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When the air turns crisp and the leaves start to fall, there’s no better way to warm up than with a steaming bowl of chili.
Whether you’re craving something smoky and meaty, sweet and seasonal, or entirely plant-based, these 23+ fall chili recipes deliver comfort and bold flavor with every bite.
Packed with autumn-inspired ingredients like pumpkin, sweet potato, apple cider, and butternut squash, this ultimate collection is made for cozy dinners, football Sundays, or slow cooker days when you just want to let the aroma fill your kitchen.
From hearty classics to creative new favorites, you’ll find something here to satisfy every palate all season long.
23+ Must-Try Fall Chili Recipes Packed with Comfort and Flavor
With these 23+ fall chili recipes at your fingertips, you’ll be ready for every cold snap, potluck, and cozy night in.
These dishes aren’t just comforting—they’re simple, satisfying, and endlessly versatile.
Whether you slow-cook them for hours or whip them up in under 30 minutes, there’s a bowl of chili here ready to become your new seasonal staple.
Smoky Pumpkin Turkey Chili
As the crisp air of fall settles in, Smoky Pumpkin Turkey Chili offers a hearty, comforting bowl packed with seasonal warmth and depth.
The smoky undertones from chipotle peppers pair perfectly with the mild sweetness of pumpkin puree, creating a velvety texture that clings to every spoonful.
Lean ground turkey makes this a lighter, protein-rich option that doesn’t skimp on bold flavor.
It’s the kind of chili that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma and stands proudly on its own, yet it also makes a perfect companion to crusty bread or a buttery cornbread muffin.
Butternut Squash Black Bean Chili
Creamy, vibrant, and packed with fiber, Butternut Squash Black Bean Chili is a colorful twist on traditional fall chili recipes.
Earthy cumin and smoked paprika bring out the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash, while hearty black beans add protein and depth.
The contrast between the tender squash and the slight chew of the beans makes each bite interesting and satisfying.
Whether served solo in a steaming bowl or spooned over baked sweet potatoes, it brings cozy, wholesome flavors to your table.
White Chicken Chili
Light yet deeply flavorful, White Chicken Chili brings a fresh take to your fall chili lineup with a creamy base made from white beans and a hint of tangy lime.
Tender shredded chicken soaks up garlic, green chilies, and warm spices, creating a savory stew with just enough kick.
This chili is luxuriously smooth and perfect for those crisp evenings when you want something hearty but not too heavy.
It pairs beautifully with tortilla chips or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a meal that feels both nourishing and indulgent.
Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili
Rich, robust, and packed with texture, Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili is a plant-based dream that simmers into perfection while you go about your day.
A medley of beans, bell peppers, corn, and tomatoes meld together with layers of chili powder, cumin, and oregano to build a savory, slow-developing flavor.
The gentle bubbling of the crockpot fills your home with the unmistakable scent of comfort.
Serve it topped with avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream for a satisfying standalone dish or a vibrant addition to a fall potluck.
Apple Cider Chili
Unexpectedly delightful, Apple Cider Chili marries the sweet tartness of fall’s favorite beverage with the bold, savory base of classic chili.
Ground beef or turkey is simmered with onions, beans, and tomatoes, then balanced with a splash of fresh apple cider for an aromatic twist.
The result is a subtly sweet, deeply flavorful bowl that awakens the senses with every bite.
It’s ideal for festive gatherings, pairing wonderfully with cheddar cornbread or served over rice for an autumn-inspired dinner that surprises and satisfies.
Sweet Potato Chili
Thick, hearty, and brimming with rustic charm, Sweet Potato Chili is a fall favorite that captures the season’s soul in a single bowl.
The natural sweetness of tender sweet potatoes melds seamlessly with spicy chili powder, black beans, and tangy tomatoes for a balance of comfort and heat.
Each spoonful offers a mosaic of textures—from velvety chunks to rich, stewed broth—that warm you from the inside out.
Enjoy it on its own or ladled over brown rice or quinoa for a nutrient-packed, cozy meal.
Maple Chipotle Chili
Sweet meets smoky in Maple Chipotle Chili, a cozy, flavor-packed dish that captures fall in every spoonful.
The rich base of tomatoes and beans is elevated by a touch of pure maple syrup, balancing the deep heat of chipotle peppers with warm, caramel-like sweetness.
Chunks of ground beef or turkey absorb the bold spices, creating a thick, slow-simmered chili with a silky texture and just the right kick.
Serve it with warm cornbread or a sprinkle of aged cheddar to complete this unforgettable seasonal comfort food.
Three-Bean Chili
Simple, satisfying, and endlessly versatile, Three-Bean Chili is a vegetarian favorite perfect for cool autumn days.
A blend of kidney, black, and pinto beans creates hearty texture, while onion, garlic, and fire-roasted tomatoes build layers of savory depth.
Hints of chili powder and oregano infuse the pot with warming spice, filling your kitchen with the essence of fall comfort.
This chili shines on its own, but it’s also great spooned over rice, nachos, or baked potatoes for easy weeknight meals.
Black Bean Pumpkin Chili
Black Bean Pumpkin Chili combines creamy pumpkin puree with bold spices and hearty black beans for a chili that’s both nourishing and festive.
The smooth texture of pumpkin contrasts beautifully with the firm beans, creating a thick, stew-like dish full of fiber and fall flavor.
Cinnamon, cumin, and a hint of cayenne add warmth and intrigue, giving it a gentle heat that lingers on the tongue.
It’s perfect in a bowl with toppings like Greek yogurt and green onions—or tucked into tortillas for an unexpected twist on taco night.
Lentil Chili
Hearty and wholesome, Lentil Chili delivers rich, slow-cooked flavor in a fast, weeknight-friendly format.
