Save to Pinterest A hearty, flavorful chili packed with protein and fiber, perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe uses pantry staples for a fast, satisfying meal.
This chili is my go-to solution whenever my family craves comfort food that comes together fast. I love how versatile it is, and how it transforms pantry ingredients into a satisfying meal everyone enjoys.
Ingredients
- Ground beef (or ground turkey, or plant-based crumbles): 500 g (1 lb)
- Onion, diced: 1 medium
- Green bell pepper, diced: 1
- Garlic, minced: 2 cloves
- Diced tomatoes, undrained: 2 x 400 g (14 oz) cans
- Beans (kidney, black, or pinto), drained and rinsed: 2 x 400 g (14 oz) cans
- Low-sodium beef or vegetable broth: 250 ml (1 cup)
- Chili powder: 2 tbsp
- Ground cumin: 1 tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
- Dried oregano: 1/2 tsp
- Cayenne pepper (optional): 1/4 tsp
- Salt and black pepper: to taste
- Chopped fresh cilantro: for topping
- Sour cream or plain yogurt: for topping
- Shredded cheddar cheese: for topping
- Sliced jalapeños: for topping
Instructions
- Brown the Meat:
- In a large pot over medium heat, add ground beef. Cook, breaking up as it cooks, until browned (about 5 minutes). If using vegetarian crumbles, sauté as instructed on the package.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- Add diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 4 minutes until softened.
- Add Garlic:
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Season:
- Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne if desired, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat.
- Add Canned Ingredients:
- Pour in diced tomatoes with juices, beans, and broth. Mix thoroughly.
- Simmer:
- Bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust & Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning as preferred. Serve hot with toppings.
Save to Pinterest When my kids come home hungry after sports practice, this chili is always a winner at our dinner table. Everyone gets to choose their own toppings, making it a fun and interactive family meal.
Variations
Try adding corn, zucchini, or carrots for more vegetables, or swap spices for your favorite blend.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili with crusty bread, over rice, or alongside a cold lager for a classic pairing.
Allergen Information
Check labels on broth and canned beans for hidden gluten or soy. Omit cheese and sour cream for a dairy-free version.
Save to Pinterest This chili checks every box for fast, flavorful comfort. Make it your own with toppings or extra veggies.
Common Questions
- → Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the ground meat with plant-based crumbles and increase the beans to maintain protein and texture.
- → What type of beans work best in this dish?
Kidney, black, or pinto beans all complement the flavors and provide good nutrition when drained and rinsed.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
Modify or omit the cayenne pepper to suit mild or spicy preferences without altering the core taste.
- → What cooking vessel is recommended?
A large pot or Dutch oven works best for even cooking and simmering to develop flavors.
- → What are good serving suggestions?
Serve hot garnished with fresh cilantro, cheese, jalapeños, or sour cream, alongside crusty bread or rice.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, it naturally contains no gluten, but double-check canned ingredients to avoid hidden sources.