Incredible, hearty, and undeniably comforting, this Easy Chili recipe has been a staple in my household for years. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a casual gathering with friends, this dish brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. With a blend of ground beef, beans, and spices simmered to perfection, it’s a versatile meal that adapts to any occasion, making it a must-try for anyone craving a simple yet delicious home-cooked meal.
What makes this recipe special
Why should you consider making this Easy Chili? For starters, it ticks all the boxes for a quick weeknight dinner. You can whip it up in about 30 minutes, and it uses everyday ingredients that you likely have on hand. Plus, it’s budget-friendly! Feeding a family or a group? This chili stretches your dollar while delivering comforting flavors that everyone loves. It’s a win-win when you want a filling dish without breaking the bank.
“This chili is seriously the best! It’s quick to make and always a crowd-pleaser. I can’t believe how much flavor is packed in such simple ingredients!”
Preparing Easy Chili
Making Easy Chili is straightforward and only involves a few steps. First, you’ll brown the ground beef, then sauté the onion and garlic for that aromatic base. After that, it’s simply a matter of stirring in the spices and canned goodness, letting everything simmer until the flavors meld beautifully. The entire process is efficient and user-friendly, perfect for beginner cooks and busy weeknights alike.
Gather these items
Here’s what you’ll need to create this Easy Chili:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions
Feel free to swap in ground turkey or use vegetable broth instead of beef for a lighter or vegetarian take on this classic recipe.
Step-by-step instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Stir in the chili powder and cumin. Cook for another minute until the spices are fragrant.
- Add the drained kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir everything to combine well.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Serve hot, allowing each diner to choose their favorite toppings.
Best ways to enjoy it
Chili is all about personal preference, and there are many ways to serve this Easy Chili. Consider offering a hearty slice of cornbread or a crisp side salad to accompany the dish. For a cozy evening, top each bowl with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and sliced green onions to elevate the flavor and presentation.
How to store
To keep your leftovers fresh, let the chili cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to save it for even longer, freeze it in individual portions. Make sure to use freezer bags, removing as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Pro chef tips
For an even richer flavor, consider browning the beef in batches. This ensures better caramelization and depth. If you like your chili on the spicier side, add a diced jalapeño or some diced chili peppers when sautéing the onion and garlic. Additionally, letting the chili simmer longer will deepen the flavors, so don’t be afraid to go for a longer cooking time if your schedule allows.
Creative twists
While this Easy Chili is fantastic as-is, feel free to get creative! For a smoky flavor, add a dash of smoked paprika or some chipotle chili powder. Want to make it vegetarian? Swap the ground beef for lentils or mushrooms. You can also experiment with toppings—try avocado slices, crispy tortilla strips, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for a delightful kick.
Common questions
What is the prep time for this chili recipe?
The prep time for this Easy Chili is about 10 minutes, and the total cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Can I substitute the ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based protein are excellent alternatives.
How do I ensure my chili has the right amount of spice?
Start with the recommended amount of chili powder, and taste as you go. You can always add more spicy elements if desired, like red pepper flakes or jalapeños!
This Easy Chili recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience packed with flavor, comfort, and memories waiting to be made. Enjoy!
PrintEasy Chili
A comforting and hearty chili dish made with ground beef, beans, and spices, perfect for weeknight dinners and gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Stir in the chili powder and cumin. Cook for another minute until the spices are fragrant.
- Add the drained kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir everything to combine well.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Serve hot, allowing each diner to choose their favorite toppings.
Notes
For a lighter or vegetarian option, substitute ground turkey or use vegetable broth instead of beef.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
