This hearty freezer-friendly chili is packed with beans, ground meat, and spices, perfect for a cozy meal. It’s warm, filling, and super easy to make ahead!
I love whipping up a big batch and storing some for busy days. Just grab it from the freezer, heat it up, and you’re ready to go—no fuss, just tasty bites! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef is commonly used for its flavor and richness, but you could substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. I often go for ground turkey to make it a bit lighter!
Butternut Squash: This adds sweetness and texture. If you don’t have any, use sweet potatoes or pumpkin purée instead. Both will give a nice flavor and can change up the dish a bit.
Kidney Beans: Kidney beans are classic for chili, but black beans or pinto beans also work well. If you’re short on beans, you can double the squash for extra bulk.
Chili Powder: This gives the chili its base flavor. If you want a bit of heat, consider using chipotle chili powder. You can also experiment with different spice blends if you’re feeling adventurous!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Ground Meat for Chili?
Getting your ground meat cooked perfectly is key to a flavorful chili. Here’s how to do it step-by-step:
- Start with a hot pot. This helps to brown the meat instead of steaming it.
- Break the meat into chunks as it cooks. This ensures even cooking and browning.
- Once it’s browned, don’t skip draining the excess fat if you’re using fatty meats like ground beef.
- Mix the spices in when the meat is browned to really wake up those flavors!
Follow these tips, and you’ll have a delicious, hearty chili ready to freeze and enjoy anytime!
How to Make Freezer-Friendly Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth (or water)
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed (about 2 cups)
- 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 black pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This freezer-friendly chili takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 40-50 minutes to cook. So, in around an hour, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy or freeze for later!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until you can smell its delightful aroma.
2. Brown the Meat:
Next, add the ground beef (or turkey) to the pot. Break it up with a spoon and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink—this should take about 6-8 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off to keep the chili from becoming too greasy!
3. Mix in the Spices:
Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if you like some heat), and salt & pepper to taste. Let those spices cook with the meat for about a minute to bring out their flavors.
4. Add the Ingredients:
Now, add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir everything together until combined. Then, mix in the drained kidney beans and the cubed butternut squash, ensuring everything is well distributed.
5. Simmer the Chili:
Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally until the squash is tender and the chili thickens slightly. Make sure to taste it and adjust any seasoning as needed!
6. Cool and Freeze:
After cooking, let the chili cool slightly. Then, portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. This is perfect for meal prep and great for those busy days ahead!
7. Reheat and Serve:
When you’re ready to enjoy your chili, just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Serve it with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, and don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro for a burst of flavor!
Enjoy your hearty, flavorful chili that’s perfect to freeze and reheat for future meals!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, consider using lentils or plant-based meat alternatives!
How Long Does This Chili Last in the Freezer?
Your chili will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s stored in airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.
Can I Make This Chili Spicier?
Definitely! If you like it spicy, add more cayenne pepper or even some diced jalapeños when cooking. You can also top it with hot sauce when serving for extra heat!
What Can I Serve with This Chili?
This chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, rice, or a simple salad. You can also serve it with tortilla chips for a tasty crunch on the side!
