Canned chili is the ultimate easy comfort food—perfect for quick meals, camping trips, or topping off a pile of nachos. But with so many options on the shelves, how do you know which one is actually worth eating?
To find out, I taste-tested 15 different kinds, from classic grocery store staples to cult favorites, ranking them on flavor, texture, spice level, and overall chili satisfaction. Some were meaty and rich, others were bean-heavy and bold—but only one stood out as the true champion.
So, which canned chili deserves a spot in your pantry? Let’s dig in!
1. Tony Packo’s Cafe Chili with Beans
Starting with Tony Packo’s Cafe Chili with Beans, this hearty option brings Hungarian flair to your table. If you crave something bold yet comforting, this chili offers a perfect balance of spices and hearty beans. Its rich, savory taste is complemented by a hint of paprika.
You’ll find that this chili’s flavor profile is unique. How this chili manages to combine complex flavors with simplicity is truly impressive. Bean lover or not, Tony Packo’s dominated the competition with its bold flavor, hearty texture, and just the right kick of spice to take the top spot.
2. Hormel Chili with Beans
Hormel Chili with Beans is a classic choice that many have grown to love. Its robust flavor and satisfying texture make it a staple in many households. When you open a can, the aroma of spices and meat invites you in.
It’s perfect for those who enjoy a traditional chili with a generous helping of beans. How this chili manages to capture the essence of home-cooked comfort is remarkable. Whether for a quick meal or a topping, Hormel delivers consistently.
3. Wolf Brand No-Bean Lean Beef Chili
Wolf Brand No-Bean Lean Beef Chili is a meaty delight for those who prefer their chili without beans. With its lean beef and rich spices, it offers a satisfying, hearty flavor. If you’re a fan of beef-centric dishes, this chili is a must-try.
How it manages to deliver such a robust taste without beans is decent, but it could be better. Craving a delicious chili for your barbecue or a laid-back dinner? Wolf Brand’s chili is a solid choice, though it falls short of being truly outstanding.
4. Wendy’s Chili with Beans
Wendy’s Chili with Beans, known for its restaurant fame, is now available in a can. It’s a comforting choice for those who love the familiar taste of Wendy’s iconic chili. With a blend of savory spices and hearty beans, it offers a well-rounded flavor.
If you’re in the mood for something recognizable yet delicious, this canned version does not disappoint. How the canned variety captures the essence of the restaurant experience is indeed commendable.
5. Jack Link’s Chili with No Beans
Jack Link’s Chili with No Beans is a meaty option for those who prefer their chili without legumes. Packed with savory spices and lean meat, it offers a hearty, satisfying flavor. Hence, it’s ideal for those who enjoy a protein-rich meal.
If you’re a fan of meat-centric flavors, this chili is a solid choice. From camping trips to cozy dinners, Jack Link’s chili delivers a robust taste that satisfies. Enjoy it on its own or as a topping for your favorite dishes—it’s dependable and sure to please, but doesn’t stand out as a game-changer.
6. Stagg No-Bean Natural Chili
Next on the list is Stagg No-Bean Natural Chili. Some people might prefer their chili without beans, and this one is for them. Packed with lean beef and rich spices, it provides a meaty flavor without the beans.
Moreover, the texture is smooth and ideal for those who prefer a hearty, protein-packed meal. While it lacks beans, it still offers decent flavor. Though flavorful, it lacks the depth and complexity that would really elevate the dish. Served over rice or enjoyed solo, it’s a solid choice, but chili lovers might find themselves hoping for a bit more boldness.
7. Nalley Original Chili Con Carne with Beans
If you’re looking for a classic, Nalley Original Chili Con Carne with Beans might be your go-to. Packed with flavor, this chili combines tender meat with a hearty portion of beans. It offers a taste that’s both savory and slightly spicy, appealing to those who enjoy a little kick.
Hence, it’s a versatile option, perfect for nachos or on its own. However, despite its potential, Nalley’s chili didn’t quite meet expectations. While it’s decent, it falls short of the bold, satisfying flavor you’d hope for. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to it, you might find yourself wishing for a bit more from this chili.
