Weeknight Winner: Seriously Easy Chili
Need an easy chili recipe? This classic chili recipe with chili beans is ready in under an hour! A hearty, crowd-pleasing meal perfect for busy weeknights. Get the recipe!
Weeknight Winner: Seriously Easy Chili Recipe
Fancy a proper belly warmer? i'm talking about an easy chili recipe that's proper tasty, not some watery excuse for a stew.
Honestly, this is the best classic chili recipe i've knocked up!
This classic chili recipe isn't just a recipe; it's a hug in a bowl, perfect for those dreary days. it reminds me of bonfire night as a kid, the smell of the smoke and the taste of something warm and hearty.
This isn't just any beef chili recipe , it’s designed to be quick and easy.
Chili Recipe With Chili Beans : A Taste of Tex-Mex Goodness
This easy classic chili recipe brings a touch of tex-mex right to your table. forget complicated recipes, this is all about simple ingredients and big flavors.
We're talking about a basic chili recipe crockpot style, but on the hob for speed!
The beauty of this chili lies in its simplicity. it's perfect for a quick weeknight meal and can be easily adapted to your liking.
Fancy some 30 min chili ? get stuck in.
From Simple Ingredients to Hearty Goodness
This recipe clocks in at easy on the scale of difficulty. i reckon it'll take you 15 minutes of prep, and a further 40 minutes of cooking, that's it.
This recipe will give you 6 generous portions of the best chili .
We start with a base of onions, peppers, and proper ground beef, simmered in a rich tomato sauce with kidney beans and black beans.
All seasoned with a blend of chili spices that will make your tastebuds sing.
Chili Benefits: More Than Just Comfort Food
One of the great things about this chili is its fibre content, thanks to all those beans. a bowl of this easy chili recipe is like a boost for your gut health! it’s a cracking source of plant-based protein too.
This homemade chili recipe is the perfect dish for a cosy night in, a casual get-together with mates, or even a quick and easy salad prep meal for the week.
Its flavour is what makes it special. i've even known families to get together and cooking ham in this sauce at christmas for a little twist!
Right then, let's get this easy chili recipe cracking!
Ingredients & Equipment
Alright, let's chat about what you'll need for this easy chili recipe . Honestly, it's mostly stuff you probably already have kicking about.
Main Ingredients: No Fuss, Just Flavor
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon (15 ml) . Nothing fancy, just regular olive oil.
- Onion: 1 medium, chopped (US: about 1 cup; metric: about 150g). Brown or white is just fine.
- Green Bell Pepper: 1, chopped (US: about 1 cup; metric: about 150g). Adds a nice bit of sweetness.
- Ground Beef: 1 pound (US: about 450g; metric: 450g) . Quality wise, anything between 80/20 and 90/10 is great. Leaner means less grease to drain.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced . Don't be shy with the garlic, mate.
- Crushed Tomatoes: 1 (28-ounce) can (US: 794g; metric: 794g) . This is your base.
- Kidney Beans: 1 (15-ounce) can, rinsed (US: 425g; metric: 425g). Make sure you rinse them.
- Black Beans: 1 (15-ounce) can, rinsed (US: 425g; metric: 425g). Rinsing again, yeah?
- Tomato Sauce: 1 (15-ounce) can (US: 425g; metric: 425g) . Adds a bit of richness.
- Chili Seasoning: 1 packet (US: about 1.25oz; metric: about 35g). The secret weapon. Homemade Chili Seasoning is great too if you're feeling fancy!
- Ground Cumin: 1 teaspoon (US: about 5 ml; metric: about 5g) . For that authentic flavor.
- Smoked Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon (US: about 2.5 ml; metric: about 2.5g) . Adds a smoky depth.
- Cayenne Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (optional) (US: about 1.25 ml; metric: about 1.25g). Only if you want a bit of a kick!
- Beef Broth: 1 cup (US: about 240ml; metric: 240ml) . Adds some liquid.
- Salt and pepper to taste.
- Toppings: Shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, avocado slices.
