Save Fluffy baked potatoes topped with a hearty, budget-friendly chili made from beans, tomatoes, and warming spices&a satisfying, comforting meal perfect for any day.
I remember serving these chili-style baked potatoes at a family potluck once&they were such a hit that even the kids went back for seconds. This is a simple recipe I turn to whenever we crave comfort food with a wholesome twist.
Ingredients
- Potatoes: 4 large russet potatoes, scrubbed
- Chili Topping: 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 medium onion (finely chopped), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 bell pepper (any color, diced), 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon chili powder, ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon dried oregano, 1 can (400 g/14 oz) chopped tomatoes, 1 can (400 g/14 oz) kidney beans (drained and rinsed), 1 can (400 g/14 oz) black beans (drained and rinsed), ½ teaspoon salt or to taste, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
- Toppings (optional): 60 g (½ cup) shredded cheddar cheese, 4 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt, 2 spring onions (thinly sliced), fresh cilantro (chopped)
Instructions
- Prepare Potatoes:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Prick potatoes several times with fork, rub with salt, and place directly on oven rack. Bake for 50–60 minutes until tender when pierced with a knife.
- Make Chili:
- While potatoes bake, heat olive oil in saucepan over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper for 5 minutes until softened.
- Spice It Up:
- Stir in cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and oregano. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Main Ingredients:
- Add chopped tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Bring to simmer and cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Assemble:
- When potatoes are ready, split open and fluff insides with fork. Spoon generous amounts of chili over each potato.
- Toppings and Serve:
- Add desired toppings and serve hot.
Save 
Save Sharing these baked potatoes always reminds me of cozy family evenings, everyone gathered around the table, passing toppings and sharing laughs. It&s wonderful to have something so hearty that everyone enjoys together.
Required Tools
Oven, saucepan, wooden spoon, knife, and cutting board are all you need to prepare this meal from start to finish.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy if you choose cheese or sour cream. The recipe is naturally gluten-free but check the labels on canned goods and spices to confirm.
Nutritional Information
Each serving without toppings contains approximately 370 calories, 5 g total fat, 66 g carbohydrates, and 14 g protein.
Save 
Save Give these chili-style baked potatoes a try and enjoy fuss-free comfort with every bite. They are sure to make dinner a little more special.
Kitchen Tips & Answers
- → How do you ensure the potatoes bake evenly?
Prick the potatoes several times with a fork to allow steam to escape and bake them directly on the oven rack at 200°C (400°F) for 50–60 minutes until tender.
- → Can different types of beans be used in the chili?
Yes, pinto or cannellini beans can substitute kidney and black beans for a different texture and flavor.
- → What spices give the chili its warm flavor?
A combination of ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and dried oregano creates the chili’s comforting and fragrant profile.
- → Are there vegan options for toppings?
Yes, you can replace cheddar and sour cream with plant-based cheese and dairy-free yogurt alternatives to keep it vegan-friendly.
- → How do you thicken the chili sauce?
Simmer the tomato and bean mixture uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing excess liquid to evaporate and the chili to thicken.