What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This easy chili recipe is perfect for busy days or cozy nights, delivering big flavors with little effort. You’ll love it because it’s quick to whip up, even on hectic evenings. The hearty mix of beans, meat, and spices makes it satisfying and filling. It’s super versatile, so you can tweak it to suit your taste or pantry. Plus, leftovers taste even better the next day, making it a winner for meal prep!
Recipe
This easy chili recipe is perfect for a quick, hearty meal that’s packed with flavor. It’s simple to make and uses ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want leftovers for the week, this chili won’t disappoint.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and water.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.
Notes:
- For a spicier chili, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño.
- This recipe can easily be doubled for larger gatherings.
Equipment:
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
4-6 servings
Nutrition
For a classic chili recipe, the nutritional value per serving is essential for maintaining a balanced diet. Here’s a breakdown of the key nutrients:
Calories: 350
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 45mg
Sodium: 800mg
Total Carbohydrates: 35g
Dietary Fiber: 8g
Sugars: 6g
Protein: 25g
What To Serve With It
I love serving my chili with warm, fluffy cornbread—it’s the perfect match for soaking up all that delicious sauce. Topping it with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro adds extra flavor and makes it look inviting. Sometimes I’ll even toss in some diced avocado for a creamy twist!
Cornbread Pairings
Cornbread’s slightly sweet, crumbly texture makes it a perfect match for hearty dishes like chili. I love how it balances the spicy, savory flavors, especially when it’s warm and fresh from the oven. Sometimes, I’ll add a dollop of butter to melt right into each piece, making it even more comforting. Cornbread also works well as a side for stews or smoky barbecue, but with chili, it’s unbeatable. It’s great for soaking up every last bit of broth, too. Whether you bake it in a skillet or muffins, it’s a simple addition that elevates the meal every time.
Topping Ideas
Chili isn’t complete without a handful of tasty toppings to make it your own. I love adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess, or sprinkling shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese for melty goodness. Diced onions or green onions add a fresh crunch, while avocado slices bring a buttery touch. Corn chips or tortilla strips give it a satisfying crunch, and a squeeze of lime brightens the flavors. Jalapeños or hot sauce kick up the heat if you’re feeling bold. Don’t forget fresh cilantro or a handful of parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
