I Asked 4 Experts To Name the Best Canned Chili—They All Said the Same Thing

Whether it’s game day, an icy cold evening, or lunchtime on the slopes, chili is the dish I reach for when I want to be warmed from the inside out. And as much as I enjoy whipping chili up from scratch, it requires a fair amount of planning, prep, and time on the stove. So when I’m craving this childhood favorite on a whim, I often turn to store-bought, canned options. 

However, because the canned soup aisle is so overwhelming, I usually just grab the same brand of store-bought chili time and time again. To expand my horizons, I asked a handful of food pros what their favorite canned chili is. Surprisingly, they all cited the same brand.

The Food Professionals I Asked

• Natasha Fischer: Creator of the food blog Trader Joe’s List and operator of kitchenware line Pat Cooks
• Erin Clarke: Creator of the recipe blog Well Plated and best-selling author of Well Plated Cookbook and Well Plated Every Day
• Kat Marris: Private chef and recipe developer
• Patty Castillo: Content creator and founder of Trader Joe’s Aficionado

The Best Canned Chili, According to Food Pros

When it came to the number one canned chili pick, these knowledgeable food pros all agreed that Trader Joe’s Organic Vegetarian Chili is the way to go. “If you don't have time to slow simmer a pot of chili, Trader Joe’s Organic Vegetarian Chili is one of my favorites,” explains Clarke.

This store-bought option has everything you love and expect from a well-made chili. “This chili is packed with hearty beans, a thick tomato base, and just the right amount of spice,” says Fischer. Clarke agrees, adding, “It’s hearty and has a well-balanced spice blend that makes it satisfying even without meat.” 

This vegetarian chili contains textured pea protein for a plant-based protein boost and satisfying eating experience. “I love that the textured pea protein gives this chili a meaty texture and makes it more filling than most vegetarian chilis I've tried with its flavorful punch of chili powder and cumin,” shares Marris. 

This pea-based protein makes the chili an ideal option for those who can’t have soy products (common in many similar meatless chilis). And for the meat lovers out there, you could easily fortify this canned staple with some browned ground beef, pork, or turkey for a more substantial meal.

How the Pros Serve Trader Joe's Vegetarian Chili

Once this chili is heated to the perfect soul-warming temperature, each of these food pros enjoy it in different—and equally delicious—ways. “It's perfect just as it is, especially with a side of cornbread,” shares Castillo.

Marris likes to pour it over a baked potato for a filling dinner. “I love using it as a topper for nachos,” adds Fischer. Meanwhile, Clarke tops her TJ’s chili with plain Greek yogurt for extra protein. This chili would also be nothing short of exquisite atop a chili dog, nestled into a crusty bread bowl, stirred into a batch of mac and cheese, stuffed into empanadas, or used in a creative spin on shepherd’s pie.

This impressive vegetarian chili is also incredibly accessible, costing only $2.49 per can and available at most Trader Joe’s locations nationwide.