There’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of chili to make everything feel a little cozier. Whether it’s a chilly evening, game day with friends, or just a craving for comfort food, this Easy Chili Recipe checks all the boxes. It’s rich, flavorful, and made with simple pantry ingredients—perfect for beginners or seasoned home cooks alike.
This chili comes together in one pot with minimal fuss but delivers maximum flavor. The blend of spices, tender beans, and savory ground beef makes it a family favorite that you’ll want to cook again and again.
Recipe Info
| Field | Info |
|---|---|
| Category | Dinner / Soup / Stew |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 45 minutes |
| Servings | 6 servings |
| Calories | ~350 kcal per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 lbs ground beef (or ground turkey for lighter option)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 2 (15 oz) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Brown the beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain excess grease if needed. - Sauté the veggies
Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pot. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened and fragrant. - Add tomatoes and beans
Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, kidney beans, and black beans. Mix well. - Season and simmer
Add beef broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened. - Taste and adjust
Taste the chili and adjust seasonings to your liking—add more chili powder for boldness or a pinch of sugar if you want to balance acidity. - Serve hot
Ladle chili into bowls, top with cheese, sour cream, or green onions, and enjoy!
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Thicker chili: Simmer longer uncovered to reduce liquid and concentrate flavors.
- Make ahead: Chili tastes even better the next day once flavors meld—perfect for meal prep.
- Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Recipe Variations
- Protein swap: Try ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a lighter version.
- Spicy kick: Add fresh jalapeños, hot sauce, or extra cayenne if you love heat.
- Veggie-loaded: Add corn, zucchini, or mushrooms to boost flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with warm cornbread or buttery biscuits for dipping.
- Top with shredded cheddar, sour cream, avocado slices, or tortilla chips.
- Pair with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
This Easy Chili Recipe is proof that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated. With simple steps and big flavors, it’s the kind of dish that brings people together—whether it’s a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends. Cozy, hearty, and always satisfying, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat all season long.