Quick Chili is a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners or game day gatherings. This recipe delivers robust flavors with minimal effort, making it a favorite for busy cooks who crave comfort food in a hurry.
Ingredients for Quick Chili
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced avocado
How to Make Quick Chili
Step 1: Brown the Beef
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
- Drain excess fat from the pot.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
- Add diced onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper to the pot with the cooked beef. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
Step 3: Add Beans and Tomatoes
- Stir in the drained and rinsed kidney beans and black beans.
- Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, and beef broth to the pot. Stir well to combine.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
- Add chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to evenly distribute the spices.
- Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together and the chili to thicken to your desired consistency.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the hot chili into bowls.
- Serve with optional toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, or diced avocado.
About the Main Ingredients
Ground Beef
Ground beef provides a hearty base for the chili, adding protein and richness to the dish. Opt for lean ground beef or your preferred variety.
Beans
Kidney beans and black beans contribute fiber and texture to the chili. They absorb the flavors of the spices and tomatoes, making each bite satisfying and nutritious.
Tomatoes and Tomato Sauce
Canned diced tomatoes and tomato sauce form the flavorful base of the chili. They provide acidity and sweetness, balancing the spices and adding depth to the dish.
Spices
Chili powder, ground cumin, and smoked paprika lend robust, smoky flavors to the chili. Adjust the amount of spices according to your taste preferences for a mild or spicier chili.
Quick Chili is a versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite toppings and served alongside cornbread or rice for a complete meal. Enjoy this easy-to-make recipe that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion!
