Easy One-Pot Chili Recipe: A Hearty Meal in Minutes
Warm up your evenings with this easy and delicious One-Pot Chili. Perfect for busy weeknights, this hearty dish combines tender ground beef, beans, and a medley of spices, all simmered together for a flavorful experience. In just one pot, you can create a meal that not only satisfies but also warms the soul.
First, you’ll brown the beef, allowing it to develop rich flavor. Then, add onions and garlic for that comforting aroma. Next, toss in tomatoes, beans, and chili powder. As the ingredients blend, the magic happens. Simmer it all together, and you’ll have a chili that’s both robust and filling.
Whether served on its own or topped with cheese and sour cream, this One-Pot Chili is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s perfect for leftovers, making it a great meal prep option. Enjoy a bowl tonight and savor the delightful blend of spices and textures.
What Makes This Recipe So Good?
- Convenience: Cooking everything in one pot simplifies the process and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of spices, ground beef, and beans creates a deep, satisfying flavor profile that everyone will love.
- Comfort Food: Chili is a classic comfort food that warms you up and feels like a hug in a bowl.
- Quick Cooking Time: With minimal prep and cooking time, you can enjoy a hearty meal in under an hour.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences, whether adding more vegetables or changing up the meat.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein from the beef and beans, this chili is both filling and nutritious.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze for later.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this chili is always a hit.
- Easily Scalable: You can easily double or halve the recipe to suit your needs.
- Tasty Toppings: Serve with cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro to elevate the flavor and presentation.
Key Ingredients
- Ground Beef: The main protein source that adds richness and heartiness.
- Onion: Provides a savory base flavor and sweetness.
- Garlic: Adds depth and aroma to the dish.
- Canned Tomatoes: Contributes acidity and moisture, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Beans: Use kidney beans, black beans, or pinto beans for added texture and protein.
- Chili Powder: The essential spice that gives the chili its signature heat and flavor.
- Cumin: Adds warmth and earthiness to the chili.
- Bell Peppers: Optional, but they add sweetness and color to the dish.
- Beef Broth: Provides a savory liquid base for the chili.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions, garlic, and bell peppers enhance the flavor and texture of your chili.
- Brown the Meat Properly: Take your time browning the ground beef. This caramelizes the meat and adds a deeper flavor.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by adding jalapeños or adjusting the amount of chili powder based on your preference.
- Let It Simmer: Allow the chili to simmer for at least 20-30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Experiment with Beans: Mix different types of beans for varied textures and tastes. You can also use canned beans for convenience.
- Add a Touch of Sweetness: A teaspoon of sugar or a splash of maple syrup can balance out the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions for a burst of freshness and color.
- Serve with Toppings: Offer a variety of toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado to elevate the dish.
- Make It Ahead: Chili often tastes even better the next day, so consider making it in advance for maximum flavor.
- Store Properly: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage.
Recipes You'll Enjoy...
Warm up your evenings with this easy and delicious One-Pot Chili. Perfect for busy weeknights, this hearty dish combines tender ground beef, beans, and a medley of spices, all simmered together for a flavorful experience. In just one pot, you can create a meal that not only satisfies but also warms the soul.
- 1 pound Ground Beef (450g)
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 28 oz Canned Tomatoes (diced tomatoes)
- 1 can Beans (15 ounces or 425 grams, kidney beans, drained and rinsed)
- 2 tbsp Chili Powder
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 medium Bell Peppers (chopped, optional)
- 2 cups Beef Broth
- 1 tsp Salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp Pepper (adjust to taste)
- Brown the Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add Vegetables
If using, add the chopped bell pepper and cook for another 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in Spices
Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the meat and vegetables with the spices, cooking for an additional minute to enhance the flavors.
- Add Tomatoes and Beans
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and add the drained kidney beans. Stir to combine.
- Pour in Broth
Add the beef broth to the pot, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
- Simmer
Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the chili simmer for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken.
- Taste and Adjust
After simmering, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or chili powder for additional flavor.
- Serve
Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve hot, garnished with your choice of toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.
- Enjoy
Dive into your hearty One-Pot Chili and enjoy a delicious meal!
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 300kcal
- Calories from Fat 135kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 15g24%
- Saturated Fat 5g25%
- Cholesterol 60mg20%
- Sodium 600mg25%
- Potassium 800mg23%
- Total Carbohydrate 30g10%
- Dietary Fiber 8g32%
- Sugars 4g
- Protein 20g40%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.