13 Chili Recipes That Are Even Better The Next Day

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As soon as there’s a crisp feeling in the air, that means it’s chili season! Chili recipes always satisfy at the end of a long day, no matter if you go for classic meaty versions or dive into vegetarian options. There’s a flavor for everyone, and a method, too. Choose from making your chili on the stove, in the slow cooker, using the Instant Pot, or even in a smoker! Don’t skimp on those chili toppings either—they’re just as important as what’s inside the bowl! Whether you love smoky and spicy chili or prefer to keep things mild, grab a spoon and get ready to dive in to these chili recipes that are sure to win the cook-off.

Bowl of bison chili with shredded cheese and jalapeños on top.
Bison Chili. Photo credit: Stetted.

Three Bean Chili

Three bean chili in a bowl with toppings and sliced bread nearby.
Three Bean Chili. Photo credit: Stetted.

Who says chili can’t have beans? This three bean chili is a delicious vegetarian option with tons of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Three Bean Chili

Bison Chili

Blue enamel bowl of bison chili.
Bison Chili. Photo credit: Stetted.

Lean ground bison is a great alternative to classic been for this flavorful bean-free chili. Offer a variety of toppings so everyone can customize as they like.
Get the Recipe: Bison Chili

Hearty Mexican White Bean Chili

A bowl of white bean chili topped with avocado, lime wedge, and cilantro, containing corn and diced red bell peppers.
Hearty Mexican White Bean Chili. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

White beans and corn are the basis of this flavorful chili, featuring Mexican-inspired spices. Lime, avocado, and cilantro are musts!
Get the Recipe: Hearty Mexican White Bean Chili

Pumpkin Turkey Chili

Bowls of pumpkin turkey chili next to a plate of biscuits.
Pumpkin Turkey Chili. Photo credit: Stetted.

Embrace fall flavors and make this pumpkin turkey chili. You’ll love the combination of flavors, and it’s so easy to make in the slow cooker.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Turkey Chili

Smoked Cincinnati Chili Recipe

A plate of spaghetti topped with meat sauce on one side and shredded cheese on the other.
Smoked Cincinnati Chili Recipe. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Get the smoker ready and make this fantastic twist on Cincinnati chili. It’s a great way to enjoy a classic in a new way.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Cincinnati Chili Recipe

Butternut Squash Chili

A bowl of butternut squash chili with a dollop of sour cream on top.
Butternut Squash Chili. Photo credit: Stetted.

Butternut squash chili has plenty of flavor and spice, without the meat. It’s smoky and hearty, and just perfect for cool nights.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Chili


Smoked Brisket Chili

A bowl of chili topped with sour cream, sliced green onions, and shredded cheese sits next to a cutting board with chopped herbs and lime wedges.
Smoked Brisket Chili. Photo credit: Girl Carnivore.

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Have leftover brisket on hand? You’re going to want to make this mouthwatering brisket chili.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Brisket Chili

White Bean Chicken Chili

Two bowls of white bean chicken chili.
White Bean Chicken Chili. Photo credit: Stetted.

Chicken is great for chili too, especially when paired with white beans and a lighter broth. Simple yet full of flavor!
Get the Recipe: White Bean Chicken Chili

Chili Verde

A skillet filled with pork in green chili sauce, garnished with cilantro, sits next to a wooden spoon and a cutting board with sliced avocado and cilantro.
Chili Verde. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

Succulent pork is the star in this chili verde. Roasted peppers and tomatillos give it wonderful bold flavor.
Get the Recipe: Chili Verde

Ground Beef Chili

Two bowls of ground beef chili with cheese and jalapenos on top.
Ground Beef Chili. Photo credit: Stetted.

Use your slow cooker or Instant Pot to make this classic ground beef chili. It’s even better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Chili

Hearty Sirloin Steak Chili

A bowl of chili topped with shredded cheese, sliced jalapeños, and sour cream, served with two cornbread muffins and a spoon on a wooden board with a red napkin.
Hearty Sirloin Steak Chili. Photo credit: Blackberry Babe.

Tender steak simmers in a rich and flavorful combination of tomatoes, beans, and spices. It’s a great game-day option for the gang!
Get the Recipe: Hearty Sirloin Steak Chili

Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili

A close up of a bowl of sweet potato black bean chili.
Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili. Photo credit: Stetted.

Sweet potatoes make this vegetarian naturally sweet with just the right amount of spice. It’s great for those who want a cozy, warming dish that isn’t too hot on the tongue.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili

Quick and Easy Instant Pot Chili

A bowl of chili with ground meat, beans, chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese, garnished with chopped green onions.
Quick and Easy Instant Pot Chili. Photo credit: The Kitchen Magpie.

Whip up this easy Instant Pot chili and have dinner ready in a flash. It’s easy to customize based on what you have in the pantry, so you can make over and over again with different ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Quick and Easy Instant Pot Chili

A woman in a black shirt smiling in a kitchen.

About Megan

I learned how to cook by exploring seasonal ingredients, and you can too! Meal time shouldn’t be stressful or complicated, and with fresh ingredients and easy methods, I’m here to help you enjoy the time spent in the kitchen. Read more…

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