Quick, cozy, and loaded with flavor
This is the kind of chili you can toss together after school, between activities, or on a chilly day when you want something comforting. It uses simple pantry items and cooks in one pot, making cleanup easy.
🥣 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
1 tablespoon oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound ground beef or turkey
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 cup water or broth
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt (to taste)
½ teaspoon pepper
¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Optional Add-Ins:
½ cup corn
Diced bell peppers
A pinch of sugar (balances flavor)
A splash of lime juice
Hot sauce for heat
🍲 Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and cook until soft (about 3 minutes).
Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds.
2. Brown the Meat
Add ground beef or turkey.
Cook until no pink remains.
Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Add the Spices
Stir in:
Chili powder
Cumin
Paprika
Salt
Pepper
Let the spices cook for 30–60 seconds to deepen the flavor.
4. Add Beans, Tomatoes, & Sauce
Pour in:
Kidney beans
Black beans (optional)
Diced tomatoes
Tomato sauce
Mix well.
5. Add Water or Broth
Add about 1 cup to reach your desired thickness.
Give everything a good stir.
6. Simmer
Turn heat to low.
Cover and let simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
This helps all the flavors come together — the longer it simmers, the better it tastes.
⭐ Tips for the Best Easy Chili
Want it thicker? Simmer uncovered for a few minutes.
Too thick? Add a splash of water or broth.
Not spicy enough? Add crushed red pepper or hot sauce.
Prefer mild? Use only 1 tablespoon chili powder.
Vegetarian version: Skip the meat and add extra beans or veggies.
🍽️ Topping Ideas (Fun + Delicious)
Shredded cheese
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Green onions
Avocado slices
Tortilla chips
Cornbread on the side
Toppings make it extra cozy!
🍛 How to Serve Your Easy Chili
This chili goes great with:
Rice
Baked potatoes
Nachos
Pasta (makes “chili mac”)
A warm roll or toast
It also keeps beautifully for leftovers.
🧊 Make-Ahead Tips for Busy Days
Chili tastes even better the next day
It keeps in the fridge for 3–4 days
Freezes well for up to 3 months
Reheat in the microwave or on the stove
Perfect for meal prep or rushed evenings.
🌶️ Fun Variations
Chicken Chili
Swap beef for ground chicken.
Three-Bean Chili
Use kidney, pinto, and black beans.
Veggie Chili
Add carrots, corn, mushrooms, and bell peppers.
Chili Mac
Stir in cooked pasta at the end — so good!
🎉 Your Easy Chili Recipe for Busy Days Is Ready!
This chili is fast, flavorful, and perfect for lunches, dinners, or leftovers throughout the week. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, it’s one of the easiest comfort foods you can make at home.