Seasoning Notes: It's All About the Flavor Bomb
This easy classic chili recipe is all about that perfect blend of spices. cumin and chili powder are the stars, but that little bit of smoked paprika? chef's kiss! for a deeper, earthier flavor, try adding a pinch of cocoa powder.
Trust me on this one.
If you haven't got chili seasoning, don't sweat it! mix chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano and a bit of cayenne if you like it hot.
You can find proper instructions online if you're too busy to use our instructions.
Honestly, this Basic Chili Recipe Crockpot is super forgiving.
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple, Stupid!
For this chili recipe crockpot , you'll only need these essential bits:
- A large pot or Dutch oven. If you're doing Classic Crockpot Chili , obviously, a crockpot.
- A cutting board. Essential for chopping.
- A chef's knife. Because, well, you need to chop stuff.
Don't have a fancy dutch oven? no worries. any large pot will do. and if you're thinking of making chili recipe with chili beans in the microwave, just use something microwave-safe.
I have some easy microwave recipes to share in the future. don't worry about it too much!
Right, next up, instructions. Get your apron on!
Right then, let's get cracking on this "Easy Chili Recipe"! I'm proper chuffed to share this one, honestly.
Weeknight Winner: Seriously Easy Chili Recipe
Fancy a proper comforting meal without the faff? this hearty and flavorful chili recipe with chili beans is the business.
It’s perfect for those hectic weeknights when you just want something tasty and quick. think classic tex-mex flavours, packed with ground beef, beans, and tomatoes, simmered in a rich, smoky broth.
We are talking about the best chili . it’s comforting, totally customizable, and ready in under an hour! a real crowd-pleaser, even if your crowd is just you and the telly.
Some call it the best chili recipe .
Prep Steps: Essential Mise en Place
Right, first things first, let's get prepped. It makes the whole cooking process so much smoother. Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chop one medium onion and a green bell pepper. You'll need about 1 cup of each. Mince 2 cloves of garlic. Get your 1 pound of ground beef out.
- Open and rinse one 15-ounce can each of kidney beans and black beans. Have your 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes and a 15-ounce can of tomato sauce ready.
- Measure out your spices: 1 packet of chili seasoning, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and a pinch of cayenne pepper (if you like a bit of a kick).
- Grab a cup of beef broth.
Step-by-Step: From Raw to Ready in Under an Hour
Follow these steps and you will be closer to the Best Chili . Cook Time: 40 minutes .
- Sauté the chopped onion and bell pepper in 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add 1 pound of ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. Nobody likes greasy chili.
- Stir in the minced garlic and all those lovely spices. Cook for 1 minute, until fragrant and your kitchen smells amazing.
- Chuck in the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir it all together.
- Bring it to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 30 minutes , or up to an hour, stirring now and then. The longer it simmers, the better the flavours get to know each other. If you are doing a Slow Cooker Chili Recipe , you just need to let it cook a little longer.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve it hot, with all your favourite toppings!
Pro Tips for the Perfect Pot of Chili
Want to take your Easy Classic Chili Recipe to the next level? Here are a few tricks I've picked up over the years making this Homemade Chili Recipe .
- Low and Slow Wins: Simmering the chili for a good hour makes a massive difference. Trust me on this one. Also, using chuck steak will yield a Beef Chili Recipe of another level.
- Spice It Up: Adjust the amount of chili seasoning and cayenne pepper to suit your taste. Go wild!
- Don't Skip the Toppings: Toppings are essential! They add texture and flavour. Shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, avocado slices... the works!
And there you have it. a ridiculously easy chili recipe that's perfect for a cosy night in or a casual get-together.
Serve it up with some crusty bread, or even better, make it into a chilli cheese bake, your call. enjoy!
Right, let's get this chili chat cracking, shall we? we're talking about those little extras that elevate a bowl of easy chili recipe from "alright" to "oh my gosh, this is amazing!".
Think of these as the finishing touches on your masterpiece. i'm practically drooling already.
Recipe Notes
Serving Suggestions: Time to Plate Up!
