Are you looking for a quick and delicious dinner that the whole family will love? Well, you’ve come to the right place! I’m excited to share my Best Easy Chili Recipe for Quick and Tasty Dinners. This chili is not only packed with flavor but also comes together in no time, making it perfect for those busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a fantastic option if you’re also exploring easy pasta recipes for variety in your meal planning!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for 30-minute meals.
- Hearty and satisfying, ideal for quick family dinners.
- Versatile; customize with your favorite toppings!
- Great for meal prep and leftovers taste even better!
- Perfect for cozy nights in or casual gatherings with friends.
Ingredients
To whip up this delightful chili, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Ground Beef: 1 lb (450 g)
- Yellow Onion: 1 medium, diced
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Kidney Beans: 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed
- Black Beans: 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed
- Diced Tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 oz)
- Tomato Paste: 2 tbsp
- Beef Broth: 1 cup
- Olive Oil: 1 tbsp
- Chili Powder: 2 tbsp
- Ground Cumin: 1 tsp
- Smoked Paprika: 1 tsp
- Salt and Black Pepper: To taste
- Optional Garnishes: Shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, fresh cilantro
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your delicious chili:
- Begin by dicing the onion and mincing the garlic.
- Drain and rinse the kidney and black beans to remove excess sodium and preserve their texture.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Cook until browned, ensuring it’s fully cooked through.
- Drain any excess fat to keep the chili lean.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef.
- Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and soft, releasing its natural sweetness.
- Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir well to coat the meat and onions with the spices.
- Let it cook for another minute to allow the spices to bloom and release their flavors.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato paste, and beef broth.
- Stir to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover the pot and let it simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- This allows the flavors to meld together and the chili to thicken to your desired consistency.
- Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or a finely chopped jalapeño pepper during the simmering process.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your chili turns out perfectly:
- For a richer flavor, let the chili simmer longer if you have the time.
- Feel free to experiment with different beans or add corn for a sweet crunch.
- If you’re looking for a Chili Recipe Crockpot Easy Quick option, you can easily adapt this recipe for your slow cooker!
- Don’t skip the garnishes! They add a wonderful texture and flavor contrast.
- Make a double batch and freeze half for a quick meal later!
How to Serve
Serving your chili is just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas:
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and chopped green onions for a classic touch.
- Serve it with warm cornbread or over a bed of rice for a filling meal.
- Pair it with a fresh salad or some tortilla chips for a delightful crunch.
- For a twist, try it over baked potatoes or as a filling for tacos!
Make Ahead and Storage
This chili is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store it:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the chili in individual portions for up to 3 months.
- Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth if it thickens too much.
- Leftover chili can also be used in other dishes, like chili mac or as a topping for nachos!
Now that you have this easy chili beans recipe in your back pocket, you’ll never have to worry about what to make for dinner again! If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out my Best Ever Beef Chili or my Classic Slow Cooker Chili for more delicious options. Happy cooking!
Best Easy Chili Recipe for Quick and Tasty Dinners
Ingredients
Method
- Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
- Cook the ground beef until browned, then add onions and garlic, sauté until translucent.
- Add spices, tomatoes, tomato paste, and broth; stir well.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning; serve with optional garnishes.