8. Hormel No-Beans Chili
Hormel No-Beans Chili is a classic choice for those who prefer their chili without legumes. Packed with rich spices and hearty meat, it delivers a satisfying flavor without the beans. If you’re looking for a protein-rich option, this chili is ideal.
How it maintains the essence of traditional chili while being bean-free is noteworthy. Enjoying it as a topping or as a meal, Hormel’s no-beans variety is a dependable choice that always delivers a satisfying, hearty flavor.
9. Dennison’s Chili Con Carne with Beans
Dennison’s Chili Con Carne with Beans promises a hearty, bean-filled chili, but it falls flat in terms of flavor. While the texture is thick and meaty, the spices feel unbalanced, lacking the depth and complexity you’d expect from a robust chili.
If you’re looking for something filling, it delivers in quantity, but the taste just doesn’t hit the mark. Whether served with bread or over rice, the richness you might crave is missing, leaving this chili feeling a bit underwhelming.
10. Amy’s Organic Medium Chili
Amy’s Organic Medium Chili is a solid choice for those who prefer organic options, offering a decent spice level and wholesome ingredients. While the beans and vegetables create a satisfying texture, the overall flavor falls a bit short of greatness.
While it stands out for its sustainability, the chili could definitely pack more punch in terms of flavor. It’s good, but with a bit more depth and seasoning, it could easily be much better. Whether enjoyed as a meal or dip, Amy’s Organic Chili is comforting, but it leaves you wanting a little more.
11. Campbell’s Chunky Chili with Beans
Campbell’s Chunky Chili with Beans promises a hearty, satisfying meal, but unfortunately, it doesn’t quite live up to expectations. While it has generous chunks of meat and beans, the flavor feels more bland than robust, leaving you wishing for a little more excitement.
If you’re looking for something substantial, this chili might fill the spot, but it lacks the depth and complexity you’d hope for in a hearty dish. Despite the hearty texture, Campbell’s Chunky Chili doesn’t quite deliver the bold, satisfying flavor it promises.
12. Hormel Turkey Chili with Beans
For those seeking a lighter alternative, Hormel’s Turkey Chili with Beans offers a decent option, but it falls short in flavor. While it’s hearty and lean, the spices and tender turkey don’t quite deliver the depth and richness of traditional chili.
While it’s a good choice for those watching their calorie intake, it doesn’t quite satisfy the craving for a bold, flavorful chili. Whether enjoyed alone or as a topping, it’s a lighter option, but it may not be the most exciting choice for chili lovers.
13. Pacific Foods Organic Harvest Black Bean Chili
Pacific Foods Organic Harvest Black Bean Chili may appeal to those who enjoy a bean-forward dish, but it doesn’t quite deliver the bold flavor you might expect. While made with organic ingredients, the taste feels a bit lackluster, and the black beans, though unique, don’t provide the depth or richness found in other chilis.
If you’re looking for something that’s both healthy and tasty, this chili might fall short. Whether as a meal or side dish, it lacks the excitement and depth to truly elevate your meal.
14. Stagg Dynamite Hot Chili with Beans
For those who love a spicy kick, Stagg Dynamite Hot Chili with Beans promises a fiery experience. While packed with bold flavors, it might be too intense for some, delivering heat that builds with every bite.
Its combination of spice and savory goodness is exciting, but it can overwhelm if you’re not a fan of heat. Whether you’re a chili enthusiast or just looking for a bit of fire, Stagg’s Dynamite Hot Chili is sure to impress—just be ready for the heat!
15. Armour Star Chili with Beans
Armour Star Chili with Beans offers a classic taste, but its flavor and texture fall a bit flat. While it tries to bring comfort, the blend of spices and beans doesn’t quite hit the mark for those craving something truly satisfying.
If you’re planning a quick dinner or game day snack, it’s a convenient choice, but it lacks the excitement and depth that other chilis offer. While it delivers consistent quality, it may not stand out as a go-to option, whether enjoyed on its own or in your favorite recipe.