Earthy lentils soak up tomato, garlic, and smoky paprika, turning soft and satisfying without losing their bite.
This chili is thick and stick-to-your-ribs good, with a comforting aroma that brings warmth to any chilly fall evening.
Pair it with crusty bread or serve it over mashed potatoes for a plant-based meal that’s both cozy and filling.
Beer Chili
Bold and robust, Beer Chili adds a malty, deep dimension to classic chili with the addition of your favorite ale or lager.
Simmered with beef, beans, and a punchy blend of spices, the beer enhances the richness while mellowing the acidity of the tomatoes.
Each bite carries the subtle bitterness of hops and the umami depth of slow-cooked meat, perfect for savoring on game day or beside a roaring fire.
Top with jalapeños, sour cream, or sharp cheddar for a full-flavored experience that’s hard to forget.
Spicy White Bean Chili
Creamy and fiery all at once, Spicy White Bean Chili brings the heat while staying light and velvety.
White beans form the base, enhanced with roasted green chilies, garlic, and a swirl of cream or coconut milk for luxurious texture.
The warmth builds with every bite, layered with cumin, cayenne, and a dash of lime to brighten the finish.
It’s a soul-warming bowl that’s perfect on its own or ladled over roasted squash or tortilla chips for a hearty autumn twist.
Turkey Pumpkin Chili
Turkey Pumpkin Chili brings together lean protein and seasonal flavor in a bowl that’s both nourishing and comforting.
The mild sweetness of pumpkin puree pairs beautifully with savory turkey, garlic, and smoky chili powder, creating a silky, spiced base.
Hints of cinnamon and paprika add warmth, while white beans bring texture and balance to the dish.
It’s perfect as a standalone meal or served over a baked potato for a cozy, nutrient-rich fall dinner.
Harvest Chili
Bursting with vegetables and fall colors, Harvest Chili is a celebration of the season’s bounty in chili form.
Carrots, sweet potatoes, bell peppers, and corn mingle with hearty beans and a rich tomato base, seasoned with cumin and a touch of maple syrup.
The result is a slightly sweet, deeply savory chili that fills the kitchen with autumn aromas.
Serve it in a bowl, ladle it over rice, or enjoy it with a side of cornbread for a wholesome seasonal feast.
Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili
With its smoky spices and bold textures, Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili offers a hearty vegetarian option that satisfies meat-lovers too.
Sweet potatoes add a soft, earthy sweetness that contrasts the richness of black beans and the fire-roasted tomatoes.
Chili powder and smoked paprika create a warming heat, while lime juice gives it a bright finish.
This chili is filling on its own but also shines when served over quinoa or scooped into a warm tortilla.
Pumpkin Chili
Simple, bold, and unmistakably fall, Pumpkin Chili uses the rich creaminess of pumpkin to create a luscious, hearty base.
Ground beef or turkey melds with tender beans, tomatoes, and an aromatic mix of chili spices for a meal that’s full of depth.
The pumpkin adds a subtle sweetness and velvety texture without overpowering the savory profile.
Whether enjoyed solo or with a crusty slice of sourdough, it’s a cozy autumn essential.
Instant Pot Chili
Instant Pot Chili brings all the slow-cooked richness of classic chili in a fraction of the time, making it ideal for busy fall nights.
Ground beef, beans, and tomatoes cook under pressure with onions, garlic, and bold spices to create a thick, meaty stew.
The Instant Pot seals in flavor quickly, while giving the chili a long-simmered taste and ultra-comforting aroma.
It’s versatile enough to top baked potatoes, nachos, or be served in a warm bowl with your favorite toppings.
Quinoa Chili
Nutty, hearty, and full of protein, Quinoa Chili is a wholesome spin on traditional chili that fits perfectly into fall meal plans.
Red quinoa absorbs all the rich flavors of tomato, beans, and warm spices, adding texture and body without any meat.
Peppers, corn, and zucchini bring color and freshness, making each bite vibrant and satisfying.
Enjoy it alone as a meatless main or use it as a filling base for stuffed peppers or chili-stuffed squash.
Classic Beef Chili
Classic Beef Chili delivers everything you crave on a chilly fall day—rich flavor, deep spice, and that unmistakable slow-cooked aroma.
Ground beef is browned to perfection and simmered with kidney beans, tomatoes, onions, and a bold blend of chili powder and cumin.
The result is a thick, savory chili with a satisfying bite and just enough heat to warm you through.
Whether topped with cheese and green onions or spooned over rice, it’s a timeless favorite that never fails to comfort.
Vegan Chili
Hearty and full of bold flavor, Vegan Chili proves that meatless doesn’t mean less satisfying.
This plant-based bowl features a medley of beans, chunky vegetables, and fire-roasted tomatoes, simmered with garlic, paprika, and chipotle.
It’s smoky, spicy, and packed with fiber, making it ideal for both casual dinners and cozy fall gatherings.
Top it with avocado, fresh herbs, or a squeeze of lime for a vibrant, nourishing meal.
Chicken Chili
Chicken Chili is a lighter, protein-rich take on traditional chili that still delivers all the warming fall flavors.
Shredded or diced chicken blends with white beans, green chilies, garlic, and spices for a creamy, zesty stew.
Hints of cumin and coriander infuse the broth with warmth, while a splash of lime adds brightness to every spoonful.
It’s perfect on its own or served with tortilla chips and a touch of sour cream for a balanced, cozy dish.
Conclusion
From smoky spice to subtle sweetness, these 23+ fall chili recipes capture everything we love about autumn in one hearty, flavor-packed bowl.
They’re more than meals—they’re warm traditions, perfect for sharing around the table or enjoying solo with a cozy blanket.
Pick your favorite, garnish generously, and let the season’s best ingredients shine.
