When the days start feeling shorter and the air gets that unmistakable chill, I instantly crave a big bowl of something hearty and comforting — and chili always hits the spot.
It’s the kind of meal that fills the house with the best smells and somehow tastes even better the next day (the magic of slow simmering, right?).
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This season, I’ve rounded up eight fall chili recipes that strike that perfect balance between cozy and nourishing.
From smoky plant-based versions to spicy classics and everything in between, each one is designed for those nights when you want dinner to feel effortless but still a little special.
1. Easy Pumpkin Chili
A fall classic with a twist — this hearty pumpkin chili blends savory spices, beans, and just the right touch of sweetness. It’s the kind of cozy dinner that warms you from the inside out.
2. Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili (Dairy-Free)
Creamy without the cream! This dairy-free white chicken chili is packed with shredded chicken, green chiles, and hearty beans for a cozy bowl that still feels fresh.
Rich, bold, and slow-simmered to perfection. Tender chunks of beef soak up layers of smoky, spicy flavor for a chili that feels restaurant-level but totally doable at home.
4. Ultimate Vegan Chili
You don’t need meat to make a seriously good chili. This vegan version is smoky, rich, and loaded with beans, lentils, and bold spices that give it incredible depth of flavor.
RELATED: 26 Cozy Vegan Fall Recipes To Celebrate Comfort Season (Without Compromise)
5. Vegetarian Black Bean Chili
Simple, wholesome, and so satisfying. Black beans, peppers, and tomatoes come together for a classic chili that’s easy to make and perfect for meatless Mondays.
6. Slow Cooker Chunky Beef Chili with Sweet Potatoes
A set-it-and-forget-it comfort meal. This slow cooker chili is loaded with tender beef, sweet potatoes, and beans — the perfect combo of hearty and wholesome.
7. Slow Cooker Fall Harvest Chili
The name says it all — packed with fall veggies, beans, and warm spices, this chili brings that harvest-season comfort with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or Sunday meal prep.
8. Slow Cooker Turkey Chili
Lean, flavorful, and full of protein. This turkey chili is lighter than the classic but just as satisfying — ideal for chilly nights when you want something hearty without the heaviness.
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