This Easy Weeknight Chili is a tasty and filling dish that comes together quickly. It’s packed with ground meat, beans, and spices for a nice kick!
Perfect for busy nights, I just throw everything in one pot and let it simmer. Plus, the leftovers are even better the next day. Who doesn’t love chili days? 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Turkey: Ground beef is classic for chili, but turkey is a lighter option. You can also use plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian twist. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed!
Kidney Beans: These add great texture and protein. If you’re out of kidney beans, you can swap in black beans or pinto beans. They’ll still work beautifully in the dish.
Chili Powder: This spice blend packs a punch! You can use taco seasoning if you have it on hand. Just start with a little less and taste as you go, since it can be spicier.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes are easy, but fresh tomatoes work too, especially in summer. Just chop them up and add an extra splash of broth for moisture.
How Can I Make Sure the Chili is Packed with Flavor?
Flavor is key for a good chili! Sautéing the onions and garlic in oil first lays a foundation of taste. After browning the meat, toasting the spices is incredibly important. This brings out their full flavor.
- Cook onions on medium heat until soft. Don’t rush this step—5-7 minutes is ideal.
- After adding the spices, let them cook for a minute before adding liquids. This step enhances their aroma and depth.
- As it simmers, taste and adjust seasoning. Sometimes a pinch more salt or chili powder makes all the difference.
With these tips, your Easy Weeknight Chili will be a hit at the dinner table!
Easy Weeknight Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Shredded cheddar cheese, for garnish
- Sour cream, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Tortilla chips or cornbread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Weeknight Chili takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, so you can have a delicious dinner on the table in about 40 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once hot, add your chopped onion and sautĂ© for about 5 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. This is where the base flavor begins!
2. Adding Garlic and Meat:
Next, add in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it smells amazing. Then, add the ground beef or turkey to the pot. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks, stirring until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it off.
3. Toasting the Spices:
Now, stir in your chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook this mixture for 1 minute to toast the spices, bringing out their flavors. Your kitchen should be smelling great!
4. Adding Liquids:
Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth. Give everything a good stir to combine all those lovely ingredients.
5. Adding Beans and Simmering:
Next, toss in the kidney beans. Bring the chili to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat a bit and let it cook uncovered for 20-30 minutes. Stir occasionally until the chili thickens to your liking—this is the time to let all the flavors meld together.
6. Final Touches:
Taste your chili and adjust the seasoning if needed—maybe a pinch more salt or chili powder. Once it’s just right, it’s time to serve!
7. Serving:
Serve the chili hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Don’t forget the lime wedges and some tortilla chips or cornbread on the side for a delightful crunch!
Enjoy your comforting and flavorful Easy Weeknight Chili with family or friends! 🌶️
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Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Beef or Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great lean alternative. Just cook it in the same way, and it will work perfectly in this chili recipe.
Can I Freeze Leftover Chili?
Yes, chili freezes wonderfully! Let it cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
How Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the meat with additional beans (like black beans or pinto beans) and add some diced vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for more texture and flavor!
What Should I Serve with Chili?
Chili pairs well with cornbread, tortilla chips, or even over rice. You can also serve it with a fresh salad for a lighter side. Enjoy exploring different sides!
