This One-Pot Chili is the perfect cozy dish! Packed with beans, ground meat, and spices, it warms you right up. Plus, it’s all made in one pot—less cleanup for you!
Honestly, who doesn’t love easy meals? I love making a big batch and enjoying it for lunch all week. Just add some cheese and you’re set—simple, tasty, and oh-so-comforting!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I often use ground beef for heartiness, but ground turkey is a great leaner choice. For a vegetarian option, consider using lentils or a mix of beans. Both options add protein and flavor!
Onions and Garlic: A medium onion adds sweetness, while garlic brings depth. If you’re in a hurry, you can use onion powder and garlic powder as alternatives—about 1 tsp each should work!
Kidney Beans: These are classic for chili, but black beans or pinto beans make good substitutes. Canned beans are convenient, but dried beans can be soaked and cooked for a fresher taste.
Diced Tomatoes: Using can tomatoes adds moisture and flavor. If you prefer fresh, about 2 cups of chopped tomatoes will do! For a different twist, try fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky flavor.
Spices: Chili powder is the star here, but feel free to mix it up! A dash of smoked paprika or chipotle powder amps up the smokiness. You can also adjust the cayenne for heat level preferences.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor in Your Chili?
Getting the perfect flavor in chili is all about layering ingredients and cooking slowly. To maximize flavor:
- Always sauté your onions and garlic first—this step builds a base of flavor.
- Add your spices after browning the meat. Toasting spices brings out their natural oils and enhances their flavor.
- Let the chili simmer for at least 20 minutes. This allows the beans and tomatoes to meld with the spices, creating a delicious harmony.
- Taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning to suit your preferences.
By layering flavors and allowing time for simmering, your chili will be rich and satisfying. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make One-Pot Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Protein: 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- Vegetables: 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Beans: 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- Tomatoes: 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- Liquid: 1 cup beef broth (or water)
- Tomato Product: 2 tbsp tomato paste
- Spices:
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking Oil: 1 tbsp olive oil
- Optional Garnishes: Shredded cheese, sour cream, and sliced green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This One-Pot Chili takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish, making it a great option for a quick weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Base:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become translucent. This adds a lovely flavor foundation.
2. Add Garlic:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute. You’ll know it’s ready when it smells fragrant—yum!
3. Brown the Meat:
Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the pot. Cook it for about 6-8 minutes, stirring and breaking it up with a spoon. Keep cooking until it’s browned and fully cooked. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it off for a leaner chili.
4. Toast the Spices:
Now, stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook this mixture for 1-2 minutes. This is a key step—cooking the spices enhances their flavors!
5. Combine Ingredients:
Add in the tomato paste, diced tomatoes (with their juices), kidney beans, and beef broth. Stir everything together well so that it’s nicely combined.
6. Simmer the Chili:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the chili thicken and lets all those delicious flavors meld together.
7. Final Taste Check:
After simmering, give your chili a taste. If you’d like, adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or spices depending on your flavor preference.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and sliced green onions, if desired. Pair it with cornbread or tortilla chips for a perfect meal!
This hearty, rich chili is perfect for a satisfying dinner and tastes even better the next day as leftovers. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Different Beans in This Chili?
Absolutely! While kidney beans are traditional, feel free to substitute with black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas. You can also mix different types for added texture and flavor!
What If I Don’t Have Beef Broth?
No problem! You can use water instead of beef broth. If you want extra flavor, try adding a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce. Alternatively, vegetable broth works great for a lighter chili.
Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
Yes! Just swap the ground beef with a mix of lentils or your favorite meat substitute, like crumbled tempeh or plant-based ground meat. Use vegetable broth and ensure your beans are fully vegetarian!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months! Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.