Easy Chili Recipe
This Easy Chili Recipe is perfect for busy weeknights! It takes just 40 minutes from start to finish and uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. No fancy techniques or hours of simmering required, just dump everything in a pot and you’re done!
Try our Chicken Taco Soup that uses a can of chili beans as the secret ingredient! You won’t believe how good this soup is!
I make this chili all the time when I need something quick, filling, and satisfying. It’s the kind of recipe where you can basically set it and forget it while it simmers. Plus, everyone loves it, kids, adults, picky eaters, you name it! It’s become our go-to dinner when we need something warm and comforting without spending forever in the kitchen.
What you’ll love about this recipe for ground beef chili:
- SUPER QUICK – Ready in just 40 minutes with minimal hands-on time.
- SIMPLE INGREDIENTS – Uses pantry staples and one packet of seasoning for foolproof flavor.
- ONE-POT MEAL – Everything cooks in one pot for easy cleanup.
- CROWD PLEASER – The perfect balance of flavors that everyone will love.
Here’s the Deal:
Every recipe on our site has only 5 ingredients, no exceptions! We don’t count water, salt, or pepper because everyone has those!
Recipe Ingredients
You’ll need the following ingredients to make this best chili recipe:
- Ground beef
- Crushed tomatoes
- Kidney beans
- Chili seasoning mix
- Small onion
INGREDIENT NOTES:
- Ground Beef: 80/20 works great, but you can use lean if you prefer less grease to drain.
- Chili Seasoning: Any brand works – Williams, McCormick, store brand, whatever you have on hand.
- Kidney Beans: Make sure to drain and rinse them to remove excess sodium.
How to make Easy Chili Recipe step-by-step:
*Check out the quick visual guides below. For full instructions and ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the end.
Step 1: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain excess grease if needed.
Step 2: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, and chili seasoning.
Step 3: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
Step 5: Serve hot with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or crackers.
Pro Tip:
Let the chili simmer a bit longer if you have time, the flavors get even better after 30-40 minutes of simmering. Just keep an eye on it and add a splash of water if it gets too thick.
Storage and Reheating:
Store leftover chili in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This chili actually tastes better the next day!
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick.
Freezing: This freezes great for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then freeze in portions for easy meals later.
Additions & Substitutions
ADDITIONS:
- More Beans: Add black beans, pinto beans, or white beans for extra protein and fiber.
- Vegetables: Throw in diced bell peppers, corn, or jalapeños for more flavor and nutrition.
- Heat: Add hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños if you like it spicy.
- Toppings: Serve with shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, cilantro, or corn chips.
SUBSTITUTIONS:
- Ground Meat: Try ground turkey, or ground chicken instead of beef.
- Beans: Use any beans you like, black beans, pinto beans, or a mix all work great.
- Tomatoes: Use diced tomatoes or tomato sauce if that’s what you have on hand.
- Seasoning: Make your own chili seasoning with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika if you don’t have a packet.
FAQs about this ground beef chili recipe:
Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes! Brown the beef and onions first, then add everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
How can I make this thicker? Let it simmer uncovered for longer to evaporate more liquid, or mash some of the beans against the side of the pot to thicken the base.
Can I double this recipe? Absolutely! Just use a bigger pot and double all the ingredients. The cooking time stays about the same.
What Can I Serve with easy chili recipes?
This chili recipe is perfect on its own, but it’s also great with cornbread, crackers, tortilla chips, or over rice or baked potatoes for a heartier meal.
We’re excited for you to try this Easy Chili Recipe! After you make it, please leave a rating to let me know your thoughts on it – We’re eager to hear if you loved it as much as we do!
Easy Chili Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, and chili seasoning.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
- Serve hot with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or crackers.
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