So, you've got your easy classic chili recipe bubbling away. now what? presentation is key, my friend. don't just bung it in a bowl! for the best classic chili recipe , ladle that beef chili recipe into a nice, warm bowl.
A dollop of sour cream? yes, please. a sprinkle of shredded cheese? absolutely.
And for sides? think cornbread , obviously . or maybe some crispy tortilla chips for dipping. honestly, even a simple side salad can work wonders to cut through the richness of the chili.
Grab your salad prep gear!. as for drinks, a nice cold beer or even just a sparkling water with lime would be lush.
It will pair amazing with a nice homemade chili recipe
Storage Tips: Making That Chili Last
Right, so you've made a massive batch of my easy chili recipe , and you've got leftovers. Winner winner, chili dinner!
Refrigeration Guidelines : Just let it cool down completely first. Then, bung it in an airtight container and it'll happily sit in the fridge for about 3-4 days.
Freezing options : freezing is a dream. portion it out into freezer-safe bags or containers (leaving a little space for expansion, mind!).
It'll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. when you're ready to tuck in, just thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Reheating instructions : give it a good blast in the microwave (using your easy microwave recipes ) or gently reheat it on the hob.
If it's a bit thick, add a splash of water or beef broth. don't forget to stir it occasionally!
Variations: Shake It Up!
Feeling adventurous? Let's tweak this easy good chili recipe !
Dietary Adaptations : Want a veggie version? Easy peasy. Swap the ground beef for lentils or even crumbled Quorn.
Seasonal Ingredient Swaps : In the summer, add some fresh, chopped tomatoes or sweetcorn for a bit of sweetness.
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in a Bowl
Let's keep it real simple, yeah? this easy chili recipe has a good mix of protein, fibre, and vitamins. it can be quite high in sodium.
Portion control is your friend! plus, with the beans and veggies, you're getting a decent dose of goodness. it's a solid meal, especially after a long day! let's give the nutrition basic for each serving as an estimate: calories: 350, protein: 25g, fat: 15g, carbohydrates: 30g, fiber: 8g, sodium: 700mg
Honestly, this easy chili recipe is a total belter. it's proper comforting, easy to make, and totally customizable. get stuck in! you will find this is the best chili .
I swear that even your basic chili recipe crockpot version, would taste as good as my version! get ready to experience the best classic chili recipe
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this easy chili recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, like a good Sunday roast, chili often tastes even better the next day. The flavors have a chance to meld together, creating a richer, more complex taste. Just cool it completely, store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave when you're ready to serve. You might need to add a splash of broth or water if it thickens up too much.
How do I adjust the spice level in this easy chili?
Spice is nice, but not for everyone! The easiest way to control the heat is by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper. Start with a pinch, taste, and add more until you reach your desired level of zing. You can also use mild or hot chili seasoning. Remember, you can always add more spice, but it's harder to take it away, so go slow!
What are some good toppings for this easy chili recipe?
Toppings are where you can really personalize your chili and make it a proper treat! Shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option), chopped green onions, and slices of avocado are classic choices. For a bit of freshness, try a squeeze of lime juice or a sprinkle of cilantro. And if you're feeling adventurous, a swirl of hot sauce never hurts!
How long will this chili keep, and how should I store it?
This easy chili will keep well in the fridge for 3-4 days if stored properly in an airtight container. Make sure it's cooled completely before refrigerating. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. Just like that, you've got a ready-made meal perfect for a chilly evening!
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap out the ground beef for a can of lentils or crumbled plant-based ground for a hearty vegetarian version. You can also add extra beans, like pinto beans or kidney beans, to boost the protein and fiber content. Just make sure to use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep it fully vegetarian. It's a cracking way to get your five-a-day!
Is this easy chili recipe healthy? What are the nutritional considerations?
Chili can be a healthy and nutritious meal! It's packed with protein from the beef and beans, and fiber from the beans and vegetables. However, it can be high in sodium, so keep an eye on the salt content of your ingredients and taste as you go. You can also reduce the fat content by using lean ground beef and skipping the sour cream topping, swapping it for something lighter!
Weeknight Winner: Seriously Easy Chili Recipe Card
