Vegetarian White Chili Recipe
Introduction
This Vegetarian White Chili is a comforting and flavorful dish that comes together quickly in just 25 minutes. Packed with creamy vegan cream cheese, white beans, and a blend of warming spices, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner that everyone can enjoy.

Ingredients
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained
- 1 can (7 oz) jalapeño slices, drained
- 8 oz vegan cream cheese
- White chili seasoning: ¼ teaspoon ground cloves, 1 tablespoon chili powder, 2 tablespoons cumin, 2 teaspoons garlic powder, 2 teaspoons maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional add-ons: 1 cup chopped bell pepper, ¾ cup chopped white onion, 1 cup cooked and peeled corn
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat a bit of oil or vegetable broth (for an oil-free option) in a casserole dish over medium heat. Add the minced garlic along with the optional chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften.
- Step 2: Stir in the vegetable broth, vegan cream cheese, white chili seasoning, and jalapeño slices. Let the mixture cook on medium heat for around 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Step 3: Season the chili with salt and pepper to taste. Add the drained white beans and the optional cooked corn, then cook for an additional 5 minutes to warm through.
- Step 4: Divide the chili into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy your hearty, flavorful vegetarian white chili!
Tips & Variations
- For extra heat, add more jalapeño slices or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
- Try adding a squeeze of lime or a handful of fresh cilantro before serving for a bright, fresh finish.
- Swap vegan cream cheese for coconut cream for a slightly different but still creamy texture.
Storage
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. This chili also freezes well—freeze in portions for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this chili without vegan cream cheese?
Yes, you can substitute vegan cream cheese with coconut cream or a plant-based sour cream alternative to maintain the creamy texture.
How can I make this chili spicier or milder?
To adjust the spice level, add more or fewer jalapeño slices or chili powder. For a milder version, omit jalapeños and reduce chili powder; for extra heat, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to taste.
Print
Vegetarian White Chili Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Vegetarian White Chili is a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for a quick and hearty meal. Made with nutrient-rich white beans, a medley of spices, and creamy vegan cream cheese, this chili offers a delicious plant-based alternative to traditional chili recipes. The recipe is oil-free when using vegetable broth for sautéing, and it includes optional veggies like bell pepper, onion, and corn for added texture and nutrition.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained
- 1 can (7 oz) jalapeño slices, drained
- 8 oz vegan cream cheese
- White chili seasoning: 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves, 1 tablespoon chili powder, 2 tablespoons cumin, 2 teaspoons garlic powder, 2 teaspoons maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ons
- 1 cup chopped bell pepper
- 3/4 cup chopped white onion
- 1 cup cooked corn kernels
Instructions
- Prepare the base: Heat a bit of oil or vegetable broth (for an oil-free version) in a casserole or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and, if using, the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté these for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften and become fragrant.
- Add liquids and seasonings: Pour in the vegetable broth, then add the vegan cream cheese, the white chili seasoning mix (ground cloves, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and maple syrup), and the drained jalapeño slices. Stir well and let the mixture cook on medium heat for approximately 10 minutes so the flavors meld together.
- Finish the chili: Season the chili with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the drained white beans and, if using, the cooked corn kernels. Let the chili simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat through and thicken slightly.
- Serve and enjoy: Ladle the chili into bowls or divide onto plates. Serve hot and enjoy a flavorful, warming vegetarian chili.
Notes
- For an oil-free version, use vegetable broth when sautéing the vegetables.
- Adjust the amount of jalapeños according to your preferred spice level.
- Optional vegetables like bell pepper, onion, and corn add extra texture and nutrients but can be omitted if desired.
- This recipe can be doubled for larger servings and reheated well.
- Serve with tortilla chips, avocado slices, or vegan sour cream for added richness.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: vegetarian chili, white chili, vegan chili, plant-based chili, easy chili recipe, meatless chili, white beans chili, dairy-free chili

