Easy Chili Recipe

This Easy Chili Recipe is a classic one-pot meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. Made with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and spices, it’s quick to prepare and packed with bold flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or any time you crave a hearty bowl of homemade chili.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 30 minutes with minimal prep
• Uses pantry staples for convenience
• Great for meal prep and leftovers
• Easy to customize with your favorite toppings or add-ins

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 cup water or beef broth (adjust for desired thickness)

Directions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot. Cook for 3–4 minutes, until the onion softens.
3. Stir in the beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne if using.
4. Pour in the water or broth and stir to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
• Total Time: 30–35 minutes

Variations

• Meat Swap: Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
• Vegetarian: Omit meat and add extra beans or chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
• Slow Cooker: Brown the beef and sauté the onion and garlic, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours.
• Spicy: Add jalapeños, chipotle peppers in adobo, or extra cayenne.
• Beans: Try pinto beans or a chili bean mix instead of or in addition to the kidney and black beans.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Reheat: Warm in a saucepan over medium heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

FAQs

Can I make this chili ahead of time?

Yes, chili tastes even better the next day. Store it in the fridge and reheat as needed.

What toppings go well with chili?

Shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, jalapeños, chopped cilantro, and tortilla chips are all great options.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, use about 2 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes, but the flavor may be less concentrated.

How do I thicken chili?

Let it simmer uncovered longer to reduce the liquid, or mash some beans into the chili for natural thickening.

How do I make chili less spicy?

Use less chili powder or skip the cayenne pepper. You can also serve it with dairy-based toppings to mellow the heat.

Is chili gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all canned ingredients and seasonings are verified gluten-free.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just use a larger pot and adjust the seasonings to taste as you scale up.

What should I serve with chili?

Cornbread, rice, baked potatoes, or a side salad all pair well with chili.

Can I make this in the Instant Pot?

Yes, use the sauté function for browning and then pressure cook on high for 10 minutes with a natural release.

How long does chili last in the fridge?

It will keep well for 3–4 days in an airtight container.

Conclusion

This Easy Chili Recipe is your answer to a hearty, flavorful meal with minimal effort. With flexible ingredients and quick cook time, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd or preparing ahead. Make it your own with fun toppings and serve it with classic sides like cornbread for a satisfying dish every time.

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