This is the best and easiest vegetarian chili recipe! It’s protein packed with black beans and pinto beans and perfectly seasoned and flavorful. Vegetarian chili is the ultimate comfort food and is guaranteed to be a hit at your next potluck!

chili in a while bowl with tomatoes and a spoon

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What is Chili?

Chili is traditionally a spicy stew that contains chili powder, tomatoes and beans that originated from Northern Mexico or Southern Texas. It’s a hearty dish that can be customized to your tastes and preferences. It’s a perfect for cooler fall and winter and great to serve at potlucks!

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
1 red pepper, diced
4 garlic cloves, minced
30oz ounces diced tomatoes
10 oz diced tomatoes with green chilis
2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
10oz frozen corn
1 tsp salt
4 tbsp chili powder
1 tbsp cumin
1 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried oregano

Instructions

Set the Instant Pot to sauté and heat the olive oil. Add the onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Turn off sauté.
Add in the red pepper, diced tomatoes, black beans, pinto beans, corn, salt, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika and oregano. Stir until all ingredients are mixed.
Place the lid on the Instant Pot and seal. Set on Manual (or High depending on your model) for 14 minutes (it will take 5-10 minutes to come to pressure).
Quick release the Instant Pot and serve chili with your favorite toppings like guacamole, cheese and tortilla chips.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

The great thing about chili is that it can be customized to what you have on hand and taste preferences. If you want to make this recipe a little more spicy, add in a little more chili powder.
If you don’t have frozen corn on hand you can swap out for canned (just make sure to drain it before adding)
If you want to make this more like a chili con carne (chili with beef), add in a package of frozen meatless crumbles. My favorite to use is Beyond Beef Crumbles (this will also make it more protein packed!).

How to Store Leftovers

Leftovers should be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days in an airtight container (I like to use these containers)

Can I Freeze Leftovers?

Yes! After leftovers have cooled, put them into an airtight freezer bag (I like these ones) and store in the freezer for up to 6 months. To defrost, take out of the freezer 24 hours and store in the fridge for 24 hours before serving.

Recommended Side Dishes

I like to serve my chili with a few different side dish and topping options. I like to set toppings out so everyone can choose their favorites and make the chili their own. My family’s favorite sides and toppings are:

cheese (we like to make this 5 minute vegan queso recipe)
guacamole
tortilla chips (or frito chips)
rice (brown rice or cauliflower)
sour cream
slices of avocado
cilantro
shredded lettuce
hot sauce

instant pot chili with an instant pot in the background

How do I do a Quick Release on an Instant Pot?

Doing a quick release on the Instant Pot is super easy! All you have to do is release steam when the the timer goes off. To release the steam, turn the valve to the left (I recommend using a towel to help control the steam).

New to Instant Pot cooking? Check out my ultimate guide to cooking with the Instant Pot here!

More Healthy Instant Pot Recipes

Instant Pot Street Tacos

Easy Mashed Potatoes (Vegan)

Cauliflower Tikka Masala

Instant Pot Pumpkin Spice Bites

How to Make Quinoa in the Instant Pot