian Chili Recipe for Easy Meals

Updated On: October 7, 2025

When the weather turns chilly or you just crave a comforting bowl of hearty goodness, this Black Bean Corn Vegetarian Chili Recipe is your perfect go-to. Packed with robust flavors, wholesome ingredients, and vibrant colors, this chili is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your rotation, this recipe delivers a satisfying punch with every spoonful.

Made with black beans, sweet corn, fresh vegetables, and a blend of spices, this chili is simple to prepare and adaptable to your tastes. It’s perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or even a cozy night in.

Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of toppings and sides that can easily elevate the dish. Let’s dive into why this chili is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This black bean corn chili is a fantastic blend of flavors and textures, making it a filling and nutritious meal. It’s naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for many dietary needs.

The combination of hearty black beans and sweet corn provides a perfect balance of protein and fiber, keeping you energized and satisfied.

You’ll love how easy it is to customize this chili with your favorite vegetables or spices. It cooks quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights, and leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors meld beautifully.

This recipe is also budget-friendly and uses pantry staples, so it’s a great option for anyone looking to eat well without breaking the bank.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional for heat)
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup frozen or canned corn kernels
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Can opener
  • Ladle for serving

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent and soft.
  2. Add the garlic, bell pepper, and jalapeño (if using). Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften.
  3. Stir in the spices: cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and ground coriander. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices and release their aroma.
  4. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, black beans, corn, and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
  5. Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook gently for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like, add extra chili powder or cumin for more depth.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in the lime juice for a bright, fresh finish.
  8. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

For a smokier flavor, add a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper.

If you prefer a thicker chili, simmer uncovered for an additional 10 minutes or mash some of the beans with the back of a spoon.

Try adding diced zucchini or carrots for extra veggies and texture.

Serve with avocado slices, shredded cheese, or sour cream for added richness.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 280
Protein 12g
Carbohydrates 45g
Fiber 12g
Fat 6g
Sodium 450mg
Vitamin C 35% DV
Iron 20% DV

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian chili is delicious served on its own or with a variety of sides. For a classic pairing, try it with warm cornbread or tortilla chips.

You can also spoon it over steamed rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.

Top your bowl with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, and some sliced avocado for extra creaminess. Fresh lime wedges and chopped green onions add a nice zing and crunch.

For a fun twist, serve it alongside some of your favorite recipes like Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe to balance the heat and spice.

Conclusion

This Black Bean Corn Vegetarian Chili Recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy a comforting, nutritious meal without the meat. It’s packed with fiber, protein, and vibrant flavors that will keep you cozy and satisfied.

The recipe is versatile, easy to prepare, and perfect for leftovers, making it ideal for busy lifestyles.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal to share with friends, this chili fits the bill beautifully. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak more veggies and plant-based protein into your diet.

For more wholesome and delicious recipes, check out our Chipotle Black Beans And Rice Recipe or cool off with a sweet treat like our Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe. Happy cooking and enjoy your bowl of cozy chili!

📖 Recipe Card: Black Bean Corn Vegetarian Chili

Description: A hearty and flavorful vegetarian chili packed with black beans, corn, and spices. Perfect for a cozy meal that's both nutritious and satisfying.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M

Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add onion and bell pepper; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  4. Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne; cook for 30 seconds.
  5. Add black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper.
  6. Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Adjust seasoning as needed and serve warm.

Nutrition: Calories: 250 kcal | Protein: 12 g | Fat: 5 g | Carbs: 40 g

{“@context”: “https://schema.org/”, “@type”: “Recipe”, “name”: “Black Bean Corn Vegetarian Chili”, “image”: [], “author”: {“@type”: “Organization”, “name”: “GluttonLv”}, “description”: “A hearty and flavorful vegetarian chili packed with black beans, corn, and spices. Perfect for a cozy meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying.”, “prepTime”: “PT15M”, “cookTime”: “PT30M”, “totalTime”: “PT45M”, “recipeYield”: “6 servings”, “recipeIngredient”: [“2 tablespoons olive oil”, “1 medium onion, diced”, “3 cloves garlic, minced”, “1 red bell pepper, diced”, “2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed”, “1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained”, “1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes”, “2 tablespoons chili powder”, “1 teaspoon ground cumin”, “1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika”, “1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)”, “Salt and black pepper to taste”], “recipeInstructions”: [{“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Add onion and bell pepper; saut\u00e9 until softened, about 5 minutes.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne; cook for 30 seconds.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Add black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Adjust seasoning as needed and serve warm.”}], “nutrition”: {“calories”: “250 kcal”, “proteinContent”: “12 g”, “fatContent”: “5 g”, “carbohydrateContent”: “40 g”}}

Photo of author

Marta K

Leave a Comment

X