Hearty Weeknight Chili Ready in Under an Hour
Hearty Weeknight Chili Ready In Under An Hour
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Craving Comfort? Let's Talk Easy Chili Recipe!
Ever have one of those days? You know, when only something warm, comforting, and ridiculously easy will do? That's when easy chili recipe comes to the rescue.
This ain't your fancy, slow-cooked affair. This is proper comfort food chili , ready in under an hour.
Why This Chili is Your New Best Mate
This beef chili recipe is proper easy, even your dog could almost make it! Seriously though, it's a one-pot wonder packed with flavour.
Think rich, savory ground beef, tender beans, and just the right amount of spice to warm you up from the inside out.
It's a classic for a reason.
The beauty of this recipe? It's ready in under an hour, meaning you get a hearty meal with little effort.
We are talking of 55 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for those weeknight chili cravings when takeaway just won't cut it.
Plus, you will have enough for 6-8 lucky people. So, grab your biggest pot and lets start this quick chili recipe now!
The Good Stuff Inside
Honestly, the magic is in the simplicity. This easy chili recipe with ground beef stars, well, ground beef, obviously. We are talking about beans, tomatoes, and a blend of chili spices that'll make your kitchen smell amazing.
It’s got a decent amount of fibre from the beans, it is also loaded with protein, and is really satisfying.
Its a chili recipe for beginners . What's not to love?
Alright, let's dive into what you'll need to whip up this amazing easy chili recipe ! Seriously, this is the best easy chili recipe you'll ever make.
No fancy chef skills are needed. Promise!
Ingredients & Equipment
Let's gather everything to nail this quick chili recipe . Honestly, it's simpler than you think. It's the ultimate comfort food chili for a chilly evening.
I've tweaked this recipe over the years. I have made it a perfect weeknight chili . Now, it's your turn.
Main Ingredients
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon ( 15 ml ) - It’s not that serious if you use whatever oil you want. I prefer olive, though.
- Yellow onion: 1 large , chopped (about 1 1/2 cups ) - White onion works too!
- Garlic: 2 cloves , minced - Fresh is always best, but the jarred stuff works in a pinch.
- Green bell pepper: 1 , chopped (about 1 cup ) - Adds a nice little sweetness.
- Red bell pepper: 1 , chopped (about 1 cup ) - More colour, more fun!
- Ground beef: 1.5 pounds ( 680g ) (80/20 blend) - The fat adds flavor, don’t skimp!
- Salt: 1 teaspoon ( 5ml ) - Enhances all the flavors.
- Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon ( 2.5ml ) - A little goes a long way.
- Chili powder: 2 tablespoons ( 30ml ) - The heart of the chili!
- Ground cumin: 1 teaspoon ( 5ml ) - Adds a warm, earthy note.
- Dried oregano: 1/2 teaspoon ( 2.5ml ) - Brings a touch of the Mediterranean.
- Cayenne pepper: 1/4 teaspoon ( 1.25ml ) (optional) - For those who like it hot!
- Crushed tomatoes: 1 (28 ounce / 794g) can - Makes the base nice and rich.
- Kidney beans: 1 (15 ounce / 425g) can , drained and rinsed - Essential for that classic chili feel.
- Black beans: 1 (15 ounce / 425g) can , drained and rinsed - Adds a nice contrast.
- Beef broth: 1 cup ( 240ml ) (low-sodium) - Adds moisture and depth.
- Tomato paste: 1 tablespoon ( 15ml ) - Intensifies the tomato flavor.
For the ground beef, look for a blend that's not too lean. A little fat renders down and adds so much to the flavor.
Trust me, it makes a difference in this beef chili recipe . This is totally fine and simple chili ingredients are also ok!
Seasoning Notes
Honestly, the spice combo is where the magic happens. Don't be shy! If you don't have oregano, Italian seasoning works great as a sub.
A dash of smoked paprika can add a lovely depth too. You know? Spice it as you like! And that’s how you do a chili recipe for beginners .
Equipment Needed
- Large pot or Dutch oven: This is where all the magic happens for this one-pot chili recipe .
- Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring!
- Can opener: Obvs!
- Cutting board: For chopping those veggies.
- Chef's knife: A good knife makes all the difference.
If you don't have a Dutch oven, a large, heavy-bottomed pot will do just fine. Also, don't stress if you don't have every single tool.
This 30-minute chili (okay, maybe slightly longer!) is all about ease.
So, are you ready to start cooking? I am! Let's get started!
Okay, let's dive into making some proper good chili. This ain't your fancy restaurant version, mind you. This is a hearty, easy chili recipe you can whip up on a weeknight , even if you're knackered after work.
I'm talkin' comfort food chili at its finest. Trust me, even the most novice cook can nail this chili recipe for beginners .
Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place Magic
Before you even think about turning on the hob, let's get our ducks in a row. This essential mise en place will save you a massive headache later.
Chop one large yellow onion (about 1 1/2 cups). Mince two cloves of garlic and dice one green and one red bell pepper (roughly 1 cup each).
