This One-Pot Chili is perfect for a cozy meal! It’s packed with beans, tomatoes, and spices that bring tons of flavor in just one pot—easy cleanup!
You can whip this up in no time and let it simmer while you relax. I love topping mine with cheese and sour cream for extra yum! Who’s ready for chili night?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef gives this chili a hearty texture. You can easily swap it out for ground turkey or even plant-based ground meat if you’re looking for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Kidney Beans: I love kidney beans for their firm texture. If you don’t have them, black beans or pinto beans work great too. Just remember to drain and rinse them to get rid of excess sodium.
Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes add moisture and flavor. If you prefer a smoother chili, use crushed tomatoes instead. You can also add fresh tomatoes if you have any on hand.
Spices: Chili powder is key for flavor. If you want a kick, increase the cayenne pepper, or mix in some chipotle powder for a smokier taste. Don’t have smoked paprika? Regular paprika will work fine!
How Do I Make Sure My Chili Has the Best Flavor?
Building layers of flavor is important. Start by sautéing the onions and garlic; this releases their natural sweetness. Then, don’t rush the seasoning. After browning the meat, mix in the spices and allow them to cook for a few minutes to bloom their flavors.
- Cook the meat until it’s well browned and add the spices to let them toast briefly.
- Simmer the chili uncovered, which helps concentrate the flavors. Stir occasionally!
- Taste the chili before serving. Adding a bit more salt or chili powder can really enhance the overall taste.
One-Pot Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 2 (15-ounce) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth (or water)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh jalapeño slices, for garnish (optional)
- Shredded cheddar cheese, for serving (optional)
- Sour cream, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This One-Pot Chili takes about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 30-45 minutes to simmer. In total, you can have a delicious and hearty meal ready in about an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This step makes the base of your chili flavorful!
2. Add Garlic and Ground Meat:
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Next, add the ground beef (or turkey). Cook it, breaking it up with a spoon, for about 6-8 minutes until it’s browned and cooked through. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off now.
3. Spice it Up:
Now it’s time to add flavor! Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cayenne pepper (if you want some heat), and season with salt and pepper. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes to let those spices bloom and fill your kitchen with amazing smells!
4. Combine Ingredients:
Pour in the diced tomatoes (including their juices), tomato paste, kidney beans, and beef broth. Mix everything well so that all the ingredients are combined evenly.
5. Simmer to Perfection:
Bring your chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help the chili thicken and the flavors meld together beautifully.
6. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
Before serving, taste your chili and adjust the seasoning if necessary—add more salt, pepper, or chili powder to suit your taste.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your chili hot, topped with fresh jalapeño slices if you enjoy a kick, and sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese or a dollop of sour cream if you’d like. This chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread or tortilla chips!
This One-Pot Chili is not only a time-saver but also a delicious, comforting meal that the whole family will love!
Can I Use Different Types of Beans in This Chili?
Absolutely! While kidney beans are traditional, you can substitute them with black beans, pinto beans, or even white beans. Just make sure to drain and rinse them before adding to the pot.
How Can I Make This Chili Spicier?
If you like your chili with a kick, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add diced fresh jalapeños or serranos when cooking. You might also consider adding a splash of hot sauce at the end to adjust the heat level to your liking!
Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
Sure! To make it vegetarian, simply replace the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or omit it altogether and increase the beans or add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added texture and flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simmer on the stove or microwave until heated through. You can also freeze it for longer storage; it keeps well for up to 3 months!