Got it? Good. This is your foundation for the best easy chili recipe . You'll thank me later.
Let's Cook: One-Pot Chili Goodness
This one-pot chili recipe is all about simplicity. Seriously, washing up is the worst, isn't it?
- In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion for around 5 minutes until softened. Then, chuck in the garlic and peppers, cooking for another 3 minutes until fragrant. Oh my gosh, the smell is amazing!
- Add 1.5 pounds of ground beef . Brown it, breaking it up with a spoon, and drain off any excess fat. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper . Honestly, draining the fat is crucial – nobody wants greasy chili.
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of chili powder , 1 teaspoon of cumin , 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano , and a pinch of cayenne pepper if you're feeling brave. Cook for 1 minute .
- Pour in a 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes , a 15-ounce can each of drained kidney and black beans , 1 cup of beef broth , and 1 tablespoon of tomato paste . Give it a good stir.
- Bring the chili to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for at least 30 minutes , or up to 1 hour , stirring every now and then. The longer it simmers, the better it gets.
Pro Tips for Chili Perfection
Want to take your quick chili recipe to the next level? Don't skimp on the simmering time. That's where the magic happens.
A common mistake is not tasting and adjusting the seasoning. Add more chili powder or cayenne for a bigger kick.
And if you're short on time, this 30-minute chili is still a winner, just don't expect the same depth of flavour as a longer simmer.
You know? At the end of the day the simple chili ingredients make all the difference.
Recipe Notes: Your Chili Companion
Alright, you've got the recipe for this amazing easy chili recipe , now let's talk shop. Honestly, every recipe has its little secrets and tricks.
I'm here to share mine so you can absolutely nail this comfort food chili . Trust me, these notes are gold.
Plating Like a Pro: Serving Suggestions
Okay, presentation matters, even for chili. Don't just slop it in a bowl! Firstly, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Then, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar is classic for this easy chili recipe with ground beef . Finally, some chopped green onions or fresh cilantro adds a pop of color.
Got some tortilla chips? Bang them in! On the side, cornbread is awesome. Or, crusty bread works a charm for dipping.
Storage Sorted: Keeping it Fresh
So, you've got leftovers? No worries! This beef chili recipe keeps well. Let it cool completely before refrigerating. It's good for 3-4 days in the fridge, no worries! If you want to freeze it, use freezer-safe containers.
It will last for 2-3 months . Reheat gently on the stovetop, or in the microwave. Stir occasionally!
Remix Time: Variations
Fancy a change? Try swapping ground beef for turkey or even plant-based mince. Suddenly, we have a quick chili recipe .
Want a vegetarian twist? Use more beans or veggies like sweet potato. Add more beans, too. If it's autumn, butternut squash goes down well! If you're dairy-free, skip the cheese and sour cream and use a dollop of avocado instead!
Nutrition Nitty-Gritty: Goodness Inside
Look, I'm no nutritionist, but this one-pot chili recipe is pretty good for you. It's packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
It contains approximately 350-400 calories, 25-30g of protein, and 8-10g of fiber per serving. Those beans will keep you full for hours! Remember, this weeknight chili is all about balance and taste.
So there you have it! All the tips and tricks to make this best easy chili recipe your own. This 30-minute chili is all about simple pleasures.
Go get your pot on! Even a chili recipe for beginners is a guaranteed win.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this easy chili recipe really that easy? I'm a total beginner in the kitchen!
Absolutely! This chili recipe is designed with beginners in mind. It involves minimal chopping and mostly combining ingredients in a pot and letting them simmer. If you can stir a spoon, you can make this chili – no culinary wizardry required, mate!
Can I make this chili vegetarian or vegan? What substitutions can I use?
Definitely! To make it vegetarian, simply swap out the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or a mix of hearty veggies like mushrooms and zucchini. For a vegan version, ensure your beef broth is vegetable broth. You can even get creative and add other types of beans you fancy!
How can I adjust the spice level in this easy chili recipe? I like a bit of a kick!
If you're looking to turn up the heat, you've got options, bruv! You can add a finely chopped jalapeño along with the bell peppers for a fresh spice. Alternatively, increase the amount of cayenne pepper, but do it gradually, a little bit at a time, until you reach your desired level of fire.
How long does this chili last, and what's the best way to store it?
Properly stored, this chili will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days. Make sure it's cooled down completely before transferring it to an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove or in the microwave, easy peasy!
Can I make this easy chili recipe in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?
You bet! For a slow cooker, brown the beef and sauté the veggies as instructed, then transfer everything to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. In an Instant Pot, use the sauté function to brown the beef and veggies, then add the remaining ingredients and cook on high pressure for 20 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 10 minutes.
What are some good toppings to serve with this easy chili recipe?
The possibilities are endless, mate! Classic toppings include shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro. If you're feeling fancy, add some avocado slices, crumbled tortilla chips, or even a drizzle of hot sauce. It's all about what tickles your fancy!
